The Pennsylvania State University
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
109 Nursing Sciences Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-2229
814-863-2925 Fax
The information in this version of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Student Handbook is subject
to change without notice. This handbook is not intended to nor does it contain all regulations that
relate to students.
Revised: 8/25/22
Table of Contents
WELCOME FROM THE DEAN 1
WELCOME FROM THE ASSOCIATE DEAN FOR UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION 2
COLLEGE OF NURSING CONTACT INFORMATION 3
COLLEGE OF NURSING 4
ACCREDITATION 5
COUNCILS AND COMMITTEES 5
END OF PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES 6
UNDERGRADUATE NURSING PROGRAM ACADEMIC POLICIES 7
Standards Of Conduct 7
Academic Integrity Statement 7
Student Ethical Behavior Guidelines 8
Class And Clinical Attendance Policy 13
Essential Functional Standards Required For Clinical Practice 13
Educational Equity 20
Disability Statement 20
Diversity Statement 20
Policy For Requesting Student Records 21
ACADEMIC ADVISING 22
Academic Adviser 22
Counseling And Psychological Services (Caps) 24
Additional Student Resources 25
UNDERGRADUATE NURSING PROGRAM CURRICULUM 26
Estimated Additional Cost For Nursing Students 26
Nursing Academic Requirements/Degree Audit 27
Math Policy For Pre-Licensure Students 28
Nursing Course Requirements And Course Descriptions 32
Clinical Capstone 35
Student Evaluation of Preceptor 36
Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI) 37
ATI Placement in the SCND BSN Curriculum 38
ATI Point Structure 40
ATI Plan – Getting Started with ATI 41
ExamSoft Policy 45
Student Responsibilities for ExamSoft Use 45
Faculty Responsibilities for ExamSoft Use 46
Testing Session Procedures 46
Course And Clinical Scheduling 48
Undergraduate Program Enrollment 48
Re-Enrollment/Re-Entry/Delay in Program Progression Policy 48
Prior Learning and Transfer Credit 50
COVID-19 STATEMENT 51
CLINICAL COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS 52
Timeline for Year One 54
Timeline for Year Two 56
Process If Not Compliant 58
Compliance Requirements (CR) #1-15 59
CR #1: Student Notification of Program Requirements Form 59
CR #2: Clinical Experiences Acknowledgment of Risk 59
CR #3: Student Consent for Release of Information to Authorized Third Parties 59
CR #4: Confidentiality, Safe Environment and Fiction Contract for Nursing Simulation 59
CR #5: Initial Health Exam Form 59
CR #6: Personal Health Insurance 59
CR #7: Liability/Malpractice Insurance 60
CR #8: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification 60
CR #9 - #11: Clearance Checks 61
CR #12: Student Data Form 65
CR #13: Influenza (Flu) Immunization 65
CR #14: Drug Testing 66
CR #15: Consent, License and Release Agreement 67
CR #16: Covid-19 Vaccination card 67
Compliance Requirement Form Examples 68
Communicable Disease Update 81
CLINICAL POLICIES 82
Precluded Students From Clinical Institution 82
Patient Care 82
Clinical Safety Policy 82
Impaired Student Nurse Policy 83
Return To Clinical 90
Student Pregnancy Policy 90
Transportation To And From Clinical Agencies Policy 90
Student Dress Code Policy 91
Social Media Policy 93
Use Of Electronic Devices In Clinical Policy 94
Clinical Cancellation Guidelines 95
Simulation Laboratory Practice Option 95
Clinical Failure Policy 95
Guidelines For Using The Clinical Evaluation Tool And Remediation Form 96
ACADEMIC SUCCESS 97
Definition of Grades 97
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON) Grading Scale 97
Nursing Course Examination Rounding Policy 97
Academic Success Program 98
Academic Success Plan 100
Academic Progression 100
Student Academic Difficulty 101
Plan for Early Identification of Academic Difficulty and Follow-up 101
Academic Grievance Procedures 102
Grade Mediation And Adjudication 102
NURSING OPPORTUNITIES 104
Protocol For Students Who Seek Outside Employment 104
Penn State Alumni Association / Ross and Carol Nese College Of Nursing Alumni Society 104
PROFESSIONAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT 105
National Student Nurses’ Association 105
Student Nurses’ Association Of Penn State (SNAPS) 105
SIGMA THETA TAU INTERNATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY OF NURSING 107
Beta Sigma Chapter Membership 107
Sigma Theta Tau Achievement Award 107
SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS 108
GRADUATING STUDENTS: NCLEX EXAMINATION and RN LICENSURE 109
Information For Graduating Students 109
Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosure by State 109
Licensure Process 111
Licensure – Pennsylvania 111
Licensure - States Other Than Pennsylvania 111
Confirmation 111
Helpful Tips and Notes 111
RESOURCES 114
Links To Other Important Information 114
INDEX 117
Clinical Performance Evaluation Remediation Forms 117
NURS 230 Student Clinical Performance Evaluation 117
NURS 251 Student Clinical Performance Evaluation 123
300 LEVEL Student Clinical Performance Evaluation 129
400 LEVEL Student Clinical Performance Evaluation 135
Academic Success Plan 141
Academic Success Plan Process – Course Exam Grade <77% 141
Clinical Success Plan Process – Clinical Skills 145
Academic Success Plan - General 147
1
WELCOME FROM THE DEAN
Welcome to the Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at the Penn State
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing! Your choice of the nursing major represents a significant
commitment on your part, and we hope that you find your studies personally satisfying.
Penn State is a world-class university, with world-class resources. I encourage you to take advantage
of the many learning opportunities provided by our Penn State community. Know that our faculty and
staff stand ready to help you succeed and to cheer you on.
Best wishes for a successful program of study in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing. The
future of nursing will be in your capable hands---make us Penn State proud!
Be Well,
Laurie Badzek, LLM, JD, MS, RN, FNAP, FAAN
Dean and Professor
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
2
WELCOME FROM THE ASSOCIATE DEAN
FOR UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION
Congratulations and on behalf of the entire faculty, welcome to the Second Degree Nursing program.
We are pleased that you have chosen to pursue nursing and are here to support you as you begin your
journey. Nursing is a rewarding profession with countless opportunities and you will affect many
lives. Your commitment to investing the time and effort in the academically rigorous curriculum will
develop your clinical competence and leadership skills.
In addition to your classroom learning, you will have the opportunity to engage in rich and varied
clinical experiences including multiple hospitals, community facilities and simulation that will
provide a sound educational foundation. Highly qualified masters and doctoral prepared nursing
faculty members are ready to guide your learning experiences.
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing and the University have assembled numerous resources
to help you gain the most from your time here. Based on the experience of prior students, we have
compiled this handbook to help you access and use those resources; faculty and the advising staff of
the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing can provide additional assistance.
Nursing can provide a lifetime of rewards and we are committed to educating you in the best way
possible. Your commitment to Penn State will serve you well and we hope that your experience will
be all that you hoped.
Wishing you a wonderful Penn State Experience.
Raymonde Brown, PhD, RN, CNE
Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
3
COLLEGE OF NURSING CONTACT INFORMATION
Dean Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education
Dr. Laurie Badzek Dr. Raymonde Brown
201 Nursing Sciences Building 106 Nursing Sciences Building
University Park, PA 16802 University Park, PA 16802
814-863-0245 (Phone) 814-863-2235 (Phone)
814-865-3779 (Fax) 814-863-2295 (Fax)
Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Nursing Education at the Commonwealth Campuses
Dr. Michael Evans
017 Dawson Building
Penn State Scranton
120 Ridge View Drive
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2652 (Phone)
570-963-2651 (Fax)
Commonwealth Campuses for Second Degree include: Altoona and Harrisburg
Campus Coordinators for Nursing Program/s:
Altoona: Harrisburg:
Dr. Suzanne Kuhn Dr. Lisa Albert
3000 Ivyside Drive W314 Olmsted Building
107 Sheetz Health Center 777 W. Harrisburg Pike
Altoona, PA 16601 Middletown, PA 17057
814-949-5114/814-949-5423 (Phone) 717-948-6514 (Phone)
814-949-5425 (Fax) 717-948-6402 (Fax)
Campus Staff:
Altoona: Harrisburg:
Penny Hoover Kathy Lesher
814-949-5423 717-948-6735
Amy Case
814-949-3519
4
COLLEGE OF NURSING
MISSION
WE ARE creating nurse leaders to transform lives and health around the world.
Revised: April 2020
VISION
WE WILL redesign the landscape of health and nursing science through education, research,
innovation, practice, and service.
Revised: April 2020
VALUES
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing values align with the Penn State Values and are our
shared ideals about how people should act toward one another, the standards to which we hold
ourselves, and those beliefs we find important. While aspirational in nature, the Penn State Values
articulate nursing's ethical principles and should guide our actions and decisions as members of the
Penn State community.
Integrity: We act with integrity and honesty in accordance with the highest academic,
professional, and ethical standards.
Respect: We respect and honor the dignity of each person, embrace civil discourse, and foster a
diverse and inclusive community.
Responsibility: We act responsibly, and we are accountable for our decisions, actions, and their
consequences.
Discovery: We seek and create new knowledge and understanding, and foster creativity and
innovation, for the benefit of our communities, society, and the environment.
Excellence: We strive for excellence in all our endeavors as individuals, an institution, and a
leader in higher education.
Community: We work together for the betterment of our University, the communities we serve,
and the world.
Align with Penn State Values April 2020
Revised Summer 2020
5
ACCREDITATION
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing
Practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at The Pennsylvania State University
are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750,
Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791. http://www.ccneaccreditation.org
COUNCILS AND COMMITTEES
Students are represented on the following Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Councils and
Committees:
BSN Council
RN to BSN Council
Equity and Inclusion Committee
Graduate Affairs Committee
Undergraduate Affairs Committee
Student representatives are appointed for each committee.
6
END OF PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
The graduate nurse will:
• Integrate theory and knowledge from the sciences, social sciences, humanities, and nursing
as a foundation for nursing practice
• Apply the nursing process to manage care of individuals, families, and populations with
respect for diversity in a variety of healthcare settings
• Facilitate inter-professional and intra-professional communication and collaboration to
improve practice, minimize risks, and optimize health outcomes
• Critically analyze research studies and apply evidence-based findings to advance clinical
practice
• Demonstrate the inherent professional values and behaviors in the delivery of individual,
families, and population-centered care
• Participate in activities that support lifelong learning, professional growth and the
advancement of the profession
• Integrate information management and patient care technology to improve quality and
safety across a variety of healthcare settings
• Apply the competencies of leadership, quality improvement and patient safety to improve
health outcomes for individuals, families, and populations
• Integrate knowledge of current healthcare policy, including financial and regulatory policy
to influence delivery of care
Revised: 02/04
Reviewed: 2014
Revised Spring 2016: Effective Fall 2016
7
UNDERGRADUATE NURSING PROGRAM ACADEMIC POLICIES
STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
The University is a community that promotes learning; any behaviors that are inconsistent with that
goal are unacceptable. Irresponsible behaviors, including alcohol or drug abuse and the use of
violence against people or property, undermine the educational climate by threatening the physical
and mental health of members of the community. Individual misconduct reflects upon the practices,
values, integrity and reputation of the nursing profession.
A nursing student is expected to maintain a high standard of behavior by adhering to Penn State’s
Code of Conduct and respecting the rights of others.
Violation of the Student Code of Conduct may result in suspension or immediate dismissal from the
academic program.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY STATEMENT
Academic integrity is the pursuit of scholarly activity free from fraud and deceptions and is an
educational objective of this institution. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to,
cheating, plagiarizing, fabricating of information or citations, facilitating acts of academic dishonesty
by others, having unauthorized possession of examination, making copies in any manner of exams or
papers, submitting work of another person or work previously used without informing the instructor,
or tampering with the academic work of other students. At the beginning of each course, it is the
responsibility of the instructor to provide a statement clarifying the application of academic integrity
criteria to that course. A student charged with academic dishonesty will be given oral or written
notice of the charge by the instructor. If students believe they have been falsely accused, they should
seek redress through normal discussion with the instructor, department head, dean, or campus
executive officer. If the instructor believes that the infraction is sufficiently serious to warrant
referral of the case to the Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response, or if the instructor
will award a final grade of “F” in the course because of the infraction, the student and instructor will
be afforded formal due process (review Academic Integrity information, policy and procedure on the
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing website at here).
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STUDENT ETHICAL BEHAVIOR GUIDELINES
Purpose: To establish guidelines and standards of ethical behavior for Penn State’s Ross and Carol
Nese of Nursing (Nese CON) students. Nese CON students are expected to display behaviors that
reflect the American Nursing Associations’ Code of Ethics for Nurses *, the Penn State Code of
Student Conduct, and core values of the Nese CON (https://www.nursing.psu.edu/student-
handbooks/). Students will be held accountable for exhibiting Penn State University’s core values
integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence, and community (core values and definitions
of terms can be found at https://universityethics.psu.edu/penn-state-values).
Procedure:
A. Student ethical behavior guidelines will be established by the Ross and Carol Nese College of
Nursing (Nese CON) faculty and approved by Graduate and Undergraduate Affairs
Committees.
1. The specific guidelines are as follows:
i. Students will treat everyone with dignity and respect (this includes peers,
faculty, patients, and others)
ii. Students will employ communication skills (verbal, non-verbal, written) that
respect the dignity and worth of others
iii. Students will be accountable and on time for classroom and clinical
experiences. They will submit all assignments on time and as requested by
faculty
iv. Students will comply with policies and restrictions of clinical partners,
affiliated facilities, and the nursing program (e.g., dress code, cell phone
policy, parking)
v. Students will submit program clearances and compliances as requested and
within the established time-frame
vi. Students will honor confidentiality and privacy of patients, faculty, staff, and
peers (e.g., social media posts, in class discussion)
vii. Students will practice integrity and honesty in actions and communications that
avoid deceit, deception, lying, and any attempt to derail or mislead others
viii. Students will use nonviolent communication while discussing facilities and
resolving conflicts with faculty and peers. Students are encouraged to reference
the resources available in the student handbooks. Students will avoid
defamation of clinical partners, faculty, and peers
ix. Any form of verbal, psychological, stalking, and physical intimidation or
aggression will not be tolerated
x. Students will respect the diversity of others
xi. Substance abuse and intoxication (classroom, clinical, Nese CON affiliated
activities) will not be tolerated and will be addressed through appropriate
channels
xii. Students should be proud of their status as Penn State nursing students and use
these privileges appropriately. Students will not provide care or represent
themselves as a student nurse unless in a scheduled student clinical experience.
xiii. Students will comply with Penn State Code of Conduct. Violations of the PSU
code will be reported to the University Office of Student Accountability and
Conflict Response. These violations will also be subject to the above Nese
CON warnings up to and including dismissal from the program.
9
B. Guidelines will be shared with students in handbooks.
C. Students in all Nese CON programs will acknowledge receipt of student handbooks.
D. If a student displays behavior that is not congruent with the guidelines, the following steps
will be followed:
1. The person(s) who observed the behavior will contact a faculty member in the
program where the student is assigned.
2. The faculty member will review information provided, and will consult with the
program director or coordinator. Other faculty/staff who are directly involved may
also be consulted.
i. Criminal violations will be reported immediately to the appropriate authorities.
These violations will also be subject to the above Nese CON warnings up to
and including dismissal from the program.
ii. Violations of the PSU code will be reported to the University Office of Student
Accountability and Conflict Response. These violations will also be subject to
the above Nese CON warnings up to and including dismissal from the
program.
iii. Students may be referred to counseling or other services that can be found at
https://redfolder.psu.edu/.
3. The director/coordinator and faculty will determine whether the incident is a violation
of the student professional behavior guidelines.
i. If no violation is determined, the incident will not be documented in the file or
starfish.
ii. If incident is deemed a violation, the level of the violation must be determined.
Levels of violations are as follows:
a. First violation: Student will receive a written warning. The
warning will include documentation that will be placed in the
student file and purged when the student graduates.
b. Second Violation: Student will receive a second warning. The
campus coordinator will consult with a second campus
coordinator and /or the assistant or associate Dean prior to
meeting with the student. The warning will include
documentation that will be placed in the student file and purged
when the student graduates
c. Third Violation: Student will receive a third warning. This will
be reviewed by the campus coordinator and assistant or
associate dean for consideration of dismissal from the program.
The warning will include documentation that will be placed in
the student file that will remain after graduation.
iii. NOTE: Violations are not required to progress through the above sequence.
Serious violations may necessitate immediate dismissal from the program.
This will be determined by faculty, program director/coordinator after
consultation with the assistant and/or associate dean. This action must be
approved by the Nese CON dean.
10
iv. For the 2021/2022 academic year, all warnings would be run through an ad
hoc committee that will include 3 members appointed by the graduate and
undergraduate affairs committees.
4. The ethical behavior documentation form will be completed as follows:
i. A description of the Incident will be documented on the Student Professional
Behavior Documentation Form. The form will be completed as follows:
1. The student name and ID number will be documented.
2. Description of Violation: Faculty will complete the description of the
violation. Pertinent information such as dates, times, places will be
included. The faculty will also document the level of the violation.
3. Documentation of Meeting: Faculty will meet with the student and
document information about the meeting. Faculty will communicate
the level of the violation with the student at that time.
a. More than one faculty may be present.
b. The program director/coordinator is not required to be present,
but they must sign the form.
c. The student will be referred to counseling services and or other
resources found at https://redfolder.psu.edu/.
4. The faculty will meet after the meeting to review the meeting with the
student and make a final determination about the outcome.
ii. Outcome: The outcome of the meeting will be documented. Brief comments
will be placed in the appropriate area of form.
iii. Signatures: All faculty who are present at the meeting will sign the form.
iv. Student Comments: The student will be offered the opportunity to comment.
The student will be asked to sign the form. In the event that the student
refuses, faculty will write “refused” in the signature line.
E. Appeal: Students may appeal the violation. Steps are as follows:
1. Within 10 business days of receiving the violation and documentation form, the
student may appeal the decision. The letter must specify why the student believes this
was not a violation.
2. The student will send a letter via hard copy or email to the program coordinator.
3. The program coordinator/director will review the student appeal letter and will consult
with the Associate Dean.
4. The program coordinator/director will provide a written response to the student within
5 business days of receiving the student’s letter of appeal. The letter will indicate
whether the violation documentation will be upheld or purged from the student record.
This decision is final.
*Approved by the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Faculty Council 5/3/2021
*American Nurses Association Code of Ethics for Nurses
Provision 1: The nurse practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity,
11
worth, and unique attributes of every person.
Provision 2: The nurse’s primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual,
family, group, community, or population.
Provision 3: The nurse promotes, advocates for, and protects the rights, health, and
safety of the patient.
Provision 4: The nurse has authority, accountability and responsibility for nursing
practice; makes decisions; and takes action consistent with the obligation
to provide optimal patient care.
Provision 5: The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the
responsibility to promote health and safety, preserve wholeness of
character and integrity, maintain competence, and continue personal and
professional growth.
Provision 6: The nurse, through individual and collective effort, establishes, maintains,
and improves the ethical environment of the work setting and conditions
of employment that are conducive to safe, quality health care.
Provision 7: The nurse, in all roles and settings, advances the profession through
research and scholarly inquiry, professional standards development, and
the generation of both nursing and health policy.
Provision 8: The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public to
protect human rights, promote health diplomacy, and reduce health
disparities.
Provision 9: The profession of nursing, collectively through its professional
organizations, must articulate nursing values, maintain the integrity of the
profession, and integrate principles of social justice into nursing and
health policy.
Source: American Nurses Association. (2015). Code of ethics with interpretative statements. Silver
Spring, MD: Author. Retrieved from
http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/EthicsStandards/CodeofEthicsforNurses/Code-
ofEthics-For-Nurses.html
12
Penn State University
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
Student Ethical Behavior Documentation Form
Student Name and ID:_________________________________________________________
Description of Violation (include date):
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Documentation of Meeting:
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Outcome (Please provide brief comments in appropriate row):
Unfounded
First Violation
Second Violation
Third Violation
Further Violations will result in further disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from
the nursing major. (Program dismissal will be documented in Starfish)
Faculty Signature:__________________________________ Date:____________________
Faculty Signature:__________________________________ Date:____________________
Program Coordinator’s Signature:______________________ Date:____________________
Student Comments:
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Student’s Signature:_________________________________ Date:____________________
13
CLASS AND CLINICAL ATTENDANCE POLICY
Attendance is essential. The student is expected to attend all classes and to willingly participate in
class discussions. Attendance for each class will be taken and missing classes may be reflected in
your grade. The lecture objectives for each week shall be reviewed and the assigned readings
completed prior to the lecture for that material. An unexcused clinical absence will result in failure
of the course. Examples of unexcused clinical absences include vacation, medical and dental
appointments and job interviews.
Approved BSN Council 12/2017
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONAL STANDARDS REQUIRED FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE
I. POLICY
The intent of this Policy is to provide a description and guidelines of expected behavioral,
communication, sensory, and physical requirements necessary to provide safe care to individuals,
families and communities in a variety of settings.
II. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE AND INTENTION
A. Students are expected to provide safe care in all domains to patients they encounter during
clinical experiences and to maintain fitness for duty throughout all clinical experiences.
Students must be prepared to provide care to patients in a rapidly paced, physically and
emotionally demanding environment.
B. Students admitted to the nursing program must successfully perform the essential functions
established for the clinical experience with or without reasonable accommodations, per the
Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (2008). Students with disabilities are
encouraged to consult with the Penn State University Student Disability Resources
http://equity.psu.edu/student-disability-resources prior to beginning the clinical experience
and to review the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing policy on disability in the student
handbook.
C. Per the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing, "in addition to character and academic
qualifications, students desirous of becoming nurses must have the necessary behavioral,
communication, sensory and physical requirements to be able to practice nursing as it is
defined in the law." "He/she must have adequate cognitive, sensory and psychomotor
functioning to effectively implement nursing care." Additionally, "a student must be able to
tolerate physically taxing activities and exercise restraint during stressful situations in order
to meet the demands of the profession." (Memo from the PA State Board of Nursing, Factors
which Impact on Nursing Education Program Policies, February 28, 2001.) Students who
meet the criteria for standard nursing practice with or without reasonable accommodations
will not be excluded on the basis of disability.
D. Students enrolled in the Nese CON at the undergraduate level engage in clinical rotations and
training on the campus of The University and at various types of healthcare facilities,
including, but not limited to University skills or simulation laboratories, hospitals, private
practice offices, long-term care facilities, clinics, schools and community agencies.
14
III. DEFINITIONS:
A. Essential Functions: The following are the functional domains and abilities, as well as
examples of those abilities, necessary to perform the essential functions established for the
clinical experience. Supportive evaluation criteria from the student clinical evaluation tool are
provided. Please note, descriptions of abilities and examples are not exhaustive, but only serve
as samples.
15
Functional Domain
And Clinical
Evaluation Tool
Correlates
Necessary Abilities
Examples
Cognitive
1.a 1.b
1.c
1.f (prioritizing)
1.g (educational
needs)
1.h (discharge
planning)
2.a (skills)
2.b (implements)
2.d (meds)
2.e (evaluation)
2.f (safety)
2.g (complex)
2.h 2.i (process and
complex)
3.a (theory & EBP)
3.b (resources /
documents)
3.d (process)
4.e (accurate
interpretation)
5.c (evaluation /
outcomes)
6.a (timely records)
6.e & f (respond to
tech alerts, use in
process)
7j & k (prepared, on
time)
• Demonstrate progressive ability to
assess and evaluate patient status and
care
• Read, understand, and interpret
documents
• Problem solve, perform required
mathematical calculations, evaluate
numerical data
• Evaluate unfolding complex
information in a rapidly changing
environment
• Students must be able to formulate and
enact plans of care to meet patient
needs
•
Master nursing skills and
describe the rationale for
use of interventions, and
expected outcomes.
Perform accurate
mathematical calculations
• Demonstrate appropriate
priority setting and critical
thinking. Basic
understanding of statistical
significance in reading
research reports relevant to
nursing practice. Basic
enumeration in research
results: means, medians,
modes
• Calculate safe dosages,
maintenance fluids, drip
rates, absolute neutrophil
count, body mass index,
pain and other assessment
scales, body surface area,
growth and developmental
assessments, intake and
output, burn assessment,
pulse pressure
• Calculate cardiac rates
(manual counting < 1
minute) estimation from
data on EKG, rhythm
strip, including rate,
regularity, PR intervals,
RR intervals, and changes
from isoelectric line
(estimating mV changes
for evaluation criteria).
Medication supply
estimation
Communication*
1.c (compassion)
1.d (privacy, dignity)
3.c (respects
preferences)
• Engage in professional, goal
directed communication with
respect, sensitivity, honesty, and
fairness
•
Accurately follow verbal
and written instructions.
Share pertinent
information with Joint
Commission (JCAHO)
16
7.f (civility, kindness,
dignity, respect)
7.g (professionalism)
• Demonstrate respect for diversity as
it relates to communication styles
regulatory guidelines
• Demonstrate appropriate
use of therapeutic
communication skills.
• Utilize appropriate verbal
and non-verbal language
and responses
Behavioral/Emotional
Stability*
1.c (compassion)
2.c (complies)
2.f (prevent
unethical)
4.a (cooperative
working
relationships)
4.b (listens &
communicates,
diversity)
4.d (inclusive, team)
4.g (communication
negotiate, conflict
resolution)
5.a (guidance,
criticism)
5.b (reflect/ personal
growth)
6.a (comply,
professional
communication)
6.d (ethical data
security)
7.a (responsible for
self, no blaming)
7.b (comply)
7.c,d,e (honest,
ethical, flexible, self-
control)
7.g (professional /
boundaries)
7.h (alert & attentive)
7.i (reliable,
dependable)
7.j & k (prepared, on
time)
• Students must consistently
demonstrate the emotional and
behavioral skills required to meet all
professional responsibilities related
to the care of individuals, families,
and communities. Empathy is a
requisite quality which must be
demonstrated by students
• Students must possess the emotional
maturity to engage in professional
interactions with faculty, staff,
professionals, the public, and other
students under a wide range of
circumstances, including highly
stressful situations
• Students must have the emotional
stability to cope and function in
stressful environments. The ability
to be flexible and adaptive in
demanding situations is imperative
• Students must demonstrate a
willingness and ability to examine
and adapt his/her behavior when
behavior interferes with productive
and harmonious professional
relationships
• Students must follow all University,
Ross and Carol Nese College of
Nursing, and clinical agency
policies
•
Demonstrate integrity,
adaptability, honesty, and
flexibility. Respect patient
rights. Maintain all
professional standards and
codes of ethics. Follow all
federal and state laws
related to the practice of
nursing
• Consistently demonstrate
mastery over affective
responses
• Students must demonstrate
appropriate responses to
receiving feedback from
faculty and or staff
regarding clinical
performance and level of
functioning
Motor Skills
• Students must possess the needed
motor skills, physical
•
Examples of needed motor
skills include the ability to
17
1.c (provide care
effectively)
2. a (skills safe,
accurate, no
omission)
2. d (med admin)
6. b (skill in care
technologies)
6. e (use & respond to
technology)
7.h (alert & attentive)
abilities/strength, mobility,
flexibility, coordination, and
dexterity to perform all patient care
activities in all healthcare settings in
a safe timeframe
• Students must be able to sustain all
necessary motor skills for the
duration of the clinical experience
perform CPR, support and
transfer patients. Manual
dexterity sufficient to
carry out procedures and
operate medical
equipment. Prepare and
administer medications
Interpersonal Skills*
Refer to
Communication &
Behavioral/Emotional
Criteria
• Students must demonstrate the
ability to initiate and sustain
positive, professional relationships
with a diverse group of patients,
families, community members,
peers, and professionals under a
wide range of circumstances,
including stressful, demanding
situations
• Students must effectively and
appropriately express thoughts and
feelings and be able to effectively
manage conflictual interactions
•
Respond appropriately to
individuals and/or groups
experiencing physical or
psychological distress
• Provide appropriate care to
individuals or groups of
different
cultures/ethnicity.
Establish and maintain
positive rapport with
others
• Respond to conflict in a
mature, professional
manner
Sensory
1.a (accurate &
thorough assess)
2.a (perform skills
accurately)
2.g (monitor patient
status and report to
RN)
4.b (listen carefully,
ask questions)
4.e (identify & report
abnormal findings
accurately)
4.g (demonstrate
effective
communication)
• Students must demonstrate the
ability to collect data about the
patient through visual, auditory, and
tactile senses
• Students must possess the ability to
accurately assess and interpret
verbal and non-verbal forms of
communication
• They must be able to correctly
interpret information gained through
physical examination and
observation
•
Ability to interpret non-
verbal communication
such as facial expression,
sounds, and body
movement
• Correctly perform physical
health assessment
procedures. Identify
accurately heart, lung, and
bowel sounds. Respond to
cues for intervention, such
as patient requests or
change in health status,
and monitor alarms
18
IV. PROCEDURE FOR INTERVENTION RELATED TO ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONAL
STANDARDS AND CLINICAL PERFORMANCE
A. Identification
1. Faculty or on-site clinical supervisors who determine there is a potential or clear concern
that the student is unable to maintain the provision of safe care to patients, or that the
student’s actions or behaviors are detrimental to the functioning of the healthcare
environment, shall remove the student from the clinical area.
2. Depending on the reason for removal, appropriate University resources will be consulted.
If an immediate concern is identified, the student shall be transported to the appropriate
emergency department for evaluation/treatment or returned to the Ross and Carol Nese
College of Nursing (Nese CON) for an immediate meeting with the Campus Coordinator
for Nursing Program/s. If the Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s is unavailable,
a meeting will be held within one business day with an appropriate administrative
representative of Nese CON.
3. Transportation of the student from the clinical site to the Nese CON or healthcare facility
shall be determined by the resources available to the specific Nese CON campus policy
and resources. Possible resources may include transportation by ambulance, public
transportation, or family. Faculty will consult with Nese CON administrator to evaluate
the safest mode of transportation for the student in light of student behavior and condition.
4. Written evidence of the student’s inability to complete the essential functions will be
reviewed with the student, and the student will be given an opportunity to respond to the
information.
5. A student’s unwillingness to follow the Essential Functional Standards policy may be
cause for dismissal from the nursing program.
6. Upon satisfactory resolution of the observed functional impairment demonstrated during
the clinical experience, the student may be given consideration to return to the clinical
site, if mutually agreed upon by the faculty and clinical site.
B. Evaluation Referral and Treatment
1. Documentation of the student’s ability and appropriateness for clinical work may be
necessary prior to the student’s return to clinical experiences. The Nese CON Associate
Dean, Assistant Dean or Clinical Facility may request an evaluation conducted by the
appropriate professional or agency (e.g., Physical or Mental Health Professional, Student
Disability Resources, Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response, etc.) to
document the student’s ability to return to the clinical site and enact the required essential
functions. The cost of the evaluation is the responsibility of the student.
2. The student must sign a release of information to enable the evaluator to inform the
appropriate Associate or Assistant Dean of the student’s ability to return to the clinical site
and render safe care to patients. Nese CON will provide a copy of this policy and
expectations of the student in the clinical site to the identified provider in order to facilitate
an appropriate evaluation of the student.
3. Students in need of treatment beyond the initial evaluation may be referred to an
appropriate psychological and counseling campus resource, an outside mental or physical
health provider, or appropriate agency or office. Costs for treatment services are the
responsibility of the student.
19
4. Failure to comply with the requested assessment, recommended treatment and/or
monitoring may result in dismissal from the nursing program.
C. Return to Clinical Practice
1. In the event that the student has been referred for assessment and/or treatment, a written
evaluation by the service provider, which includes an endorsement of the student’s ability
to enact the essential functions, must be received by the appropriate Nese CON Associate
or Assistant Dean prior to the student’s return.
2. All medical information will be treated as confidential and maintained according to Penn
State University policy and relevant State and Federal regulations. It is only with the
student’s expressed written consent that information will be shared between Nese CON
and service provider. No information shall be shared with Nese CON faculty or personnel
unless there is a clear need to know.
3. The student and Nese CON representative(s) will review and sign a return to clinical
practice agreement, which is reflective of the student’s individual needs.
4. Nese CON and/or clinical facility have the right to place conditions on the student’s return
to clinical experiences.
5. Nese CON faculty will provide direct, on-going supervision of the student’s ability to
meet the expected essential functions upon the student’s return to practice. Appropriate
oversight will be maintained by Nese CON.
6. Additional behaviors indicative of unsafe clinical practice may be cause for dismissal
from the nursing program.
D. Appeals
1. Student may appeal any aspect of the application of this policy by sending a written
statement of the basis for the appeal to the appropriate Associate or Assistant Dean of the
Nese CON, within ten (10) days after the action which is being appealed. The Student’s
written appeal shall succinctly set forth the basis for the appeal, with supporting
documentation, as appropriate.
2. Within a reasonable period of time after the filing of an appeal, the appropriate Associate
or Assistant Dean of the Nese CON shall convene a meeting with the Student in an
attempt to amicably resolve the matter. If no resolution can be reached, the appropriate
Associate or Assistant Dean of the Nese CON shall convene a hearing committee,
consisting of three (3) faculty members from the Nese CON, one of whom shall serve as
committee chair. The hearing shall be convened as soon as practicable. The following
rules shall apply to the hearing:
a. The purpose of the hearing is one of fact finding.
b. The committee shall have full authority to conduct the hearing in a manner that is fair,
efficient, and respectful.
c. Formal rules of evidence do not apply, but irrelevant, immaterial or unduly repetitious
evidence may be excluded at the discretion of the committee.
d. In light of the nature and spirit of the proceeding, representation by legal counsel is
prohibited.
e. The hearing shall be closed, meaning that no one beyond the persons involved in the
hearing will be admitted.
f. Participants shall include the Student and the Supervisor who observed or was
involved in the incident in question. Others with knowledge of the circumstances in
question may be permitted to participate with the permission of the chair of the
committee.
20
g. The Supervisor will address the committee first, followed by the Student. The
committee may ask questions of the Supervisor and the Student. The Supervisor or
faculty member and the Student may also ask questions of each other in a polite and
respectful manner.
h. Requests for additional information may be made by the committee to the faculty
member and the Student.
i. At the conclusion of the hearing, the committee shall dismiss the participants and
deliberate in private. The committee members shall then vote on the outcome of the
hearing, with each member having one vote. The chair of the committee will inform
the Student of committee’s decision within one business day after the hearing.
j. The decision of the committee shall be final.
Approved Undergraduate Affairs: 1/30/2017
EDUCATIONAL EQUITY
Penn State takes great pride to foster a diverse and inclusive environment for students, faculty, and
staff. Acts of intolerance, discrimination, harassment, and/or incivility due to age, ancestry, color,
disability, gender, national origin, race, religious belief, sexual orientation, or veteran status are not
tolerated and can be reported through Educational Equity at the Report Bias site:
http://equity.psu.edu/reportbias/statement
Approved: Fall 2017
DISABILITY STATEMENT
Penn State welcomes students with disabilities into the University's educational programs. Every
Penn State campus has an office for students with disabilities. The Office of Student Disability
Resources (SDR) website provides contact information for every Penn State campus. For further
information, please visit the Student Disability Resources website: http://equity.psu.edu/student-
disability-resources.
In order to receive consideration for reasonable accommodations, you must contact the appropriate
disability services office at the campus where you are officially enrolled, participate in an intake
interview, and provide documentation: http://equity.psu.edu/student-disability-resources/guidelines. If
the documentation supports your request for reasonable accommodations, your campus’s SDR will
provide you with an accommodation letter. Please share this letter with your instructors and discuss
the accommodations with them as early in your courses as possible. You must follow this process for
every semester that you request accommodations.
University Policy Confirmed by faculty 06/04
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
The faculty and staff of the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing value and are committed to
fostering diversity in the classroom, the University, and the profession. By respecting differences in
culture, age, gender, gender expression, race, ethnicity, national origin, differing abilities, sexual
orientation, and religious affiliation, we enrich the learning environment, improve the practice and
21
profession of Nursing, and enhance personal creativity and professional growth.
Approved by Faculty: 2/15/2010
POLICY FOR REQUESTING STUDENT RECORDS
Applies to all records retained by the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON).
1. All students are to retain a copy of all compliance records prior to online submission to American
DataBank. All compliance documentation is stored through American DataBank. The Nese CON
does not retain hard copies of students’ compliance documentation.
2. All students have the right to review (but not copy) all records maintained by the Nese CON.
3. The Nese CON will provide a copy of records such as evaluations and remediation plans upon
request by the student.
Approved Spring 2012
22
ACADEMIC ADVISING
ACADEMIC ADVISER
The advisers in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing look forward to building a strong
relationship with our students.
All students will be assigned a Faculty Adviser who should be consulted with questions or concerns
about courses, clinical experiences, and/or career options.
Request for Change of Faculty Adviser: Students have the option to request a change in Faculty
Adviser by submitting a written request to the Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s.
Consult with your assigned adviser to learn how best to communicate with him/her throughout the
year. Some options may include:
• Open Walk-In Hours: Walk-in Hours are used for quick questions and are on a first-come,
first-served basis. Your adviser will notify you if/when open Walk-In Hours are offered.
• Schedule an appointment: An appointment allows time to discuss more in-depth issues such
as transitioning to college, minors or certificates, academic difficulty, etc. You can schedule
an in-person or phone appointment with your adviser. Check with yourcampus Nursing office
to find out if you may schedule an appointment online through Starfish.
• Send an email or call your adviser directly: This is an option if you have a quick question.
Please remember that your adviser may be in meetings, working with other students, or out of
the office and might not be able to respond immediately. Allow your adviser time to return
your email or phone call. If you are sending multiple emails or calling frequently, it may be
best to schedule an in-person appointment.
To get the most out of your advising sessions:
1. Know your responsibilities:
a. Schedule regular appointments or make regular contact with your adviser throughout the
semester. Be on time and prepared for appointments. Be considerate by calling ahead to
cancel, cancel online, or reschedule appointments, when needed.
b. Prepare for your advising appointments with thoughtful questions. Participate actively in
the session.
c. Check your email daily to be aware of important notices and communications from the
University, the College, and your adviser. Respond to emails professionally and in a
timely manner.
d. Become knowledgeable about University and College programs, policies and procedures.
Ask questions if you do not understand an issue or have a specific concern. Please refer to
23
the Undergraduate Advising Handbook (http://advising.psu.edu) for more specific
information.
e. Understand your Suggested Academic Plan and degree audit, keep track of your progress
and make revisions as needed.
f. Be empowered to take responsibility for your choices related to your educational goals
and grow from these choices, actions, and outcomes. We are here to advise; It is your
responsibility to decide.
g. Work to clarify your personal values, goals, interests and abilities. Discuss these openly
with your adviser to facilitate individualized advising sessions to support you in your
unique path.
h. Take care of yourself by practicing good wellness habits regarding physical activity,
nutrition, sleep patterns, stress management, financial literacy, and safe social and sexual
interactions. Consult with us to learn about available resources and services that will
enhance your self-care.
2. Know your Adviser’s responsibilities:
a. Maintain posted Walk-In Hours and provide time for scheduling in-person meetings.
b. Respond to e-mail and phone messages in a timely manner.
c. Effectively communicate the curriculum and graduation requirements for the Nursing
program. Help you monitor your progression towards degree completion. Provide insight
into appropriate course sequencing.
d. Clearly explain University and College policies relating to your course of study.
e. Guide and support you in your exploration of personal, career, and academic goals; your
assessment of your own interests and abilities; and your development of short- and long-
term goals.
f. Help you develop an understanding of the purpose and goals of higher education, your
roles and opportunities in the University community, and the connection between your
University experience and your career and personal goals.
g. Provide accurate information on the University resources available to help you with
academic, career and life planning. Refer you to support services to help you address
academic or non-academic needs that arise.
h. Maintain confidentiality of your records and our conversations as required by law.
i. Assist you with developing wellness habits to practice effective self-care.
24
COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES (CAPS)
The CAPS staff specialize in working with undergraduate and graduate students to help address their
concerns in a caring and supportive environment. Through group therapy, individual counseling,
crisis intervention, and psychiatric services, CAPS can help students resolve personal concerns that
may interfere with their academic progress, social development, and satisfaction at Penn State. Some
of the more common concerns include anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships (friends,
roommates, or family); sexual identity; lack of motivation or difficulty relaxing, concentrating or
studying; eating disorders; sexual assault and sexual abuse recovery; and uncertainties about personal
values and beliefs.
For all students: For general information, please visit the "Nursing Student Mental Health Guide" at
http://www.cnaclasses.org/nursing-student-mental-health/.
For those students who are attending a Commonwealth Campus, please refer to the following:
Altoona:
Visit http://www.altoona.psu.edu/counseling for more information.
Or for immediate crisis information, see the following information:
Emergencies – Call 911
CAPS Main Phone Number – 814-949-5540
CAPS Location – Health and Wellness Center, Sheetz Family Health Center
Harrisburg:
Visit http://harrisburg.psu.edu/counseling-services for more information.
Or for immediate crisis information, see the following information:
Emergencies – Call 911
CAPS Main Phone Number – 717-948-6025
CAPS Location – Suite 205, Student Enrichment Center
25
ADDITIONAL STUDENT RESOURCES
Below are resources provided for Penn State students, including a brief description of the resource
and why a student may utilize it. Resource offices vary campus-to-campus; refer to your Penn State
campus website to determine which resources are offered at your campus and for more information
on what resources entail.
Career Services:
Career Services is committed to offering a comprehensive array of programs and services that support
and facilitate career development for all students. Programs and resources are provided to assist
students and alumni in crystallizing and specifying career goals, expanding knowledge of career
alternatives, understanding effective decision-making, and acquiring appropriate strategies and skills
to carry out the process
The Learning Center:
Penn State Learning is a multi-disciplinary academic assistance program staffed by undergraduate
peer tutors, scholars who are content experts in their respective fields, and professional and
administrative staff members. Seek Penn State Learning for individual and group tutoring on various
subjects, including Accounting, Economics, Languages, Mathematics, Philosophy, Sciences,
Statistics, and Writing. Subjects vary by campus.
Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity:
The Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity (CSGD) provides a comprehensive range of education,
information, and advocacy services to students, faculty, staff, and alumni. The Center works to create
and maintain an open, safer, and inclusive environment honoring gender and sexual diversity.
Multicultural Resource Center (MRC):
The Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) provides individual counseling and educational services
for undergraduate multicultural students at University Park and assists students in meeting the
challenges associated with education and attaining a degree at a major research institution. MRC
counselors work with students on a variety of issues, and the staff is dedicated to helping students
succeed and graduate from Penn State.
Student Disability Resources:
The Office of Student Disability Resources provides a welcoming, encouraging, and empowering
environment for students with disabilities to ensure equal access, full participation and reasonable
accommodations for their academic pursuits. The Student Disability Resources team is committed
and ready to assist students with disabilities to reach their academic goals.
Student Care and Advocacy:
Student Care and Advocacy is a multi-faceted office that strives to provide students with the
necessary tools and support to make difficult situations more manageable. The work of the Student
Care and Advocacy office includes: championing student and family crisis support efforts during a
time of personal crisis, tragedy, emergencies; and coordinating responses to at-risk student incidents,
missing students, troublesome student conduct, campus student threat incidents, student and family
emergencies, and family and student deaths.
26
UNDERGRADUATE NURSING PROGRAM CURRICULUM
ESTIMATED ADDITIONAL COST FOR NURSING STUDENTS
Students in the undergraduate nursing program will incur expenses including uniform and clinical
items, compliance expenses, expenses related to course work, and transportation to clinical sites.
These expenses are in addition to costs borne by all students such as tuition and fees, room and board,
textbooks and non-NURS classroom expenses or materials, and other living expenses. (Note that
University costs may vary by campus.)
Two expenses that are required but vary greatly in price are:
• a car, and
• a laptop which meets the system requirements for ATI and ExamSoft (NOT a Chromebook,
iPad, tablet, or phone as they do not support Nursing software packages)
Estimated Cost sheet for incoming Undergraduate SCND Nursing Students 2021-22
ITEM
1
st
year
2
nd
year
Uniform and Clinical Items (one time)
$524.00
-
Estimated Compliance Expenses
$343.85
$152.85
Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI)*
$1,310.00
$1,265.00
ExamSoft ($30.25/semester)**
$60.50
$30.25
TOTAL
$1,965.35
$1,297.10
NOTE: Estimated costs are based on information available as of May 2021 and are subject to
change. Total does not include the cost of a laptop or a car (or the expenses associated
with a car).
*The total ATI Complete Package fee is determined by resources included at the time the student
enters the program and is spread out over two years. The first year's payment includes a one-time
account set up fee ($30) Fees are subject to change.
**Spring payment for ExamSoft covers summer access – no additional fee for summer.
Summer 2022
27
NURSING ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS/DEGREE AUDIT
The Academic Requirements is how the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing tracks progress
towards graduation. Your Academic Requirements can be accessed through LionPATH:
(http://launch.lionpath.psu.edu/). Log-in to LionPATH and go to the Student Center. In the
“Academics” section of your Student Center, choose “Academic Requirements” in the drop-down
menu and click “>>”
Students are responsible for monitoring their progress toward completing their program. Consult with
your Faculty Adviser for support in reviewing and understanding your degree requirements as listed
in this document.
When viewed as a pdf file (click on the green “view report as pdf” at the top), the top shows your
name, cumulative GPA, assigned adviser, program of study and requirement term. Next, is a section
called “In Progress Courses”, listing courses currently in progress or scheduled courses for the
current and upcoming semesters.
The rest of the document lists University and Major Requirements, divided into categorical sections.
Each section lists either specific courses or a minimum required credit count needed to complete that
category. Sections that are completed will collapse, showing just the blue heading bar. Sections that
have requirements remaining will stay open until all requirements in that portion are met or in
progress.
First, University-level requirements are listed; all baccalaureate degree-seeking students at Penn State
must fulfill these requirements. Examples of University-level requirements include Writing Across
the Curriculum (W), First Year Seminar, and United States and International Cultures (US and IL).
Next, the Academic Requirements tool shows your progress towards completing the General
Education Requirements, listing the number of credits needed in Writing and Speaking (GWS),
Quantification (GQ), Natural Sciences (GN), Arts (GA), Humanities (GH), Social and Behavioral
Sciences (GS), and Health and Wellness (GHW). Specific major-required courses that also fulfill
General Education requirements will be listed in their appropriate section.
Following this, you will find the requirements for the major. These courses must be completed with a
“C” or better to count towards degree requirements.
Finally, the Academic Requirements tool shows the “Electives and Total” section, indicating your
total credits counting towards your degree and courses used towards General Electives. To obtain a
BSN degree, you must complete at least 120 credits. Keep in mind, this section states a minimum
required number of general electives credits, but you may need more to reach the 120 minimum total
credits required for graduation. This section is followed by a list of courses not used to satisfy degree
requirements in your major. These courses are not included in the total credit count towards your
degree. They may include extra electives or courses that you have repeated.
28
MATH POLICY FOR PRE-LICENSURE STUDENTS
Concurrent with enrollment in the first clinical nursing course, when medication administration is
introduced, students will be provided instruction and learning materials on the math competencies
needed for safe medication administration and the use of common abbreviations. Students are
expected to utilize these materials to understand, practice and master drug dosage calculations that
are needed to safely administer medications. Competency in safe drug administration will be assessed
throughout the curriculum with math questions on all examinations in addition to the mandatory
testing.
Initial Math Competency Assessment:
1. Initial math competency assessment will be done at the beginning of NURS 230 in the Second
Degree B.S.N. Program. The comprehensive examination will include drug dosage calculations
and abbreviations.
a. Passing is defined as 90% and above; failure is defined as less than 90%.
b. The student will have a maximum of three attempts to pass the examination with a grade of
90%.
c. A first examination failure (less than 90%) requires mandatory remediation before subsequent
examination scheduling, which will be determined by the faculty.
d. A second examination failure (less than 90%) will result in an F (P/F- rating) on the clinical
evaluation tool, and the student will receive an academic difficulty notification.
e. The second examination failure also requires mandatory completion of all recommended
remediation, in addition to seeking direction from the instructor, course coordinator, and/or
adviser on any particular problem areas.
f. Scheduling of the third examination will be determined by the faculty.
g. A third examination failure (less than 90%) constitutes a course clinical failure. The student
would receive an F (P/F - rating) on the clinical evaluation tool for the drug calculation
clinical objective and thus fail the course with an “F” based on not meeting all clinical
objectives.
Subsequent Math Competency Assessment:
Subsequent math competency assessment involves mandatory testing and incorporation of math
questions in all examinations in every clinical course.
1. Mandatory Testing (related to clinical objective):
Testing will occur in the following courses:
• SCND DEG—NURS 306; NURS 405B
a. Passing is defined as 90% and above; failure is defined as less than 90%.
b. The student will have a maximum of three attempts to pass the examination with a grade
of 90%.
c. A first examination failure (less than 90%) requires mandatory remediation before second
examination scheduling, which will be determined by the faculty and occur before mid-
course evaluations.
29
d. The second examination failure also requires mandatory completion of a remediation plan,
in addition to seeking direction from the instructor, course coordinator, and/or adviser on
any particular problem areas.
e. A second examination failure (less than 90%) will result in an F (P/F- rating) on the
clinical evaluation tool for the drug calculation clinical objective at mid-course and
subsequent notification that the student is in academic difficulty.
f. Scheduling of the third examination will be determined by the faculty and should be
following mid-course evaluations.
g. A third examination failure (less than 90%) will constitute a course clinical failure. The
student will receive an F (P/F - rating) on the clinical evaluation tool for the drug
calculation clinical objective and thus fail the course with an “F” based on not meeting all
clinical objectives in the final evaluation.
2. Faculty guidelines for mandatory testing:
a. Examination is to be a minimum of 15 questions.
b. Test questions can be any combination of formats (e.g. multiple choice, show work with fill in
the blank).
c. Exams may be faculty made or derived from ATI Dosage Calculations 3.0. Note: Only
exams 1 and 2 may be taken from ATI Dosage Calculations 3.0.
d. All testing should be administered within a timeframe that allows the student to withdraw
from the course if the proficiency level has not been met.
e. Calculator use is determined by the faculty.
3. Mandatory Math Questions in all examinations in clinical courses:
a. Math questions are to be embedded in all theory examinations.
b. Test questions should include both drug calculations and abbreviations.
c. Math questions are to be administered in every examination, including the final.
d. Test questions can be a combination of formats (multiple choice, show work with fill in the
blank).
e. Calculator use is determined by the faculty.
Continuous Monitoring:
All faculty should continuously monitor the drug calculation and safe medication administration of
students to assure the delivery of safe and competent care in clinical practice. Any testing in clinical
courses not designated for mandatory testing is at the discretion of the faculty member and follows the
mandatory testing guidelines. ATI Dosage Calculations 3.0 may be used for remediation and practice.
Approved: 8/26/2013
Editorial Changes: 9/2013
Effective Date: 1/2014 (Spring 2014)
Revised Spring 2019
Revised Summer 2021
30
SUGGESTED ACADEMIC PLAN for Second Degree in Nursing (NURS/SCND)
for students at Penn State Altoona and Penn State Harrisburg
Effective Fall 2021: NEW Curriculum & Integrative Studies. See IMPORTANT NOTES below.
Semester l (Fall)
Credits
Semester 2 (Spring)
Credits
NURS 250 (US) Professional Role Dev I: Intro to
Professional Issues in Nursing Practice and
Nursing Informatics
2
NURS 350 Professional Role Development II:
Ethics, Legal and Genetic Issues
2
NURS 225 Pathophysiology
3
NURS 301 Nursing Care of the Adult Client
Requiring Medical-Surgical Intervention
4
NURS 230 Introduction to the Fundamentals of
Nursing
4
NURS 310 Therapeutic Nursing Care of the Older
Adult Client in a Variety of Settings
3
NURS 305 Introduction to Pharmacological
Concepts
3
NURS 415 (US;IL) Community and Family
Health Nursing
4
NURS 251 Health Assessment
3
NURS 405A Nursing Care of the Adult Client
with Complex Health Problems: Part A
4
Total Credits:
15
Total Credits:
17
Semester 3 (Summer)
Credits
Semester 4 (Fall)
Credits
NURS 320 Nursing Care of the Childbearing
Family and Gynecological Client
3
NURS 450A Professional Role Development III:
Leadership and Management
2
NURS 306 Nursing Care of Children and
Adolescents
3
NURS 450B Professional Role Development III:
Clinical Capstone
3
NURS 420 Mental Health Nursing
4
NURS 495 Nursing study in Specialized Setting
3
NURS 405B Nursing Care of the Adult Client
with Complex Health Problems: Part B
4
NURS 200W Principles of Nursing Research and
Evidence-Based Practice
3
NURS 302 Clinical Judgement in Nursing (MED-
SURG Immersion)
1
NURS 480 Preparation for Nursing Licensure
Exam (NCLEX Prep)
2
Total Credits:
14
Total Credits:
14
Overall Total Credits
60
See IMPORTANT NOTES below See IMPORTANT NOTES below See IMPORTANT NOTES below
IMPORTANT NOTES
1. All courses require a quality grade of C or better. All NURS courses define “C” as 75% or higher.
a) See the Nese College of Nursing Grading Scale and Academic Progression Policy in the Second
Degree BSN Nursing Handbook at https://www.nursing.psu.edu/student-handbooks/
b) The SCND curriculum is sequential and prescribed. All courses must be successfully completed with
a grade of “C” or higher in order to progress to the next semester.
2. Course sequencing may vary by campus due to clinical site availability.
31
3. “US, IL”, and “US; IL” are attributes used to designate courses that satisfy University United
States/International Cultures requirements. “W” is the attribute used to designate courses that satisfy
University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement. These University requirements are integrated into
the Nursing curriculum (NURS 250, NURS 415, and NURS 200W) and do not require additional courses
to be taken.
4. NURS 495 is a clinical immersion practicum for in-depth study and practice in a clinical specialty area of
choice under a clinical preceptor. Students will work with a faculty member to identify the practicum site.
Revised Fall 2021
32
NURSING COURSE REQUIREMENTS AND COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Required and Supporting Nursing Courses and their descriptions are listed on the subsequent pages, organized
into their specific category.
Please note: all prerequisite, required nursing courses, and Nursing Supporting courses must be successfully
completed with a grade of a “C” or higher.
While required courses and their prerequisites are outlined here, you should always consult with your Academic
Adviser for guidance when planning and registering for courses, as each student’s situation is unique.
Please use “Class Search” to determine course offerings through your specific campus. Nursing Supporting
Courses may not be offered at all campus locations, and they may not be offered every semester. Some electives
are only offered through Continuing Education and/or World Campus.
Key to Semester Hour Designation
4 SH (2,2) = 4 Semester Hours (2 semester hours in lecture, 2 semester hours in lab/clinical)
Each semester hour in lecture = 50 minutes contact
Each semester hour in lab/clinical = 3 hours (or 180 minutes) contact
Therefore, this 4 credit course would meet for two (2) 50-minute lecture periods and six hours of clinical (2 x 3
hours) per week over a semester.
REQUIRED NURSING COURSES - All prerequisite courses must be successfully completed with a “C” or
higher.
NURS 200W Principles of Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice – 3 SH (3,0) Introduction to
principles and methods of nursing research and application of research evidence to practice. Prerequisite: STAT
200 or STAT 250, NURS 225
NURS 225 Pathophysiology – 3 SH (3,0) Designed to explore the illness component of health with emphasis
on the pathophysiological and psychosocial aspects.
Prerequisite: NURS 250, NURS 251
NURS 230 Introduction to the Fundamentals of Nursing – 4 SH (2,2) Introduction to the nursing process,
clinical competencies and psychosocial skills.
Prerequisite: NURS 250, NURS 251
NURS 250 (US) Professional Role Dev I: Intro to Professional Issues in Nursing Practice and Nursing
Informatics – 2 SH (2,0) Introduction to professional nursing practice and health-related issues emphasizing
application of nursing informatics.
Prerequisite: BIOL 161, BIOL 163
33
NURS 251 Health Assessment – 3 SH (2,1) Designed to broaden the student's knowledge and skills in health
assessment and physical examination across the lifespan.
Effective: Spring 2011
Prerequisite: BIOL 161, BIOL 163
NURS 301 Nursing Care of the Adult Client Requiring Medical-Surgical Intervention – 4 SH (2,2)
Therapeutic nursing care of the adult client in a variety of primarily medical-surgical settings.
Prerequisite: NURS 225, NURS 230
NURS 302 Clinical Judgement in Nursing 1 SH (0,1) 45 hour faculty supervised clinical experience that focuses
on the care of the adult medical surgical patient population
Prerequisite: NURS 225; NURS 301; NURS 305
NURS 305 Introduction to Pharmacological Concepts – 3 SH (3,0) Study of basic concepts of pharmacology
and relevant nursing implications.
Prerequisite: NURS 225, NURS 230 ; or approval of program
NURS 306 Nursing Care of Children and Adolescents – 3 SH (2,1) Common health problems and nursing
intervention for children and adolescents.
Prerequisite: NURS 305
NURS 310 Therapeutic Nursing Care of the Older Adult Client in a Variety of Settings – 3 SH (2,1)
Nursing concerns and intervention in promoting the health of the older adult.
Prerequisite: NURS 225, NURS 230
NURS 320 Nursing Care of the Childbearing Family and Gynecological Client – 3 SH (2,1) Therapeutic
nursing care of the childbearing family and gynecological client.
Prerequisite: NURS 305
NURS 350 Professional Role Development II: Ethics, Legal and Genetic Issues – 2 SH (2,0) The study of
the interaction of ethical, legal, and genetic concepts as they apply to current healthcare practice.
Prerequisite: NURS 225; NURS 230
NURS 405A Nursing Care of the Adult Client with Complex Health Problems: Part A – 4 SH (2,2) In-
depth study of care of patients with acute and complex health problems, utilizing evidence based practice.
Prerequisite: NURS 305
NURS 405B Nursing Care of the Adult Client with Complex Health Problems: Part B – 4 SH (2,2) In-
depth study of care of patients with acute and complex health problems, utilizing evidence based practice.
Prerequisite: NURS 305
NURS 415 (US;IL) Community and Family Health Nursing – 4 SH (2,2) Therapeutic nursing care and health
promotion concepts to families, groups and populations in the community.
Prerequisite: NURS 305
NURS 420 Mental Health Nursing – 4 SH (2,2) Emphasizes clinical application of mental health theory in
nursing care of patients with acute and chronic mental health problems.
Prerequisite: NURS 305
34
NURS 450A Professional Role Development III: Leadership and Management – 2 SH (2,0) Study of
leadership roles and various styles of nursing management and their implications for the professional nurse.
Prerequisite: NURS 305
NURS 450B Professional Role Development III: Clinical Capstone – 3 SH (0,3) 400 level clinical capstone
course that emphasizes the integration and application of theory and evidence based practice. Prerequisite:
NURS 305; all 300-level required NURS courses must be completed
NURS 495 Nursing study in Specialized Setting (1-12) Designed to provide student with in-depth study and
practice in clinical specialty area of choice.
Prerequisite: all 300-level required NURS courses must be completed
NURS 480 Preparation for Nursing Licensure Exam - 2(SH 2,0) Preparation for NCLEX® Nursing
Licensure Exam: Critical Thinking and Exam Preparation Strategies
Prerequisite: NURS 405A; Concurrent: NURS 450B
35
CLINICAL CAPSTONE
NURS 450B, clinical capstone course, is designed to expand the scope of nursing practice of 400 level nursing
students.
• Student clinical experiences and simulation activities focuses on leadership and management
• The clinical capstone course occurs in the semester of graduation and a guidelines packet is provided at that
time
• Students are contacted via listserv sent to students’ PSU email at least one semester prior to capstone
regarding their top three choices of clinical sites
• Students are notified of their clinical capstone placement once confirmed by capstone faculty
• Student outcomes are designed to enhance comprehension and synthesis of professional nursing
responsibilities
• Clinical experiences are scheduled with selected nurse preceptors primarily in acute care settings with
emphasis on the role of the nurse in providing care within a healthcare setting
The nurse preceptor is an accomplished, experienced nursing professional who extends to an aspiring
person, within the context of a one-on-one relationship, advice, teaching, sponsorship, guidance, and
assistance towards establishment in his/her chosen profession.
Learning objectives for the clinical capstone experience include:
1. Utilize therapeutic communication in the health care setting to enhance patient care
2. Synthesize the process of a multidisciplinary approach to enhance patient care
3. Apply critical thinking skills to prioritize care management
4. Demonstrate safety and accountability with all aspects of patient care
5. Describe aspects of evidence based practice with patient diagnoses and care
6. Provide culturally competent care—physically, emotionally, and spiritually
Revised Spring 2022
37
ASSESSMENT TECHNOLOGIES INSTITUTE (ATI)
ATI (Assessment Technologies Institute®) Complete Partnership is a technology-based educational
assessment and testing program. The program focuses on helping students succeed in the development of
essential skills needed to excel in the classroom throughout the program and ultimately pass the licensure
examination (NCLEX). All graduates must pass the NCLEX in order to practice nursing after graduation.
Today’s nursing students are diverse with different learning styles and needs. ATI Nursing Education’s learning
systems are designed to offer a variety of learning methods. ATI information and services are available to
students throughout their academic career and one year after graduation.
ATI secure testing will be implemented either in the classroom with a faculty proctor or using ATI’s proctoring
package Proctorio.: Students will be required to meet all computer requirements for Proctorio.
The following is a summary of the ATI testing that students are exposed to across the nursing curriculum.
NOTE: To provide students with the best technology based education assessment package and contain cost,
each year the Nese CON negotiates with ATI to establish a set fee for the new cohort of students. That fee is
divided across year one and two and is charged to the students’ tuition account, which is an eligible cost
covered by financial aid.
All ATI materials and resources are available to students at the beginning of their second year. Additional
materials are available for purchase through ATI as well as numerous resources that are available on the ATI
website at no additional cost.
The cost associated with the ATI Complete Package bundle (Review books, skills modules, handouts, tutorials,
quiz banks, adaptive quizzing, remediation, virtual simulations, electronic health record, practice and proctored
online assessments, and the NCLEX live review and virtual-ATIa) is the student’s responsibility, and all
students are required to purchase the package and utilize the resources throughout the nursing program as
detailed in each course. Students will have access to the majority of their ATI bundle for one year post
graduation.
ATI assessment testing results are a designated portion of the course grade, identifies content areas needing
further study for mastery of the content and supports successful completion of the licensure examination
(NCLEX).
Annual ATI Fees are NOT refundable after the first day of classes of the fall semester.
Revised Summer 2020;
Nov 2021
38
ATI Placement in the SCND BSN Curriculum
GENERAL INFORMATION
Course Specific Proctored Exams
• Administered end of course during regularly scheduled class time.
o Exceptions: Critical Thinking Entrance and Exit Exams
• 40-95 minutes in length
Targeted Assessments
• Divided between NURS 301, NURS 310 and NURS 405A with rationales enabled (which gives
immediate feedback and explains why a response is correct or incorrect)
• Faculty determines when testing occurs relative to course content
• Approximately 30 questions
RN Comprehensive Predictor
• RN Comprehensive Predictor, which takes approximately 180 minutes, is administered twice in the final
semester
o 2
nd
Fall, mid-course – (basis of focused ATI LIVE REVIEW)
o 2
nd
Fall – After remediation and ATI LIVE REVIEW
o 180 questions
ATI Testing Placement in the Curriculum
NURS 225:
• Incorporate Pharmacology tutorials as appropriate to link Pathophysiology and Pharmacology content
• No examination is administered
NURS 230:
• Incorporate tutorials included in the ATI package
• Nurse Logic – 2.0 and Learning Systems
• Use more tutorials that are included in the ATI package
• Use the Dosage Calculation Tutorials
NURS 250:
• Self-Assessment (Non-Proctored)
• Nurse Logic – 2.0 and Learning Systems
• Critical Thinking Entrance (Proctored) – Fall – No later than Week 3 (40 minutes)
NURS 251:
• Incorporate Skills Modules
• Health Assess
• No examination is administered
NURS 305:
• Incorporate Pharmacology tutorials
• Pharmacology (Proctored) – Fall – End of course (70 minutes)
NURS 301:
39
• Targeted Assessments
o Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Perioperative
o Faculty determines when testing occurs relative to course content
o Fundamentals (Proctored) – Spring - End of course (70 minutes)
NURS 310:
• Targeted Assessments
o Endocrine, Neurosensory/Musculoskeletal, Renal/Urinary
o Faculty determines when testing occurs relative to course content
NURS 405A:
• Targeted Assessments
o Fluid/Electrolyte/Acid Base, Immune
o Gastrointestinal
NURS 415:
• Community Health (Proctored) – Spring –End of course (65 minutes)
NURS 306:
• Nursing Care of Children (Proctored) – Summer – End of course (70 minutes)
NURS 320:
• Maternal Newborn (Proctored) – Summer – End of course (70 minutes)
NURS 405B:
• Adult Medical Surgical (Proctored) – Summer – End of course (100 minutes)
NURS 420:
• Mental Health (Proctored) – Summer – End of course (70 minutes)
NURS 200W:
• Critical Thinking Exit (Proctored) – 2
nd
Fall – (40 minutes)
NURS 450A:
• Leadership and Management (Proctored) – 2
nd
Fall – End of course (70 minutes)
NURS 450B:
• RN Comprehensive Predictor (Form A-Proctored) – 2
nd
Fall – Mid-course (180 minutes)
o Information is used to develop ATI Live (NCLEX) review course and the students’ individual
plan of study used for remediation prior to the final RN Comprehensive Predictor (Form B)
• ATI NCLEX Live Review – 2
nd
Fall – About Week 11 (Three 8-hour days)
• RN Comprehensive Predictor (Form B-Proctored) – After ATI NCLEX Live Review (180
minutes)
NURS 495:
• Nutrition (Proctored) –2
nd
Fall - (70 Minutes)
• Pharmacology (Proctored) – 2nd Fall – Re-take (70 minutes)
40
Revised 11/20/17
ATI Point Structure
Online Practice
A Assessment
with rationales
on (10 points if
completed and
submitted on
time)
Required
learning activity
(Decided by the
course
coordinator, 20
points if activity
completed and
submitted on
time)
Online Practice
B Assessment
with at least a
75%. (10 points
if completed and
submitted on
time and 10
points for 75%)
Proficiency Level
on ATI
Proctored
Assessment
Points
Awarded for
Achievement
on ATI
Proctored
Assessment
TOTAL POINTS
POSSIBLE
OUT OF 100
10
20
20
Proficiency Level
2 or 3 on ATI
Proctored
Assessment
50
100
10
20
20
Proficiency Level
1 or Below Level
1 on ATI
Proctored
Assessment
25
75
Students will receive a ZERO for late assignments unless prior arrangements are made with the course coordinator.
All late assignments must be completed in order to fulfill course ATI requirements.
BSN Council 4/29/19
41
ATI Plan – Getting Started with ATI
42
43
44
45
EXAMSOFT POLICY
Overview: The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON) has implemented ExamSoft as
the testing platform for all nursing courses. ExamSoft is a secure, computer based testing environment
providing students with an experience similar to the NCLEX-RN exam using a software download
known as Examplify. In addition to these testing benefits, ExamSoft provides students and faculty with
detailed analysis of the student’s performance by identifying individual and class strengths and
opportunities related to specific content areas. This performance data can be used by students to guide
their studying and examination preparation within a specific course and across the entire nursing
program.
Student Responsibilities for ExamSoft Use
1. Students are expected to have access to a fully functioning laptop computer meeting the minimal
system requirements for ExamSoft/Examplify for all testing sessions in nursing courses. The
minimal system requirements for computer devices can be found in the Canvas course or on
ExamSoft’s website.
Note: Chromebooks and iPads are not compatible with ExamSoft.
2. PRIOR to the start of each semester, students are expected to purchase ExamSoft by the
designated due date using the instructions provided by the Nese CON. This information will be
communicated via PSU email. Students who do not purchase ExamSoft by the designated due
date will be unable to test. The inability to test may result in a 0 on all examinations until
ExamSoft is purchased. If a student has an issue with purchasing or utilizing ExamSoft, it is the
responsibility of the student to directly notify and discuss the circumstance with the campus
coordinator by the date when ExamSoft is to be purchased.
3. Students are required to complete the download of each examination in Examplify as instructed
and come to the testing session prepared to begin testing. A due date and instructions for
downloading an examination will be provided by the faculty via an email sent to all students in
the course. Students who experience technical difficulties while attempting to download the
examination are to notify the instructor via email as soon as the problem is identified and before
the end of the download period.
4. Students who do not complete the download of an examination during the designated time frame
will receive a 5% deduction in the examination grade for any examination not downloaded
within the download window provided by the faculty. The grade earned on the examination will
be calculated after the 5% grade deduction has been applied. (For example, if a student scored
80/100 on an examination, 5 points will be deducted for failure to download and the student
would earn a 75/100 for the examination.) If a student fails to download an exam within the
specified time frame, the student may be provided with an opportunity to download the exam at
the testing session or be provided with an alternative method of testing at the discretion of the
faculty. The 5% deduction will still apply. Make-up examinations will not be administered for
failure to download an exam.
5. Students are expected to have a functioning computer for all examinations. Students who
experience technical difficulties after successful download of an examination are expected to
notify the instructor via email as soon as the problem is identified. These instances will be
handled on a case by case basis by the instructor administering the examination. If persistent
computer issues prevent the student from using their own device beyond one exam 5% may be
deducted from the examination score.
6. Students are expected to follow all pre-testing computer set up instructions including, but not
46
limited to, closing all applications and de-activating all anti-virus software. These practices will
assure optimal performance of Examplify during the testing session.
7. Students are expected to arrive to the testing session with a fully charged computer device. Each
classroom will have differing levels of access to electrical outlets. Electrical outlets can be used
as available.
8. Students are expected to upload their completed examinations immediately upon completion of
testing.
9. Students with testing accommodations are expected to provide this documentation to the course
coordinator at the beginning of EACH course. If this documentation is not available to the
student at the start of a course, students must provide documentation to the course coordinator as
soon as possible and at least 4 working days PRIOR to the first examination when
accommodations are needed or as directed by the individual campus office of Disability
Services.
10. All students are expected to follow the University’s Academic Integrity policy as stated in the
BSN/Second Degree Student handbooks.
11. All students are expected to follow the Testing Session Procedure as stated in the BSN/Second
Degree Student handbooks.
Faculty Responsibilities for ExamSoft Use
1. All faculty are expected to utilize ExamSoft for testing within nursing courses.
2. Faculty will proctor all examinations involving ExamSoft.
3. All faculty are expected to have access to their personal Examplify account via a computer
device during all testing sessions.
4. All faculty are expected to provide the examination to students in Examplify for downloading
at least 48 hours PRIOR to the testing session, and should require that all downloads be
completed by students at least 24 business hours prior to the testing session.
5. All faculty must select the option to send a reminder for the download end time to all students
in the exam set up. This will generate an ExamSoft email. In addition, faculty are expected to
send an email to all students in the course notifying them of the examination download time
frame.
6. All faculty are expected to provide an emergency plan for technical problems with individual
devices reported by students.
7. All faculty are expected to confirm that a completed examination has been uploaded prior to
allowing a student to leave the testing session.
8. Faculty will provide a watermarked paper as scratch paper for the examination.
9. All faculty will utilize the ExamSoft’s random password generator for the development of all
passwords for testing sessions.
10. All examination reviews will be proctored and will follow the testing session procedures to
assure security of all items.
11. All faculty are expected to implement the Testing Session Procedures as stated in the
BSN/Second Degree Student handbooks.
Testing Session Procedures
1. Students are expected to arrive on time for testing sessions and are to be seated and ready to
test at the designated start time.
2. All personal belongings must be placed in the front of the room or at a designated area
determined by the faculty. This includes all bags, coats, hats, phones, watches, electronic
devices and any other items at the discretion of the faculty.
3. All cell phones or other electronic devices must be turned off.
47
4. Students should use the restroom prior to the testing session. Restroom use is restricted during
the testing session and will be allowed only in emergency situations.
5. Students will not be permitted to leave the classroom during testing except in the case of an
emergency.
6. Only a computer and mouse (as needed), PSU identification and a pencil will be allowed on the
desk during the testing session.
7. Faculty will provide a watermarked paper for each student. Students will be required to write
their name on the paper and return it to the faculty at the conclusion of the examination. Failure
to return this paper to the faculty prior to leaving the testing session will be considered a
violation of the University’s Academic Integrity Policy. Any student who removes the paper
from the testing session will be subject to the Academic Integrity process which may include
receiving a zero on the examination or other disciplinary actions.
8. No food or beverages will be allowed at the desk during testing sessions.
9. Students may be asked to move to another seat or assigned to a seat for the testing session at
the discretion of the faculty.
10. Talking during the exam is not permitted unless an emergency occurs.
11. No questions will be answered during the examination unless related to an error/typo on the
examination or a technical difficulty. Raise your hand for assistance if this occurs.
12. Do your own work. Any evidence of cheating will be subject to the University’s Academic
Integrity Policy.
13. Students are required to upload the examination as soon as the examination is completed or
when the testing time has expired. Proctors should confirm the green screen prior to the student
leaving the testing room. Students should not leave the testing session without confirming an
examination upload with the proctor.
14. If remaining in the testing area following an examination, your computer lid must remain
closed after the examination upload has been confirmed by the faculty until the exam session
has concluded for all students. Students remaining in the testing area after the exam will not
have access to personal belonging until the conclusion of the testing session.
15. If a student leaves the testing session after the completion of the examination, the student will
not be allowed to return to the testing session until all students have completed the
examination.
16. RECOMMENDATION: As class size increases, faculty should consider adding additional
proctors to the testing session. Faculty groups at all campuses will be expected to work together
to identify a strategy to provide adequate proctoring for all examinations.
Approved by BSN Council 12/10/2018
Revised BSN Council Spring 2019
Revised BSN Council Spring 2020
48
COURSE AND CLINICAL SCHEDULING
1. Classes and/or clinical experiences may vary according to campus (Altoona or Harrisburg).
2. Some NURS courses, in addition to the scheduled lecture and clinical times, may also include a
“BY APPT” notation to allow for clinical alternative experiences (e.g. AA meeting attendance for
NURS 420) that may occur at a time other than the posted clinical meeting day/time. The
alternative experience time will be incorporated into the allotted clinical time (e.g. 90 hours total).
3. The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing may change course times, days and/or sections up
until the day prior to the first day of classes based on enrollments and/or administrative
necessities.
4. Students may register for only one required clinical per day. Back-to-back clinical experiences on
the same day are not permitted because of the educational and safety concerns associated with
long hours.
5. Classes/courses may be administratively adjusted on the student’s behalf due to various
circumstances (e.g. registering outside of stated guidelines, registering without permission—
NURS 495/496, section size control, administrative necessities, etc.).
Revised Jan 2020
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM ENROLLMENT
Each pre-licensure undergraduate option (GNURS and SCND) has enrollment limits. Moving between
options to complete nursing courses is not permitted unless approved by the Associate Dean for
Undergraduate Education.
Revised Summer 2022
RE-ENROLLMENT/RE-ENTRY/DELAY IN PROGRAM PROGRESSION POLICY
The time to complete the Nursing Program depends on the sequence of courses, plan of study and clinical
placement availability. Optimally, students should complete the program (SCND Degree – 16 months)
according to the designated Suggested Academic Plan (SAP).
Academic progression in the nursing program supports the development and synthesis of the necessary
skills from fundamental understanding to complex critical thinking. The academic progression is designed
to support educational success, licensure and transition to practice.
To facilitate timely progression and ultimate success, the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has in
place the following guidelines:
Students may do only ONE of the following:
1. Drop only one required nursing course during the regular drop/add period and only one time.
OR
2. Withdraw from the University only one time once enrolled in the Nursing program.
OR
3. Take a leave of absence only one time.
Note: Any of the above three actions will prolong the student’s progression by at least one year and could
be longer if space is not available.
49
Students re-entering:
1. Must provide the Nursing Program Coordinator with a written intent to return to the program prior
to the semester when the student will return according to the following table.
Returning
Semester
Notification
Deadline
Spring Semester
October 1
st
of the
preceding year
Summer Semester
February 1
st
of the
same year
Fall Semester
January 1
st
of the
same year
2. Must complete the University’s re-enrollment requirement prior to re-entering the program.
(https://www.registrar.psu.edu/enrollment/returning/reenrollment/index.cfm)
3. Are responsible for any fees associated with re-entry (i.e. re-enrollment fee).
4. Will return under the current curriculum requirements.
5. May be required to complete additional course work, repeat ATI testing/review course
requirements and/ or demonstrate competency of skills.
6. Must meet all program compliance requirements at least one month prior to the start of the
semester of return or by agreed upon deadline.
7. The Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education may approve exceptions in extreme situations.
The exception would require student review and development of an individualized plan of study.
NOTE:
• Re-entry into the program is not guaranteed and approvals are dependent upon resources and
clinical availability.
• Please contact the campus coordinator for nursing program/s for military exception to this policy.
• All exceptions must be approved by the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education prior to the
start of the semester.
Effective Spring, 2015
AS Council Approval: 12/8/14
BS Council Approval: 12/1/14
Undergraduate Affairs Approval: 12/8/14
Revised: 10/2015, 1/30/2017
Editorial Changes: 1/3/2017
50
PRIOR LEARNING AND TRANSFER CREDIT
Second degree students receive 60 credits based on their previous degree, which meets the University
general education requirements. All prerequisite courses (e.g. Anatomy) must be completed by Spring
semester prior to Fall admission. All nursing courses are required to be completed at the campus of
admission. Transfer nursing courses taken prior to admission or after admission to Penn State are not
accepted to meet Second Degree program requirements
BSN Council Approval 12/2018
51
COVID-19 STATEMENT
ATTENTION ALL STUDENTS
COVID-19 Vaccination Compliance Information
Students are responsible for staying current and complying with the most recent requirements related to
COVID-19 at the University and within any clinical/practicum site.
• University information on COVID-19 is located at https://virusinfo.psu.edu/. This site will post
information on required University mitigations such as masking or testing when conditions
warrant.
• Current CDC guidance located at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• University learning resources regarding health and safety are located at
https://keeplearning.psu.edu/.
• Students should remain flexible to adapt to changing COVID-19 conditions during the academic
year.
At the start of AY 2022-23, all persons working, performing student activities, or visiting a health care
entity that is covered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) vaccination mandate
must do the following:
• Wear required masks and all required PPE. Accepted mask types will be designated by the
clinical site and Nese CON.
• Demonstrate evidence of being fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or have an approved
accommodation.
• Students need to upload the COVID-19 vaccine card (both sides) to MyUHS as part of the health
screen information. Those instructions are located at https://studentaffairs.psu.edu/submit-
immunizations.
If a student is not vaccinated and wants to seek a religious accommodation, then our University
Affirmative Action Office (AAO) is the lead. The process for a student (under the CMS requirements) for
requesting an accommodation is at this link.
https://affirmativeaction.psu.edu/covid-19-information/.
If a student is not vaccinated and wants to seek a medical accommodation, then UHS is the lead. That
link is https://studentaffairs.psu.edu/covid-19-support/compact-conduct-and-compliance/covid-19-
vaccine-accommodation-requests.
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive for COVID-19, DO NOT
attend in person class or complete clinical practicum hours. Please notify your instructor immediately.
More information on university support resources for students and COVID-19 may be found at
https://virusinfo.psu.edu/.
All nursing students must complete required compliances for this academic year. Please refer to the
student handbook and the American Data Bank compliance package.
52
CLINICAL COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS
A major requirement of the Nursing Program is compliances. “Compliances” is the blanket term used for
all the medical and legal information required by the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese
CON), the State Board of Nursing (SBN) and the clinical institutions to be eligible to complete your
clinical experiences and ultimately work as a Registered Nurse.
ATTENTION: Any change in compliance status (e.g. Criminal background) between annual checks is to
be reported by the student to the campus coordinator for nursing program/s. Not reporting a change in
status could result in loss of access to clinical opportunities and the inability to progress and/or complete
the nursing program.
Compliances are required ANNUALLY. Compliance documentation (exams, results, certifications) must
be dated/completed between May 1 and June 30. Since the Second Degree program is 4 consecutive
semesters, year one is defined as your first Fall and Spring semester and year two is defined as the
subsequent Summer and Fall semester.
• Year one (Fall-Spring) students will receive a compliance packet during the Spring semester prior to
their first semester. The clinical compliance requirement deadline is June 30th. All compliance data
collection is completed through American DataBank. All Compliance questions should be directed to
American DataBank/Complio at: 800-200-0853 or submit a request to
• Year two (Summer-Fall) students will receive a compliance packet at the start of the Spring semester
of year one. The clinical compliance requirement deadline for year two is May 1
st
. All compliance
data collection is completed throughAmerican Databank. All Compliance questions should be directed
to American DataBank/Complio at: 800-200-0853 or submit a request to
• It is important to follow the compliance timeline to ensure you are compliant for the full
academic year. Most compliance information expires after 1 (one) calendar year. If you begin this
process prior to May 1st, your compliances will expire prior to the end of the academic year and you
will be at risk of being removed from your clinical courses
• Compliance documents are submitted to student’s account. You will not be able to download forms
or upload data before May 1
st
. To submit documents, scan original documents and upload to the
secured site
• Students not meeting the upload deadline will have nursing courses dropped from their schedule
• Forms and instructions for completion and submission may vary between first and second year
nursing students. Please refer to Table 1 below for your specific requirements
• Some clinical institutions may have additional requirements (e.g., drug testing requirements) that are
not part of the standard compliances. You will be notified prior to the start of your clinical if you must
complete the additional requirements
53
• All compliance requirements are listed below in Table 1. Please refer to the compliance timeline for
information on when to complete the requirements. Detailed information and a snapshot of each
requirement follow the timeline
Table 1. Compliance Requirements (CR)
CR#
Document
First Year
(June 30)
Second Year
(May 1)
1
Student Notification of Program Requirements Form
X
X
2
Clinical Experiences Acknowledgment of Risk
X
3
Student Consent for Release of Information to Authorized
Third Parties
X X
4
Confidentiality, Safe Environment and Fiction Contract for
Nursing Simulation
X X
5
Initial Health Exam Form
X
Health Examination Annual Update Form
X
6
Personal Health Insurance (Copy of Card-front and back)
X
X
7
Liability/Malpractice Insurance (Copy of Policy)
X
X
8
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification (Copy of
Card-front and back)
X X
Clearance Checks:
9
PA Child Abuse History Clearance (Copy of Results)
X
X
10
Criminal Background Check (Copy of Results)
X
X
11
FBI Criminal Background Check/Fingerprints (Copy of
Results)
X X
12
Student Data Sheet Form
X
X
13
Flu Immunization (Due each fall)
X
X
14
Drug Testing (Specific to clinical institution)
X
X
15
Consent, License and Release Agreement
X
X
16
Covid-19 Vaccination
X
X
Revised Spring 2020;
Summer 2020; 4/2021
54
TIMELINE FOR YEAR ONE
The Compliance timeline is as follows for Year One:
Spring (Prior to first semester)
_____ Schedule a health examination appointment for the first week of May.
**Remember medical testing may take several weeks to be completed. Scheduling your
appointment early allows this process to be initiated early enough for all compliance materials to
be completed and submitted by June 30
_____ Schedule American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider certification
course offered between May 1
st
and May 30
th
to complete the CPR
certification
requirement. (Includes CPR for the infant and child, and one-person and two-person CPR
for the adult)
_____ Read the Student Handbook https://www.nursing.psu.edu/student-handbooks/
MAY 1:
_____ Go to the American DataBank website to create your account and purchase your package.
All necessary documents are located here. You will upload all final documents to this site
_____ Download all required forms from the American DataBank website (e.g., Initial Health
Examination form). Read and understand each document and follow instructions to
complete each requirement
_____ Complete FBI Criminal Background Check and Fingerprinting – Visit the IDEMIA
(MorphoTrust) website for Pennsylvania at:
https://www.identogo.com/locations/pennsylvania
Please note: Once registration is complete, you may go to any location throughout the
state of Pennsylvania ONLY to have your fingerprints electronically scanned.
Fingerprint cards are the only option for out-of-state applicants or optional for
applicants who are unable to be printed electronically at a Livescan system within
Pennsylvania. Instructions on “How to Submit a Fingerprint Card” –
Complete online registration with fingerprint provider IDEMIA MorphoTrust via
IdentoGO following the instructions on your To Do List and print the Service
Summary page at the end of your registration.
_____ Health Examination – Bring your “Initial Health Examination Form” to your appointment.
Your healthcare provider must complete all medical requirements (titers, 2-step TB, etc.
dates and results) and document all data on this form (no attached or separate sheets of
paper permitted)
_____ CPR certification card – Complete American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS)
Provider certification course. Upload front and back of CPR card.
_____ Professional Liability Malpractice Insurance – Obtain and upload your policy
_____ Student Notification of Program Requirements – Read and sign
55
_____ Clinical Experiences Acknowledgment of Risk – Read and sign
_____ Student Consent for Release of Information to Authorized Third Parties – Read and sign
_____ Confidentiality, Safe Environment and Fiction Contract for Nursing Simulation – Read and
sign
_____ Consent, License and Release Agreement – Read and sign
_____ Student Data Sheet – Please remember to put your local Penn State address.
_____ PA Child Abuse History Clearance and the Criminal Background Check – Complete
according to guidelines provided on the American DataBank website
_____ Personal Health Insurance Card – Upload front and back of card
_____ Drug Test – Upload your results
_____ COVID-19 Vaccination Card – Upload front and back of card
_____ Upload all completed documents to your account by June 30th.
_____ Make and keep a copy of all documentation for your own records.
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON) is not able to provide copies to
you now or in the future.
JUNE 30
th
: COMPLIANCE DEADLINE
_____ All forms must be completed and uploaded to your account at this time
_____ American DataBank will send you an email if any requirement is not completed by the
deadline.
_____ The Nursing Office will send you an email when requirements are verified
_____ Keep a copy of all documents for your records, both at home and at school.
PLEASE NOTE: The Nese CON does not retain copies of your documents.
EARLY IN FALL SEMEMSTER
_____ Receive a flu vaccination during the current flu shot season by the deadline (campus
specific). Scan and upload vaccination documentation or obtain a signed Declination Waiver from
your healthcare provider.
56
TIMELINE FOR YEAR TWO
The Compliance timeline is as follows for Year Two:
Spring (Semester of Year One)
_____ Schedule a health examination appointment no later than February 28
th
. **Remember
medical testing may take several weeks to be completed. Scheduling your appointment
early allows this process to be initiated early enough for all compliance materials to be
completed and submitted by May 1.
_____ Schedule American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider certification
course offered between February 1
st
and February 28th
to complete the CPR
certification
requirement if you need to renew. (Includes CPR for the infant and child, and one-person
and two-person CPR for the adult)
_____ Read the Student Handbook online at: http://www.nursing.psu.edu/undergrad/handbooks/
FEBRUARY 1:
_____ Go to the American DataBank website to create your account and purchase your package.
All necessary documents are located here. You will upload all final documents to this site
_____ Download all required forms from American DataBank (e.g., Health Examination Annual
Update form). Read and understand each document and follow instructions to complete
each requirement
_____ Complete FBI Criminal Background Check and Fingerprinting – Visit the IDEMIA
(MorphoTrust) website for Pennsylvania at:
https://www.identogo.com/locations/pennsylvania
Please note: Once registration is complete, you may go to any location throughout
the state of Pennsylvania ONLY to have your fingerprints electronically scanned.
Fingerprint cards are the only option for out-of-state applicants or optional for
applicants who are unable to be printed electronically at a Livescan system
within Pennsylvania. Instructions on “How to Submit a Fingerprint Card” –
Complete online registration with fingerprint provider IDEMIA MorphoTrust
via IdentoGO following the instructions on your ADB To Do List and print the
Service Summary page at the end of your registration.
_____ Health Examination – Bring your “Health Examination Annual update Form” to your
appointment. Your healthcare provider must complete all medical requirements (1-step TB,
etc. date and results) and document all data on this form (no attached or separate sheets of
paper permitted)
_____ CPR certification card – Complete American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS)
Provider certification course if needed. Upload front and back of CPR card.
_____ Professional Liability Malpractice Insurance – Obtain and upload your policy
_____ Student Notification of Program Requirements – Read and sign
_____ Clinical Experiences Acknowledgment of Risk – Read and sign
_____ Student Consent for Release of Information to Authorized Third Parties – Read and sign
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_____ Consent, License and Release – Read and Sign
_____ Confidentiality, Safe Environment and Fiction Contract for Nursing Simulation – Read and
sign
_____ Student Data Sheet – Please remember to put your local Penn State address.
_____ PA Child Abuse History Clearance and the Criminal Background Check - Complete
according to guidelines provided on the American DataBank website
_____ Personal Health Insurance Card – Upload front and back of card
_____ Drug Test – Upload your results
_____ COVID-19 Vaccination Card – Upload front and back of card
_____ Upload all completed documents to your American DataBank account by May 1st.
_____ Make and keep a copy of all documentation for your own records.
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON) is not able to provide copies to
you now or in the future.
MAY 1
st
: COMPLIANCE DEADLINE
_____ All forms must be completed and uploaded to your American DataBank account at this
time
_____ American DataBank will send you an email if any requirement is not completed by the
deadline.
_____ The Nursing Office will send you an email when requirements are verified.
_____ Keep a copy of all documents for your records, both at home and at school.
PLEASE NOTE: The Nese CON does not retain copies of your documents.
EARLY IN FALL SEMESTER:
_____ Receive a flu vaccination during the current flu shot season by the deadline (campus
specific). Scan and upload vaccination documentation or obtain a signed Declination Waiver from
your healthcare provider.
58
PROCESS IF NOT COMPLIANT
What Happens If My Compliances Are Not Completed On Time?
(*effective SUMMER 2018)
Annual completion of compliances is a professional responsibility that will be required as
long as you are in the nursing profession. Not completing your compliances by the established
deadline jeopardizes our relationship with the clinical sites who graciously agree to host and assist
in teaching the nursing students each year; places a lot of stress on you; and creates an enormous
amount of work for the nursing staff who are required to verify compliances and meet the clinical
facility submission deadline. The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON) cannot
risk losing even one clinical facility. Bottom line is without clinical facilities, Penn State has no
nursing program.
• June 30 is the annual deadline for compliances for incoming students.
• All documentation must be uploaded to American DataBank by May 1
st
for
students expecting to graduate in Dec (current year) or to American
DataBank between May 1 and June 30 for incoming students
If you don’t have all of your compliances uploaded by June 30:
It’s serious: Not meeting the compliances deadline is potentially life-changing.
This notification is the only warning you will receive.
Nursing courses will be dropped from your schedule without notice in July and will not
be reinstated for an entire academic year.
Scheduling of nursing courses will be blocked for one full academic year, preventing
your progression in the nursing program.
o During this year, students may take a leave of absence (necessary if you will be taking
the year off)
Student should talk with their advisor to consider the ramifications (i.e., financial aid) of
not progressing.
Extenuating circumstances will not be considered unless the Student Success Center is
contacted by April 1
st
to develop a plan that address your difficulty. The student must
initiate this contact; confidentiality prohibits Nese CON staff from talking about your
compliances with anyone except you!
Examples of circumstances that are not legitimate are: study abroad, summer camp,
vacation, out of the country, forgetting, lack of knowledge about deadline, did not receive
the emails, finances, etc.
Annual compliance requirements have been discussed in Accepted Student Programs, New
Student Orientation, First-Year Seminar, many nursing classes, in the CONcierge
Newsletter, on Facebook, and in numerous listserv emails.
Plan ahead! You are responsible for completing your compliances on time, and will
be held accountable.
Revised Summer 2022
59
COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS (CR) #1-15
CR #1: Student Notification of Program Requirements Form
• The student is responsible for all information listed on this form
• The Student Notification of Program Requirements form must be submitted to student’s
account. This form will remain in effect until student’s graduation
CR #2: Clinical Experiences Acknowledgment of Risk
• The student is responsible for all information listed on this form
• The Clinical Experiences Acknowledgment of Risk form must be submitted to student’s
account. This form will remain in effect until student’s graduation
Added Aug 2020
CR #3: Student Consent for Release of Information to Authorized Third Parties
• The student is responsible for all information listed on this form
• The Student Consent for Release of Information to Authorized Third Parties form must be
submitted to student’s account. This form will remain in effect until student’s graduation
CR #4: Confidentiality, Safe Environment and Fiction Contract for Nursing Simulation
• The student is responsible for all information listed on this form
• The Confidentiality, Safe Environment and Fiction Contract for Nursing Simulation form
must be submitted to student’s account. This form will remain in effect until student’s
graduation
CR #5: Initial Health Exam Form
(for first year students)
OR:
Health Exam Annual Update Form
(for second year students)
• The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing subscribes to the Pennsylvania State Board of
Nursing requirement that every undergraduate nursing student shall have a Health
Examination
• Copies of Doctor’s records are not accepted as the health examination. All information
must be documented on the Nese CON form. This form must be completed and signed by
the healthcare provider
• The Inital Health Examination form or the Health Examination Annual Update form must
be submitted to student’s account
Revised 4/2021
CR #6: Personal Health Insurance
(Copy of Card – Front and Back)
• Students must retain proof of health insurance throughout the academic year
60
• Students may be asked to provide proof of current health insurance by the clinical agencies
before being permitted to provide patient care in those agencies, and failure to do so will
result in the student’s failure to meet clinical requirements
• Students have the option to enroll in the Penn State insurance plan, to maintain a private
insurance policy, or, if eligible, to continue under their parent’s or spouse’s coverage
• The student is responsible for all costs related to emergency or follow-up care associated
with any injury sustained while on clinical that is not covered by their health insurance
• A copy of student’s personal health insurance card must be submitted annually to student’s
account
CR #7: Liability/Malpractice Insurance
• Current Liability/Malpractice Insurance is required of all students by the clinical facilities
• Policy coverage dates must be from May 1 through April 30
• Most sites require a minimum coverage of $1,000,000/$3,000,000
• A copy of student’s malpractice/liability policy must be submitted annually to student’s
account
• Students must select their own insurance carrier
Penn State University does not provide liability insurance for students engaging in internships
nor extend its insurance to students. Penn State also does not recommend specific insurance
providers. Insurance is available from many insurance providers, possibly including the
student’s own insurance provider(s) and/or some professional association-sponsored insurance
programs. It is the student’s responsibility to purchase liability insurance that meets the host
sites’ insurance requirements.
CR #8: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification
(Copy of Card – Front and Back)
• Only the American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider certification
course will be accepted. American DataBank will not accept, for example, American Red
Cross Lifeguard CPR or American Heart Association Heartsaver Courses.
• Online certification is only accepted if renewing the certification.
• A copy of current CPR certification at the appropriate Basic Life Support (BLS) level
(CPR for the infant and child, and one-person and two-person CPR for the adult) is
required.
• The certification is valid for two years and costs approximately $70.
• For information on class sessions, call the American Heart Association (877-242-4277) or
go online to
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/CPRAndECC/CPR_UCM_001118_SubHomePage.jsp
Upload (scan) a copy of your certification card (front AND back) to your account
61
CR #9 - #11: Clearance Checks
General Information
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing maintains child abuse, PA and Federal criminal
history clearance policies and procedures to assure the safety of the public receiving services of
students and to meet requirements of the agencies where students complete clinical requirements.
• The student is responsible for all fees associated with the clearance checks
• Clearance checks are required annually
• Progression in the Nursing Program is dependent on the clearance check results. Failure to
disclose any violation including summary offense, misdemeanor, and/or felonies may result in
a student not progressing in the nursing program or immediate dismissal from the program.
• All program decisions related to child abuse and criminal history clearances are consistent with
the recommendations of the National League of Nursing, The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Department of State, Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs, and the State Board of
Nursing. These include but are not limited to the following:
1. All clinical facilities have the right and/or responsibility to preclude students who have a
history of child abuse or criminal activity from the facility. If experience in such a facility
is required to achieve the clinical objectives, the student will not be able to complete the
required course.
2. Even if there are multiple clinical course sections and the student is able to have clinical
experience for the course at another agency and thus complete the program, the student
should know that the State Board may deny licensure based on the applicant’s child abuse
or criminal history. Students also should know that if the student does become licensed,
various laws may preclude the individual from employment in a wide variety of settings.
3. In addition, students should be aware of the following State Board of Licensure policy:
To determine whether an applicant with a criminal record will be permitted to
take the examination, the Board will review the facts of the applicant’s case
including the type of conviction(s), the length of time that has elapsed since the
conviction(s), whether or not drugs were involved, whether the crime could be
classified as one involving moral turpitude, etc. Generally, the less egregious
the crime, the greater the amount of time that has elapsed since the offense, the
more persuasive the evidence than an individual can practice nursing with
reasonable skill and safety and that there is a low likelihood of recidivism, the
greater the chance of receiving approval to take the licensure examination.
4. In the past, the Board has concluded that an indicated report of child abuse is evidence that
an applicant is not of good moral character.
CR #9: PA Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 151)
and
CR #10: PA Criminal Record Check (Act 34)
Students are required to have both Act 151 (Pennsylvania Child Abuse History) and Act 34
(Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Record Check) clearances prior to beginning any
nursing course.
62
1. The annual Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance is obtained by completing the
included Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance form and following the instructions
on the form:
a. For electronic submission: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/CWIS
OR
b. For mail submission (print, complete, and mail form):
http://keepkidssafe.pa.gov/cs/groups/webcontent/documents/form/s_001762.pdf
2. The annual criminal background check is completed through American DataBank. A form
outlining all pertinent information is included for use in completing this request.
NOTE:
• In order to be compliant for the Summer/Fall semester, you must request clearances
between February 1 and February 15, as clearances take 4-6 weeks to be processed
• When completing the Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Certification Application, the
Purpose of Certification is “Volunteer having direct volunteer contact with children”.
Check the box “Other” and write in “Nursing Student”. The Agency/Organization Name is
“Penn State University College of Nursing”.
• The student is responsible for all fees associated with both background checks
• Clearances are required on a yearly basis while the student is enrolled in clinical nursing
courses
• Use ONLY the providers listed above for certification of required background checks.
Other agencies that provide clearances are not accepted
• Call the Department of Human Services (877-371-5422) if you have questions
Clearances must be completed and uploaded to your account
63
CR #11: Federal Criminal History Clearance (Act 73) and Fingerprinting (Act 171)
General Information
• It is a federal regulation that anyone who potentially comes in contact with children
requires fingerprinting and a Federal Criminal History Clearance (national criminal history)
report completed
• This requirement is done through the Department of Human Services (NOT the
Department of Education or the Department of Aging, for example)
• Currently the complete process takes approximately 4-6 weeks
• Students may use any Pennsylvania site that is listed – the student’s home address does not
determine the site which must be used
• The IdentoGO center operated by IDEMIA (MorphoTrust) will identify the Pennsylvania
locations, hours of operation, appointment instructions, and identification materials that
you are required to bring to the site where fingerprinting will be completed. Contact
IdentoGO (855-845-7434) if you have questions.
General Instructions
• Completion of this requirement involves two steps: (1) registration, and (2) actual
fingerprinting
• Registration must be done online at the IDEMIA (MorphoTrust) website for Pennsylvania
at: https://www.identogo.com/locations/pennsylvania
• Select "Digital Fingerprinting"
• Enter the "Service Code" and select "Go"
• The "Service Code" is provided in the “To Do List Requirement”
• Select "Schedule or Manage Appointment"
• Payment is made ONLY at the time of fingerprinting
• Credit card, debit card, cashier’s check or money order are the ONLY payment methods
Cash, personal checks or electronic payments will NOT be accepted at the site
• You must have your payment with you when you go to your scheduled fingerprint
scan appointment
• Make sure that you bring both your document ID and payment method with you to
your session
• Follow instructions for the specific site you plan to use and make an appointment. If you
show up without an appointment, you will be turned away.
• A letter with the results will be mailed to the student
• A copy of the letter and, if applicable, any associated pages that include a Record of Arrest
and Prosecution (RAP sheet), must be submitted annually to the student' s American
DataBank account.
64
Pennsylvania Fingerprint (Ink Card) Instructions
(For out of state applicants or optional for applicants who are unable to be printed within
Pennsylvania)
• Complete online registration with fingerprint provider IDEMIA MorphoTrust via IdentoGO
following the instructions on your To Do List and print the Service Summary page at the
end of your registration.
• Ask the location if they can perform printed fingerprints for you on the FD-258 fingerprint
cards.
• You will need to obtain two sets of physical fingerprint cards to submit for processing.
Fingerprints MUST be submitted on the official FD-258 fingerprint cards, which are included
in the packet that you downloaded from your account.
• Some states have limited resources for this process. If you are having trouble locating an
agency to perform fingerprints, we suggest trying the following alternative solutions:
Some shipping/mailing stores may offer this service
College/Universities may have on campus police departments that can offer
this service
Unsuccessful Clearance Procedures
Child Abuse
Procedure for Unsuccessful “Child Abuse Clearance”
If the student clearance returns “Indicated”:
1. A meeting between the student and Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s
will be arranged by the Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s.
2. At the meeting, the policy will be reviewed and a plan will be developed which
may include obtaining clinical agency permission for the student to practice in
their facility. If the student cannot meet all clinical program requirements, the
student will be referred for career counseling.
3. Documentation of the meeting will be placed in the student’s file.
If the student clearance returns “Founded”:
1. A meeting between the student, Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s,
Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, and the Dean of the Ross and Carol
Nese College of Nursing will be arranged by the Campus Coordinator for Nursing
Program/s.
2. Meeting will include discussion of policy and development of a plan which may
include obtaining clinical agency permission for the student to practice in their
facility. If the student cannot meet all clinical program requirements, the student
will be referred for career counseling.
3. Documentation of the meeting will be placed in the student’s file.
65
Criminal
Procedure for Unsuccessful “Criminal Clearance”
If the student clearance returns as “Summary”:
1. A meeting between the student and Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s
will be arranged by the Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s.
2. Meeting will include discussion of policy.
3. Documentation of the meeting will be placed in the student’s file.
If the student clearance returns as “Misdemeanor”:
1. A meeting between the student and Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s
will be arranged by the Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s.
2. Meeting will include discussion of policy and development of a plan which may
include obtaining clinical agency permission for the student to practice in their
facility. If the student cannot meet all clinical program requirements, the student
will be referred for career counseling.
3. Documentation of the meeting will be placed in the student’s file.
If the student clearance returns as “Felony”:
1. A meeting between the student, Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s,
Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, and the Dean of the Ross and Carol
Nese College of Nursing will be arranged by the Campus Coordinator for Nursing
Program/s.
2. Meeting will include discussion of policy and development of a plan which may
include obtaining clinical agency permission for the student to practice in their
facility. If the student cannot meet all clinical program requirements, the student
will be referred for career counseling.
3. Documentation of the meeting will be placed in the student’s file.
Approved: BS Council 11/02
Revised 1/10/18
CR #12: Student Data Form
• The Student Data Form provides local and emergency contact information. This
information is kept on file and made available only to Ross and Carol Nese College of
Nursing faculty and staff for purposes of Nese CON notifications or student emergency
situations.
• It is the student’s responsibility to notify the appropriate Nese CON Commonwealth
campus Nursing office of any changes during the academic year.
• The Student Data form must be submitted annually to student’s account.
CR #13: Influenza (Flu) Immunization
(Due each fall)
• An annual influenza (Flu) vaccination is required of all nursing students prior to attendance
at any clinical site utilized by the nursing program. Waivers can be granted only if the
influenza vaccination is contraindicated for a student’s health. The waiver must be written
66
by the nursing student’s physician/healthcare provider. Documentation of influenza
vaccination or waiver must be submitted annually to student’s account. Students will be
sent an email notification later in the fall semester with instructions and due dates.
Approved: Undergraduate Affairs – Fall 2011
Revised: Undergraduate Affairs – Fall 2012
CR #14: Drug Testing
• Penn State complies with the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act
Amendments of 1989 ( https://policy.psu.edu/policies/ad87).
Pursuant to this Act, all forms of marijuana, including medical marijuana, are classified as
prohibited controlled substances. Additionally, alcohol, illegal drugs, and legal drugs
obtained without a prescription or which may impair a student’s ability to perform his/her
educational responsibilities are strictly prohibited. Students are subject to drug screening as
part of their required nursing compliances. A positive drug screening for marijuana will be
deemed a positive test and will result in a student being dismissed from the program, even
if the student has been lawfully certified to use medical marijuana and/or possesses a valid
medical marijuana identification card issued in accordance with applicable state law.
• Students are required to complete drug testing as one of the compliances. All drug testing is
coordinated through American DataBank.
• All students will place an order for the drug testing package with American DataBank as
per instructions from their campus.
• Within 48 hours, you will receive a registration form.
• The registration form must be taken to the drug testing facility assigned to you (location is
dependent on zip code provided at the time of the order).
• Once the specimen is collected, it takes 3-5 business days for results.
• Drug retesting protocol is dependent on the clinical agency policy (e.g., dilute or positive
results) and will require further testing and/or evaluation.
• Drug testing reports are securely posted on your account and are available to the student
and the Nese CON only.
• Students are responsible for the cost of all initial drug testing and any retesting.
• Students are responsible for completing the drug screen, checking their results through
American DataBank and completing any follow-up testing if required.
If screening results are negative or dilute negative, no further action is needed.
If screening results are positive or dilute positive, the following steps will be taken:
1. The student will be contacted by the Medical Review Officer from American
DataBank to determine any legitimate explanation for the results.
2. If no explanation can be verified by the Medical Review Officer, the positive results
will be posted by ADB. The student will be dismissed from the nursing major.
3. With a positive or dilute positive result, the student may request the original sample
to be retested at their own expense.
a. If this re-testing of the original sample produces a negative result, no further
action is needed.
b. If this re-testing of the original sample, produces a positive or dilute positive
result, the student will be dismissed from the nursing major.
67
NOTE:
1. The results of the retesting will be considered the final result, not the result from the
first test.
2. If a student declines to take a re-test at own expense, then results will be treated as
confirmed and verified positive result.
Approved: BSN Council - Spring 2018
Revised 9/2018; 4/2021;10/2021
Upload/Scan results to your account
CR #15: Consent, License and Release Agreement
• The student is responsible for all information listed on this form
• The Consent, License and Release Agreement Form must be submitted to student’s
American DataBank account. This form will remain in effect until the student’s graduation
Added Jan 2020
Upload/Scan results to your account
CR #16: Covid-19 Vaccination card
(Copy of Card – Front and Back)
Added Spring 2022
Upload/Scan results to your account
68
COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENT FORM EXAMPLES
CR #1: Student Notification of Program Requirements Form
STUDENT NOTIFICATION OF PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Directions: Please read and complete this form.
1. HANDBOOK: The student is accountable for all policies and information contained within the
Student Handbook. The student handbook can be found on the Nese CON website
2. CONFIDENTIALITY: All students must keep strictly confidential, and shall not divulge to
anyone, the identity of any patient, their medical condition, or their treatment. All students are
required to be familiar with all Standards of Nursing Conduct regarding confidentiality
(Pennsylvania Code, Title 49 Professional and Vocational Standards, 21.18).
Students who violate patient confidentiality in any format (verbally, email, text, social media,
pictures, etc.) will fail the course. Also, the clinical facility reserves the right to terminate any
student’s clinical experience if the facility’s confidentiality (HIPAA) policies are violated. This
would result in course failure because course objectives cannot be met without clinical experience.
3. ASSESSMENT TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE (ATI): As part of the pre-licensure nursing
curriculum, the College of Nursing utilizes materials and services provided by ATI. An ATI yearly
fee will be posted to the student’s tuition account. There is a “NO REFUND” policy, and financial
aid may be applied toward the charges.
4. PERSONAL HEALTH INSURANCE: Current health insurance is required of all students, and
proof of coverage must be provided if the clinical facility requests proof prior to providing patient
care. Therefore, students should carry a copy of their insurance card.
Your signature on this form signifies that you have read and understand these requirements. Failure to
complete and submit this form will result in noncompliance which will impact progression in the nursing
program. This form is in effect until the student’s graduation.
PRINT NAME____________________________________________________
SIGNATURE___________________________________DATE_____________________
*Handwritten (NOT TYPED) signatures only
Upload (Scan) Completed Form to Your Account
Revised Spring 2017
69
CR #2: Clinical Experiences Acknowledgment of Risk
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
Clinical Experiences Acknowledgment of Risk
Clinical experiences (practicum, clinical rotations, supervised practice, internships, or observations) are a
required component of academic nursing programs in The Pennsylvania State University (“Penn State”) Ross
and Carol Nese College of Nursing (“Nese CON”). These experiences allow students to practice skills and
techniques learned in didactic and laboratory courses as well as develop clinical judgement skills that are
important for health care providers. Clinical experiences occur in hospitals, clinics, schools, community
organizations, and other settings where students can interact with patients and clients.
Clinical facilities are responsible for taking reasonable and appropriate measures to protect students’ health
and safety in the clinical setting and may have more stringent policies than the Nese CON. Where the clinical
facility’s health and safety policies are more stringent than the Nese CON’s policies, the clinical facility’s
policies must be followed. From time to time, Nese CON faculty will develop policies and procedures relating
to student safety and prevention, which will be communicated to students and to which students are required to
adhere; however, risks inherent to clinical experiences remain.
Such inherent risks, include, but are not limited to:
• Exposure to infectious diseases through blood or other body fluids via skin, mucus membranes or
parenteral contact;
• Exposure to infectious diseases through droplet or air-borne transmission (such as COVID-19);
• Hazardous chemical exposure;
• Radiation exposure;
• Environmental hazards, including slippery floors and electrical hazards;
• Physical injuries, including back injuries;
• Psychosocial hazards;
• Offensive, inappropriate, or dangerous conduct by patients or clients, including violence,
harassment, and sexual harassment.
These and other risks inherent in clinical experiences can lead to serious complications, trauma, personal injury,
illness, permanent disability, and/or death.
Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) will be utilized during the student’s clinical experiences. In
addition to compliance with both Nese CON and clinical facility policies and procedures, students will receive
academic training from the Nese CON and training from the clinical facility related to potential hazards and
prevention techniques. Students have the responsibility to report any potential exposures to inherent risks, as
described above, to the clinical facility supervisor at their clinical site and their faculty clinical instructor (if
any).
ACKNOWLEDGMENT: In consideration of my participation in a clinical experience as a part of the
nursing degree program at Penn State:
1. I understand that my degree program requires participation in clinical experiences as a critical component
of the academic nursing programs at Penn State. I acknowledge that clinical experiences carry inherent risks,
some of which I may not fully appreciate, and which cannot be eliminated.
70
2. I understand that it is my sole responsibility to follow nursing instructor and clinical supervisor
instructions and take available precautions to minimize risk. I will follow program-specific directives
relating to prevention of injury, illness, disease, and any other type of damages.
3. I am freely and willingly pursuing my chosen nursing degree program and participating in a clinical
experience.
4. I acknowledge that there is risk associated with my participation in clinical experiences, and understand the
contagious nature of COVID-19, and assume any risks of exposure to or infection by it or any variant
thereof, including, without limitation, personal injury, illness, severe complications, permanent disability,
and/or death which may result from such exposure.
I HAVE CAREFULLY READ AND REVIEWED THIS ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RISK AND BY
SIGNING AGREE I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE RISKS AND MY RESPONSIBILITIES.
Student Signature Date
Student Printed Name
Approved 8/6/2020
Revised 2/26/2022 (OGC reviewed 2.25.2022); BSN Council 3/14/2022
Upload (Scan) Completed Form to Your Account
71
CR #3: Student Consent for Release of Information to Authorized Third Parties
STUDENT CONSENT FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION TO AUTHORIZED THIRD PARTIES
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and/or Pennsylvania law protects the privacy of
student education records (including their personal health information) by prohibiting their disclosure
without the student’s written consent, except under limited circumstances. To participate in clinical
rotations, students must meet all clinical facility requirements, including providing clinical facilities with
access to certain health/educational records. In order for the University to provide clinical facilities with
copies of such records, students must complete and sign this Release.
Authorized Third Party:
Clinical facilities where the student may be completing a clinical
rotation.
Purpose of Disclosure:
Requirement or condition of a clinical facility in order for student
to participate in clinical learning experiences, if requested by the
facility.
Duration of Authorization:
Effective during the Student’s enrollment in the Nese College of
Nursing unless otherwise revoked by the student.
R
ECORDS TO BE
R
ELEASED
:
All records required by the Clinical facility, which may include but are not limited to the following:
Initial Health Exam Form
Health Examination Annual Update Form
Proof of Personal Health Insurance (copy of insurance card)
Liability/Malpractice Insurance Policy
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification
Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance Results
Criminal Background Check Results
FBI Criminal Background Check Results and Fingerprints
Proof of Flu Immunization
Drug Testing results
Proof of Covid-19 Vaccination
I am signing this authorization/consent form voluntarily. I understand that I have the right to: (1) not to
consent to the release of my education records, (2) inspect any written records released pursuant to this
consent, and (3) revoke this consent at any time by delivering a written revocation to the Nese College of
Nursing campus coordinator for nursing program/s for my campus in person, via email provided that the
email is acknowledged by the nursing campus coordinator for nursing program/s for my campus, or through
U.S. Certified Mail.
__________________________________________ __________________
Student Signature Date
__________________________________________ __________________
Student Legal Name (Last, First, Middle Initial) Date
Revised March 2019; Spring 2021
OGC Review Spring 2022
72
CR #4: Confidentiality Agreement, Safe Environment and Fiction Contract
The Pennsylvania State University
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT, SAFE ENVIRONMENT & FICTION CONTRACT
for Nursing Simulation
As a patron of the Nursing Simulation Lab, I understand the significance of confidentiality with respect to
information concerning simulated patients and fellow students. I will uphold the requirements of the
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and any other federal or state laws
regarding confidentiality. I agree to report any violations of confidentiality that I become aware of to my
facilitator or instructor. I understand and agree to being videotaped during the course of simulations and
skill demonstration to be viewed by faculty and fellow students related to the course of instruction.
I agree to adhere to the following guidelines:
• I will be open to reflection during the debriefing and care for the Human Patient Simulators (HPS) in
the same way I would care for any patient, acting with the patient’s best interest in mind with the
intention to provide safe and accurate patient care.
• All patient information is confidential and any inappropriate viewing, discussion, or disclosure of this
information is a violation of the Penn State College of Nursing policy.
• This information is privileged and confidential regardless of format: electronic, written, overheard or
observed.
• I may view, use, disclose, or copy information only as it relates to the performance of my educational
duties. Any inappropriate viewing, discussion, or disclosure of this information is a violation of
policy and may be a violation of HIPAA and other state and federal laws.
• The use of the Electronic Medical Record is intended for the simulated clinical environment for the
purpose of student education only and will not involve storing actual, live, or realistic protected
health information including any actual patient information or student health information.
• The simulation lab is a learning environment. All scenarios, regardless of their outcome, should be
treated in a professional manner. The student running the scenario should have everyone’s respect
and attention. Situations simulated in the lab are to be used as a learning tool and not to be used for
humiliation of fellow students.
• The simulators are to be used with respect and be treated as if they were live patients.
• No Betadine, no ink pens (near simulators), 22g IV or smaller for IV starts.
Student Signature: _______________________________________________________
Printed Name: ____________________________________________________
Date: _________________________________
Upload (Scan) Completed Form to Your Account
Original: Fall 2010 (Sharon A. Lacue, MSN, RN, CNE)
Revised: March 2013 (Sharon A. Lacue, MSN, RN, CNE)
Revised December 2017; March 20200
73
CR #5: Initial Health Exam Form (1 of 2 Pages)
74
75
CR #5: Health Exam Annual Update Form
76
CR #8: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification (Copy of Card – Front and Back)
77
CR#9: PA Child Abuse History Certification (2 Pages)
Type or print clearly in ink. If obtaining this certification for non-volunteer purposes or if, as a volunteer having direct volunteer contact with children, you
have obtained a certification free of charge within the previous 57 months, enclose an $8.00 money order or check payable to the PENNSYLVANIA
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES or a payment authorization code provided by your organization. DO NOT send cash.
Certifications for the purpose of “volunteer having direct volunteer contact with children” may be obtained free of charge once every 57 months.
Send to CHILDLINE AND ABUSE REGISTRY, PA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES, P.O. BOX 8170 HARRISBURG, PA 17105-8170.
APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE, ILLEGIBLE OR RECEIVED WITHOUT THE CORRECT FEE WILL BE RETURNED UNPROCESSED.
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS CALL 717-783-6211, OR (TOLL FREE) 1-877-371-5422.
PURPOSE OF CERTIFICATION (Check one box only)
Foster parent
Prospective adoptive parent
Employee of child care services
School employee governed by the Public School Code
School employee not governed by the Public School Code
Self-employed provider of child-care services in a family child-care home
An individual 14 years of age or older applying for or holding a paid
position as an employee with a program, activity, or service
An individual seeking to provide child-care services under contract with a
child care facility or program
An individual 18 years or older who resides in the home of a foster parent
for children for at least 30 days in a calendar year
An individual 18 years or older who resides in the home of a certified or
licensed child-care provider for at least 30 days in a calendar year
Volunteer having direct volunteer contact with children
If purpose is volunteer having direct volunteer contact with chil-
dren, choose SUB PURPOSE:
Big Brother/Big Sister and/or affiliate
Domestic violence shelter and/or affiliate
Rape crisis center and/or affiliate
Other:
PA Department of Human Services Employment & Training Program
participant (signature required below)
SIGNATURE OF OIM/CAO REPRESENTATIVE OIM/CAO PHONE
NUMBER
An individual 18 years or older, excluding individuals receiving services, who resides in a family living home, community home for individuals with an
intellectual disability, or host home for children for at least 30 days in a calendar year
An individual 18 years or older who resides in the home of a prospective adoptive parent for at least 30 days in a calendar year
AGENCY/ORGANIZATION NAME:
PAYMENT AUTHORIZATION CODE, IF APPLICABLE:
Consent/Release of Information Authorization form is attached. Applicant must fill in the “Other Address” sections. By completing the other address
sections, you are agreeing that the organization will have access to the status and outcome of your certification application.
APPLICANT DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION (DO NOT USE INITIALS)
FIRST NAME
MIDDLE NAME
LAST NAME
SUFFIX
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
GENDER
Male Female
Not reported
DATE OF BIRTH (MM/DD/YYYY)
AGE
HOME ADDRESS
MAILING ADDRESS
(if different from home address)
OTHER ADDRESS (if Consent/Release of
Information Authorization form is attached)
ADDRESS LINE 1
ADDRESS LINE 1
ADDRESS LINE 1
ADDRESS LINE 2
ADDRESS LINE 2
ADDRESS LINE 2
CITY
CITY
CITY
COUNTY
COUNTY
COUNTY
STATE/REGION/PROVINCE
STATE/REGION/PROVINCE
STATE/REGION/PROVINCE
ZIP/POSTAL CODE
ZIP/POSTAL CODE
ZIP/POSTAL CODE
COUNTRY
COUNTRY
COUNTRY
Different mailing address
ATTENTION
ATTENTION
CONTACT INFORMATION
HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER
WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER
MOBILE TELEPHONE NUMBER
EMAIL (By submitting an email contact, you are agreeing to ChildLine contacting you at this address.)
PREVIOUS NAMES USED SINCE 1975 (Include maiden name, nickname and aliases.)
Disclosure of your Social Security number is voluntary. It is sought under 23 Pa.C.S. §§ 6336(a)(1) (relating to information in statewide database), 6344 (relat- ing to employees
having contact with children; adoptive and foster parents), 6344.1 (relating to information relating to certified or licensed child-care home residents), and 6344.2 (relating to
volunteers having contact with children). The department will use your Social Security number to search the statewide database to determine whether you are listed as the
perpetrator in an indicated or founded report of child abuse.
78
First Middle Last Suffix
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
PREVIOUS ADDRESSES SINCE 1975 (Please list all addresses since 1975, partial address acceptable; attach additional pages if necessary.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS
(Please list everyone who lived with you at any time since 1975 to present.
Please include parent, guardian or the person(s) who raised you; attach additional pages as necessary.)
Name (First, Middle, Last) Relationship
Present
Age
Gender
1.
Parent
Guardian
person(s) who raised you
2.
Parent
Guardian
person(s) who raised you
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
CHILDLINE USE ONLY
DATE RECEIVED BY CHILDLINE
SUFFICIENT PAYMENT INFORMATION RECEIVED
YES NO
VALID PAYMENT AUTHORIZATION CODE
WAIVED (supervisor initials)
CERTIFICATION ID #
DATE
APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE
I affirm that the above information is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief and submitted as true and correct under penalty of law
(Section 4904 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code). If I selected volunteer, I understand that I can only use the certificate for volunteer purposes.
79
CR #12: Student Data Sheet Form
The Pennsylvania State University
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
STUDENT DATA SHEET
Date:
Name:
PSU 9-Digit #:
PSU Email Address:
PSU Local Address:
Y Yes, I know my address.
No, I don’t know my address yet.
Upload (scan) this form again upon
receipt of your final PSU Housing
address.
Cell Phone #:
Emergency Phone #:
Upload (Scan) Completed Form to Your Account
80
CR #15 Consent, License and Release Agreement
CONSENT, LICENSE AND RELEASE AGREEMENT
I, the undersigned, hereby grant my permission and consent to The Pennsylvania State University (“Penn State”)
and its affiliates, officers, agents, and employees (together, “Penn State Representatives”) to photograph, video
record, or audio record me.
I hereby grant an irrevocable, world
--‐
wide, royalty
--‐
free right and license to Penn State and Penn
State
Representatives to utilize, adapt, modify, reproduce, distribute, publicly perform and display the photographs,
video, and/or audio (collectively “Media”) taken of me for use in promotional, educational, informational,
advertising or commercial materials and communications in any form now known or later developed, including but
not limited to publications, websites, articles, brochures, books, magazines, newsletters, exhibits, videos, films,
social media, advertisements, and training programs (collectively “Materials”). Furthermore, I hereby authorize
and consent to the use of my name, image, likeness, and voice (collectively, “Likeness”) in the Media for all
Materials or any other purposes deemed appropriate by Penn State.
I hereby waive any right to be notified or to inspect or approve the Media or any Materials that are created using
my Likeness, now or in the future, whether that use is known or unknown to me. I hereby waive any right to
royalties or other compensation arising from or related to the use of the Media or Materials. I hereby release and
hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless Penn State and its trustees, Penn State Representatives, and their
licensees and assigns for any and all claims that I or any third party may have now or in the future for invasion of
privacy, right of publicity, copyright infringement, defamation, or any other cause of action arising of the use,
utilization, adaptation, modification, reproduction, distribution, publicly performance or display of my Likeness in
the Media or Materials. In accordance with this complete release of all rights in my Likeness used in the Media
and Materials, I hereby waive any and all claims, damages, or liability arising from or related to the use of the
Media, including but not limited to any misuse, distortion, blurring, alteration, optical illusion, or use in composite
form, either intentionally or otherwise, of my Likeness that may occur or be produced in taking, processing,
reducing, adapting, modifying, producing, reproducing of the Media and Materials and their publication,
distribution, display or performance.
I understand and agree that Penn State is and shall be the exclusive owner of all right title and interest, including
any copyright, in the Media and Materials.
I have read this Consent, License and Release before signing below, and I fully understand the contents, meaning,
and impact of this Consent, License and Release. This Consent, License and Release shall be binding upon and
inure to the benefit of my successors and assigns, and contains the entire understanding of the parties with regards
to the Media and Materials.
I hereby represent that I am eighteen (18) years of age or older and I am competent to contract in my own name.
Name (print) Email (non PSU) Phone Number
Signature Date
I hereby certify that I am the parent and/or legal guardian of the above
-‐
named minor and do hereby give
my consent without reservation to Penn State on behalf of such minor child.
Name (print) Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian Date
81
Communicable Disease Update
82
CLINICAL POLICIES
All students in the BSN Program will be required to complete clinical learning experiences to fulfill the
requirements of the baccalaureate degree in nursing. Please be advised that the following policies are
applicable to all students, and failure to meet any clinical requirements will impact progression and timely
completion of the program. Policies may represent requirements of the clinical facilities, the Ross and Carol
Nese College of Nursing and/or the University.
PRECLUDED STUDENTS FROM CLINICAL INSTITUTION
All students will be expected to comply with all requirements set forth by the clinical institution, including their
code of conduct. The institution reserves the right to prevent entry or request withdrawal from the clinical site
any student the institution believes constitutes a risk of harm to patients, visitors or employees or who fails to
follow the institution’s policies and procedures.
If students are precluded from a clinical site by an institution, the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has
no obligation to find an alternative clinical site for the student, and this may prevent the student from
progressing in the Nursing Program.
PATIENT CARE
The student nurse will not discriminate while providing nursing services on the basis of age, marital status, sex,
sexual preference, race, religion, diagnosis, socioeconomic status or disability. This is in accordance with
Pennsylvania Code Title 49. Professional and Vocational Standards 21.18.
CLINICAL SAFETY POLICY
When health issues (physical or psychological) are involved, both student and client safety will be considered.
• Student is advised to consult with the nursing faculty member or adviser regarding health-related issues that
may put either student or client in danger
• All requirements of the clinical institution will be followed. Clinical institutions may require the student to
provide evidence from his/her healthcare provider that the student may participate without restriction in all
clinical activities, and that the student’s health concerns will not negatively impact students and clients
o The student may need to withdraw from nursing courses in order to allow time to receive
treatment and improve his/her health condition and to maintain the safety of clients. Refer to
University Leave of Absence https://www.registrar.psu.edu/enrollment/leaving/leave-
absence.cfm) and Withdrawal
(https://www.registrar.psu.edu/enrollment/leaving/withdrawal.cfm) policies
• Specific policies related to health follow
Approved Fall 2011
83
IMPAIRED STUDENT NURSE POLICY
I. POLICY
The intent of this Policy is to offer assistance to those who are in need, while sending a clear
message that all students enrolled in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (“Nese
CON”) at The Pennsylvania State University (“The University”) are strictly prohibited from
possessing or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs while engaged in any Clinical
Activities.
II. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE AND INTENTION
A. Students enrolled in the Nese CON at the undergraduate and graduate level engage in
clinical rotations and training on the campus of The University and at various types of
healthcare facilities, including, but not limited to, University skills or simulation
laboratories, hospitals, private practice offices, long-term care facilities, clinics, schools
and community agencies.
B. Drug and alcohol use may adversely affect the educational process and the quality of care
provided by students in the clinical setting. Drug and alcohol use may also pose serious
safety and health risks to the student, patients and others.
C. The University and the Nese CON require all nursing students engaged in Clinical
Activities be free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.
D. This Policy is enacted in accordance with a position statement on the subject of substance
abuse in nursing education published by the American Association of Colleges of
Nursing, and the standards set forth in Pennsylvania’s Professional Nursing Law (63 P.S.
§ 224, et. seq.).
E. This policy is not intended to apply to the use or possession of prescribed or over-the-
counter drugs and/or drug paraphernalia, if legally obtained, used for the purpose for
which it was prescribed or manufactured, and if taken at the prescribed or authorized
dosage; provided that use of the drug and/or drug paraphernalia does not does not violate
any federal law or interfere with the safe and efficient performance of the Student’s
Clinical Activities.
F. Penn State complies with the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act
Amendments of 1989 ( https://policy.psu.edu/policies/ad87 ). Pursuant to this Act, all
forms of marijuana, including medical marijuana, are classified as prohibited controlled
substances. Additionally, alcohol, illegal drugs, and legal drugs obtained without a
prescription or which may impair a student’s ability to perform his/her educational
responsibilities are strictly prohibited. Students are subject to drug screening as part of
their required nursing compliances. A positive drug screening for marijuana will be
deemed a positive test and will result in a student being dismissed from the program, even
if the student has been lawfully certified to use medical marijuana and/or possesses a valid
medical marijuana identification card issued in accordance with applicable state law.
III. DEFINITIONS
A. “Alcohol” means beer, wine and all forms of distilled liquor containing ethyl alcohol.
B. “Clinical Activities” shall refer to those duties or activities required of Nese CON
students, whether on the campus of The Pennsylvania State University or at an outside
Host Facility, which involve direct patient care or interaction with a patient or research
84
subject for purposes of medical care, treatment, or testing, and/or as part of a Clinical
Program.
C. “Clinical Program” shall refer to the assignment of Nese CON students to healthcare
facilities, University skills or simulation laboratories, etc., for the purpose of gaining
practical experience and/or engaging in patient care, in fulfillment of degree or course
requirements.
D. “Drug” means hallucinogenic or narcotic drugs or other drugs/substances which tend to
impair judgment or coordination including, but not limited to, substances controlled by
State or Federal laws.
E. “Drug Paraphernalia” means all equipment, products, and materials of any kind, which are
used for injecting, ingesting, inhaling or otherwise introducing a drug into the human
body. This includes, but is not limited to, all equipment, products and materials
prohibited or controlled by State or Federal laws.
F. “Host Facility” shall mean any place other than a campus of The Pennsylvania State
University where a student is engaged in Clinical Activities in fulfillment of degree or
course requirements, including but not limited to healthcare facilities, hospitals, physician
offices, long-term care facilities, clinics, schools and community agencies.
G. “Student” is an undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in the Nese CON.
H. “Clinical Instructor/Supervisor” is the person the Nese CON assigned to oversee a student
while engaged in performance of a Clinical Program and/or while engaged in Clinical
Activities. Clinical Instructors are faculty employed by Penn State Nese CON.
Supervisors are employees of the facility at which a Clinical Program takes place.
Note: Defined terms are capitalized herein.
IV. DRUG AND ALCOHOL POSSESSION AND USE
A. Prohibitions. Except as provided in paragraph C below:
1. No Student engaged in Clinical Activities shall use, consume, transport, possess or sell
Alcohol, Drugs or Drug Paraphernalia while on the site of a Clinical Program, or
while engaged in Clinical Activities.
2. No Student may report to the premises of a Clinical Program or remain on duty, or
engage in any Clinical Activities, while under the influence of or impaired by Alcohol
or Drugs, to any degree. This is a zero tolerance policy.
3. This policy is not directly applicable to Students who are in traditional classroom/
lecture situation; however, all Students of The University are prohibited from being
under the influence of Alcohol or Drugs while taking part in on-campus activities and
violations of this nature may be subject to sanctions under the Student Code of
Conduct and/or other University or Nese CON rules and regulations.
B. Exceptions. The following circumstances may constitute exceptions to this Policy:
1. Prescribed and over-the-counter drugs. The use or possession of prescribed or over-
the-counter drugs and/or drug paraphernalia is not prohibited by this Policy, if legally
obtained, used for the purpose for which it was prescribed or manufactured, and if
taken at the prescribed or authorized dosage; provided that use of the drug and/or drug
paraphernalia does not violate any federal law or interfere with the safe and efficient
performance of the Student’s Clinical Activities.
85
2. Legitimate distribution of medications. The prohibitions set forth in this Policy do not
apply to legitimate distribution of medication as may be an assigned duty in a clinical
program.
C. Students who participate in Clinical Programs at outside facilities are subject to the rules
and regulations of the Host Facility and Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of
Nursing. This may include drug and/or alcohol testing. Testing for illegal drugs or
alcohol may be required by the Host Facility prior to commencement of a clinical
program, on a random basis, following an accident, or upon observation of conduct which
may be indicative of drug or alcohol use. Neither the University nor the Nese CON has
control over the manner in which testing is carried out by a Host Facility. If a test
indicates the presence of illegal drugs or alcohol, and if the test results are provided to the
Nese CON, this information will be utilized in the manner set forth herein.
V. PROCEDURES
A. Failure to cooperate with the procedures set forth herein may result in termination of a
Student’s clinical program, which will carry with it serious consequences for the Student’s
ability to complete his or her course of study in the Nese CON.
B. In order to assure compliance with this Policy and as a condition of continuing to
participate in Clinical Activities and/or a Clinical Program, Students are required to
cooperate with the procedures outlined herein, including Drug and Alcohol testing. Such
tests may be administered upon a finding of reasonable suspicion that a Student has used
Drugs or Alcohol while engaged in Clinical Activities. Reasonable suspicion shall be
determined by the Clinical Instructor/Supervisor, based upon various factors, including
but not limited to observation of signs or symptoms commonly associated with
intoxication, such as: impaired mental ability, inability to maintain balance, odor of
alcohol, boisterous or slurred speech, drowsiness, dilated pupils, staggering, awkward
movements or erratic behavior. In making a determination of reasonable suspicion, the
Clinical Instructor/Supervisor may take into account observations of lay persons, other
staff or faculty of the Nese CON and/or healthcare professionals.
C. When finding of reasonable suspicion is made, the following steps will be implemented
by the Nese CON.
1. If the student appears to be medically unstable (i.e. is obtunded, falling down, lashing
out at people, etc.), the student will be sent to the nearest emergency room. If no
emergency room is in the clinical site, an ambulance will be called.
2. If the student appears medically stable, the Clinical Instructor/Supervisor shall instruct
the student to leave the clinical area and will address the student in private to discuss
the behavior(s) observed. If the supervisor is a non-PSU preceptor or supervisor,
contact the course or clinical instructor assigned to the student.
3. If at any time during this process, the Clinical Instructor is not able to adequately
manage other students in the clinical group, they should be sent home, citing an
emergency situation that requires the Clinical Instructor attention.
4. The Clinical Instructor will specifically inquire about whether the student has used
drugs or alcohol and if so, the details of such use.
5. The Clinical Instructor shall consult with the Campus Nursing Program Coordinator
for undergraduate students or the Graduate Option Coordinator, for graduate students,
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as practicable, and shall make a determination as to whether to refer the Student for
Drug and Alcohol testing. If the program coordinator is not available, the Clinical
Instructor will consult with another nursing administrative person or faculty member
at the Nese CON or campus. The decision to send the student for testing will
preferably be made with consultation of at least one other administrative person who
has assessed the student face to face or has consulted via phone. In the event that
another person is not available, the clinical instructor will make the decision
independently.
6. If the decision is made to send the Student for testing, the Student shall be notified that
he or she will be tested for the presence of Drugs and/or Alcohol. The Nese CON will
incur costs associated with the initial testing only. A student who refuses to undergo
testing shall be presumed to have violated this policy. Transportation for both the
student and the faculty person to and from the location for testing (see Urine Drug
Screen Clinic Sites) will be arranged and paid for by the Nese CON. The Student will
be accompanied by a Nese CON representative and one other person at all times
during transportation to the testing site.
7. Each location will determine appropriate safe travel arrangements keeping in mind
that two responsible adults must be in the vehicle with the student.
8. After testing is completed, the Nese CON will arrange for the student to be transported
home or to the home of a family member or friend. The student will be counseled
against driving and encouraged to arrange to be accompanied by a family member or
friend. If the student is unable or unwilling to call a family member or friend to
transport them home, transportation will be arranged and paid by the Nese CON. The
PSU representative will remain with the student until transportation is obtained.
9. Tests shall be accomplished via urine sample, or other reliable method. The testing
process will be carried out pursuant to the testing protocols of the clinical agency or
the University’s Office of Occupational Medicine. Samples shall be collected by the
clinical agency or the designated screening clinic of the University’s Office of
Occupational Medicine. A split sample shall be collected. Test results will be
interpreted by the University’s Medical Review Officer, who shall verify
documentation of appropriate chain of custody and shall make the determination of
whether a test is positive for the presence of Drugs or Alcohol. A negative result on a
test will not necessitate further testing and no further action shall be taken. In the case
of a positive test, the Student shall be contacted by the Medical Review Officer, who
shall determine whether there is any legitimate explanation for the positive test. If no
legitimate explanation can be verified by the Medical Review Officer, the Student
shall be given the option of having the second sample tested, at the expense of the
Student. If testing of the second sample yields a negative result, no further action shall
be taken. The Medical Review Officer shall advise the appropriate Associate Dean of
the Nese CON of testing results. NOTE: If testing is necessary during a time that the
screening clinic is closed, testing will be done at the Clinical agency, if possible, and
results will be obtained by the University’s Office of Occupational Medicine.
10. The University will make reasonable efforts to maintain confidentiality in the
administrative handling of matters relating to Student Drug and Alcohol testing.
11. The Clinical Instructor/Supervisor will prepare a written report documenting the
observed Student behaviors and submit same to the Campus Nursing Program
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Coordinator for undergraduate students or the Graduate Option Coordinator, for
graduate students, and the appropriate Associate Dean of the Nese CON.
D. A Student who has been sent for a Drug and Alcohol test shall be suspended from
participation in Clinical Activities until the results are returned. Test results shall be
provided by the Medical Review Officer to the appropriate Associate Dean of the Nese
CON. If the results are negative, the Student shall be permitted to resume his or her
regular Clinical Activities immediately. If the test results are positive for the presence of
Drugs or Alcohol, or if the Student refused to submit to testing, the following steps shall
be followed.
1. A meeting will be held, within a reasonable period of time, with the Student, the
Clinical Instructor involved and the Campus Nursing Program Coordinator for
undergraduate students or the Graduate Option Coordinator, for graduate students to
discuss the incident, allow all parties to provide any relevant information, and to
discuss sanctions and/or academic consequences related to the alleged violation.
Sanctions may include suspension from all Clinical Programs, a failing grade for a
given course, or for repeat offenders, dismissal from the Nese CON.
2. The Student will execute a written agreement to seek an initial drug and alcohol
consultation at Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and/or a drug and
alcohol evaluation with a certified or licensed professional capable of providing this
service. The Student must sign an informed consent form to allow release of the
evaluation results to be provided to the appropriate Associate Dean of the Nese CON.
The Student shall be required to follow any treatment plan which may be
recommended as a result of the substance abuse evaluation. Refusal to undergo
substance abuse evaluation or failure to comply with any recommended treatment may
result in the Student’s dismissal from the Nese CON. Following successful
completion of any such treatment plan and/or upon certification by an appropriate
substance abuse counselor that the Student is fit to return to Clinical Activities, the
Student shall be permitted to resume full participation in the Nese CON curriculum.
3. The fact of a positive test result shall be conveyed by the Nese CON to the Office of
Student Accountability and Conflict Response for evaluation of whether the behavior
has violated the Student Code of Conduct. The Office of Student Accountability and
Conflict Response will investigate and process the matter in accordance with standard
University procedures and the Student Code of Conduct. The Designee or staff from
the Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response will investigate the
allegation and when it appears that a violation may have occurred, the Student will be
subject to the University’s disciplinary process. The Nese CON will be notified of the
outcome of this process.
4. Any student who has a positive drug screen confirmed must contact the Pennsylvania
Nurse Peer Assistance Program (PNAP) as part of the evaluation process. If the
student is diagnosed with abuse or dependence of a substance, the student must enroll
with PNAP monitoring.
VI. APPEALS
A. A Student may appeal sanctions by sending a written statement of the basis for the appeal
to the appropriate Associate Dean of the Nese CON, within ten (10) days after the action
which is being appealed. The Student’s written appeal shall succinctly set forth the basis
for the appeal, with supporting documentation, as appropriate.
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B. Within a reasonable period of time after the filing of an appeal, the appropriate Associate
Dean of the Nese CON shall convene a meeting with the Student in an attempt to
amicably resolve the matter. If no resolution can be reached, the appropriate Associate
Dean of the Nese CON shall convene a hearing committee, consisting of three (3) faculty
members from the Nese CON, one of whom shall serve as committee chair. The hearing
shall be convened as soon as practicable. The following rules shall apply to the hearing:
1. The purpose of the hearing is one of fact finding.
2. The committee shall have full authority to conduct the hearing in a manner that is fair,
efficient, and respectful.
3. Formal rules of evidence do not apply, but irrelevant, immaterial or unduly repetitious
evidence may be excluded at the discretion of the committee.
4. In light of the nature and spirit of the proceeding, representation by legal counsel is
prohibited.
5. The hearing shall be closed, meaning that no one beyond the persons involved in the
hearing will be admitted.
6. Participants shall include the Student and the Clinical Instructor who observed or was
involved in the incident in question. Others with knowledge of the circumstances in
question may be permitted to participate, with the permission of the chair of the
committee.
7. The Clinical Instructor will address the committee first, followed by the Student. The
committee may ask questions of the Clinical Instructor and the Student. The Clinical
Instructor or faculty member and the Student may also ask questions of each other, in
a polite and respectful manner.
8. Requests for additional information may be made by the committee to the faculty
member and the Student.
9. At the conclusion of the hearing, the committee shall dismiss the participants and
deliberate in private. The committee members shall then vote on the outcome of the
hearing, with each member having one vote. The chair of the committee will inform
the Student of committee’s decision within one business day after the hearing.
10. The decision of the committee shall be final.
VII. REINSTATEMENT TO CLINICAL PROGRAM/ACTIVITIES
A. As a condition for being considered for reinstatement to a Clinical Program and/or
participation in Clinical Activities, Students must consent to release to the Nese CON the
findings, reports and/or recommendations of any drug and alcohol counselors, physicians,
psychiatrists, psychologist, etc. as well as the outcome of any actions undertaken by the
Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response.
B. A Student who has been removed from a Clinical Program for a violation of this Policy
shall be permitted to return to the Clinical Program upon fulfillment of the following
conditions:
1. Expiration of any academic suspension or disciplinary suspension.
2. Written documentation of successful completion of all drug and alcohol services
recommended or any recommendations by the Office of Student Accountability and
Conflict Response.
3. Agreement to voluntarily participate in random Drug or Alcohol screening, the cost of
which must be paid by the Student.
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C. A Student’s return to any Clinical Program at a non-Penn State Host Facility will be
contingent upon re-acceptance by the Host Facility.
VIII. ASSISTANCE TO STUDENTS WITH DRUG OR ALCOHOL PROBLEMS
Students with drug or alcohol problems, whether or not engaged in Clinical Activities, are
encouraged to voluntarily seek assistance through University’s Center for Counseling &
Psychological Services. Professors, instructors and advisers in the Nese CON will assist
Students with referrals, as requested.
NOTE: Any situation that may arise that does not fall within the policy guidelines will be
addressed on a case by case basis, in consultation with the Ross and Carol Nese College of
Nursing, University Occupational Medicine and University Risk Management.
Approved Fall 2005
Revised Fall 2009
Revised Spring, 2013; Jan 2018; Oct 2021
INFECTIOUS DISEASE POLICY
Clinical Agencies
A. Clinical agencies utilized by the Ross and Carol Nese College for clinical practice experiences are
to have written infection control plans designed to minimize or eliminate exposure to infectious
disease.
B. The clinical agency’s infection control plan shall include:
1. A schedule and method of implementing the infection control plan.
2. A schedule for reviewing and updating the plan to reflect significant changes in tasks,
policies, and procedures.
3. A method of dealing with and documenting occupational exposure.
C. Clinical agencies are required to make the infection control plan available to the College’s
administration for examination and copying.
Standard Precautions and Isolation Practices
All students will follow standard precautions and second tier isolation practices as defined by the
CDC and the agency policy and procedures to minimize exposure to infectious disease.
Accidental Exposure, Post Exposure, and Follow-up
A. Clinical agencies utilized by the College for clinical practice experiences are to have written post-
exposure plans including follow-up of the exposed faculty or student including antibody or
antigen testing, testing of the source patient, counseling, illness reporting, and safe and effective
post-exposure prophylaxis according to standard CDC recommendations and Pennsylvania State
Law.
B. In the event of significant exposure to blood or body fluid, defined by the CDC as: “a
percutaneous injury (e.g., needlestick or cut with a sharp object) or contact of mucous membrane
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or nonintact skin (e.g., exposed skin that is chapped, abraded, or with dermatitis) with blood,
saliva, tissue, or other body fluids that are potentially infectious”,
The nursing student will:
1. Immediately and thoroughly wash or rinse (if mucous membrane) the exposed area
2. Report the incident to the clinical instructor
The clinical instructor will:
1. Report the incident immediately to the appropriate representative at the clinical facility
2. Facilitate completion of the steps for follow-up as outlined by the policies and procedures at
the clinical facility.
Note: All testing and/or treatment after exposure will be at the student’s expense.
Revised: 11/06
RETURN TO CLINICAL
Students enrolled in clinical courses who require surgery, hospitalization, under the care of a
physician post-accident, or sick for an extended period of time (5 or more business days) must
provide verification from a physician that the student may return to clinical activities without
restrictions. In addition, any student with limitations or the use of an assisted device will be required
to follow the clinical institution’s policy.
Approved: 10/2009
Revised 12/2017
STUDENT PREGNANCY POLICY
For the safety of the pregnant student, she should be aware of potential risks related to some learning
experiences such as, but not limited to, communicable disease[s], strenuous activity, toxic substances
including radiation, and the potential for bodily harm. The student should consult with her faculty
member prior to the clinical experience to be made aware of any clinical agency policies related to
pregnant individuals such as not entering where radiation therapy is being administered. Neither The
Pennsylvania State University nor its affiliating clinical agencies assume responsibility for any harm
that might occur to a fetus or a pregnant student.
Approved: 11/04
TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM CLINICAL AGENCIES POLICY
All nursing majors have clinical experiences in a variety of settings that involve travel to a clinical
site. The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing requires that students assume responsibility for
providing their own transportation to and from clinical sites. The use of a car and/or carpooling is a
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necessity.
STUDENT DRESS CODE POLICY
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has adopted the following dress code guidelines for
students while in the clinical or simulation lab setting:
1. Students must purchase uniforms from the College’s designated uniform vendor.
2. Various shirts and ONLY navy skirts/pants may be worn.
3. Plain white or navy tee shirts or turtlenecks may be worn under current uniform.
4. Lab coats and Penn State polo shirts may be required for some clinical experiences. If lab coats or
polo shirts are required, they must be purchased through the College’s approved vendor and have the
College’s logo on them.
5. A PSU name pin and/or site specific photo ID should be worn and visible above the waist. The
student’s given first name and last name with PSSN (Student Nurse) following will appear on the top
line and “Penn State University” on the second line. Name pins must be purchased from a designated
campus vendor.
6. Shoes must be mostly white, with white laces only. Professional shoes or leather athletic shoes
with neutral color accents are acceptable. Students are advised not to purchase clogs or crocs because
they are prohibited in some institutions. High-top athletic shoes may not be worn. The shoe of choice
may not have any openings.
7. White hose without patterns are to be worn by females when wearing navy blue skirts. White socks
without patterns or decorations may be worn with slacks.
8. Cardigan sweaters (only) may be worn, either navy or white (as ordered from the vendor).
9. In the clinical area, the following is not acceptable:
• Smelling of strong perfume, aftershave, colognes, and/or cigarette smoke
• Chewing gum
• Heavy make-up
• Fingernails must be kept short and well-groomed. No acrylic nails, gel tips or dark colored
nail polish is permitted.
• Jewelry - no dangling earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings (other than wedding bands)
are permitted. Medical Alert bracelets are permitted. No obvious body piercings,
including nose, eyebrows, tongue, and lip are permitted. Ears are limited to one post
earring per ear. Flesh tone plugs instead of jewelry is permitted.
• Hair must be neatly worn off the collar. No unnatural hair color (ex. bright green, bright
blue) is permitted (. Large ornamental hair attachments are not considered proper when in
uniform. Hairbands are limited to 2 inches in width and must be white, navy blue, or black
in color. Male students should be clean shaven or have neatly trimmed beards or
mustaches.
• Tattoos may be visible unless a clinical site has a policy of no visible tattoos: then the
student must abide by that policy and conceal any tattoos. Tattoos that may be offensive to
patients, co-workers, or visitors or that contain the following must be covered: profanity,
nudity, violence, racial references, alcohol, and/or controlled substances.
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10. Students involved in clinical courses (for example: Community Health, Mental Health, Care of
Children) will sometimes wear appropriate street attire as defined by the faculty and/or facility. Blue
jeans, sweat shirts, sweat pants, tank tops, t-shirts, halter tops, shorts, yoga / exercise pants and other
tight or revealing clothing may not be worn. The name pin must be visible at all times.
Note: Additional requirements related to attire or behavior in the hospital or other clinical areas may
be made by any faculty member responsible for class or clinical instruction (e.g. some religions do
not allow women to wear pants). Violations of the dress code may result in the student being asked to
leave the clinical area. Also, dress code violations will be reflected in the student’s clinical
evaluation.
Approved: Summer 2008
Revised: Summer 2009
Revised: Spring 2015
Revised: Spring 2019; Effective Summer 2019
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SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
The Social Media policy provides Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON)
students with rules to participate in social media, including Penn State Nese CON’s social media and
in non-Penn State Nese CON social media.
Definition: Social Media is a conventional term of electronic communication through which users
create online communities to share information, ideas, personal messages, email, or video hosting
sites.
First and foremost, all nursing students must recognize their ethical and legal obligation to maintain
patient privacy and confidentiality at all times. As a nursing student it is important to represent Penn
State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing in a fair, accurate and legal manner while protecting
the College’s reputation.
1. Students may be held personally liable for proprietary, defamatory or libelous material posted on
any form of social media.
2. Students will face sanctions for posting of materials that is defamatory, profane, threatening,
harassing, hateful or humiliating to patient, students, hospital staff, preceptors, nurses, Penn State
faculty and staff, employers and co-workers included. Sanction will be determined by the
University Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response, the Nese CON Academic
Integrity Committee, or the appropriate Nese CON Academic Administrator.
3. Improper use of social media may result in being sued for defamation, invasion of privacy or
harassment.
4. Occurrences of inappropriate use of social and electronic media may be submitted to the State
Board of Nursing, which may affect licensure or eligibility for licensure.
5. The use of pseudonymous email addresses or online identities can be investigated and traced, so
their use does not protect the student from responsibility and any liabilities related to posting
online materials and or social media.
6. Students must promptly report any identifiable breach of confidentiality of privacy in regard to
self, other nurses and /or other nursing students.
7. Students must be knowledgeable of hospital and healthcare institution policies, relevant state and
federal laws and professional standards regarding patient privacy and confidentiality and their
application to social and electronic media.
8. The Nese CON may take action to dismiss any student from the Nursing Program who violates
the social media statement.
9. Students may not transmit any electronic media of any patient-related information or image that
violates patient rights to confidentiality or privacy or to otherwise degrade or embarrass the
patient and/or families.
10. Students must not share, post or otherwise disseminate any information (including images) about
a patient or information gained in the nurse-patient relationship with anyone, unless there is care-
related need to disclose the information or other legal obligation to do so.
11. Students must not use social media during clinical hours or at any time on the clinical agency’s
equipment or property.
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References:
ANA (2011). Principles for social networking and the nurse.
ANA (2011). Six tips for nurses using social media.
Carlow University School of Nursing, Social Media Policy (with permission)
National Council State Board of Nursing (2011). White paper: A nurse’s guide to the use of social
media.
Approved by Undergraduate Affairs: Fall 2013
Approved by Graduate Affairs: June 2013
USE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES IN CLINICAL POLICY
This policy is to establish guidelines for appropriate and professional use of electronic devices (e.g.
cell phones, smart phones, tablets, computers) during clinical by nursing students. “Clinical” is
defined as the various settings utilized in any clinical nursing course (for example, skills laboratory,
acute care facilities, sub-acute care and rehabilitation facilities, long-term care facilities, clinics and
physician offices, and community settings). Students must first adhere to the policies of the
clinical facility, as well as this Nese CON policy, regarding the use of electronic devices in clinical
settings.
If electronic devices are approved for use according to clinical facility policy, the following
restrictions apply:
• Electronic devices may only be used for clinically-related reasons as approved by each
clinical instructor and/or course coordinator.
• All devices must be kept on “silent” or “vibrate” mode in the clinical setting.
• Use of electronic devices for personal communication (e.g. email, text, social media) or other
personal reasons unrelated to clinical is strictly prohibited.
• Taking any voice recordings, photographs or videos during clinical is strictly prohibited.
• Students are responsible for adhering to the federal Health Insurance Portability and
Accountability Act (HIPAA) and Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health
(HITECH) regulations regarding protected health information. Students may not download or
store any confidential client data on a personal electronic device.
Violations of this Nese CON policy and/or the policy of the clinical facility may result in clinical
remediation or failure.
Approved: Spring 2008
Revised: Fall 2015
(Formerly Clinical Cell Phone Policy)
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CLINICAL CANCELLATION GUIDELINES
(Includes: Inclement weather, other disasters)
1. Penn State’s decision to delay or cancel classes is almost always because of hazardous travel
conditions. If bad weather requires the University to cancel classes, the local radio and television
stations are informed.
2. Decisions are campus-specific (e.g. cancellation of classes at Altoona Campus but not
Harrisburg). Students will need to use their best judgement and communicate about clinical
attendance with their clinical preceptors.
3. If your campus cancels the next day’s classes the day or night before clinical, then clinical is
cancelled. For example, if on Tuesday the University cancels classes for Wednesday, then
Wednesday clinical is cancelled.
4. If faculty and students are already at the clinical facility when the campus classes are cancelled,
then the instructor will decide, based on current and anticipated weather/travel conditions,
whether clinical should be cancelled.
5. If the campus has not cancelled classes, clinical may still be cancelled if hazardous travel
conditions exist. In this instance, Faculty will evaluate the weather and travel situation of their
specific clinical facility/location and notify students according to an established student
notification process previously communicated with the class.
6. Students must additionally use their own best judgment in traveling when clinical is not
cancelled. Faculty cannot know all weather/travel conditions if the student is traveling from
outside the immediate area.
7. Bottom line—Safety First!
SIMULATION LABORATORY PRACTICE OPTION
Students are able to schedule times in the simulation laboratory to practice specific skills. Prior to
attending, students should contact the simulation coordinator and/or simulation laboratory assistant to
inform them of the skills that need to be reviewed and to arrange a time.
Approved April 2018
CLINICAL FAILURE POLICY
At the completion of the semester, a student who receives an unsatisfactory clinical performance
rating in the final clinical evaluation on any one (1) criterion measured by the Student Clinical
Performance Evaluation tool is deemed unsafe or inadequate in the application of knowledge that is
expected at the course level. This unsatisfactory rating will denote clinical failure and subsequent
course failure.
Students who fail a clinical course will be required to repeat the clinical course at a different campus
site. Assignments for repeat course work will be scheduled at the site based on the specific learning
experience needed by the student. Exceptions must be approved by the Associate Dean for
Undergraduate Education and the Nursing Program Coordinator.
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If a required nursing course is not successfully completed, academic progression in the Nursing
Program will be affected and the student may need to step out of the Nursing Program for an entire
academic year based on the course offering schedule (nursing courses are offered during specific
semesters). Please consult the Suggested Academic Plan.
GUIDELINES FOR USING THE CLINICAL EVALUATION TOOL
AND REMEDIATION FORM
• Faculty must address every objective on the Student Clinical Performance Evaluation tool; none
may be left blank. Faculty are to review the course objectives and consult with other faculty in the
same course to be sure that they are all interpreting the evaluation objectives similarly and in
relation to the course objectives. The category “not observed” is to be utilized only if the
individual evaluation objectives are interpreted to lie outside of the course objectives.
• Faculty are encouraged to include both positive and constructive anecdotal information in the
comment sections of the evaluation tool. Both comments and anecdotal information are to be
dated.
• Faculty members must substantiate all failing grades with anecdotal information in the comment
section.
• When a student receives a failing grade in any objective, the faculty member must identify
measurable behaviors the student must demonstrate in order to bring the grade up to a passing
level. A remediation plan to meet these objectives will be jointly prepared by the faculty member
and the student. The faculty member and student must both sign the plan, a copy is given to the
student and the original is attached to the evaluation form.
• In the mid-semester and final evaluation sections of the tool, the faculty member must identify the
strengths and weaknesses of the student. These comments must pertain to the listed objectives.
Faculty members are to identify those students who are minimally meeting the clinical objectives
of the course in these written sections, both for the benefit of the students and the benefit of other
faculty members who may have cause to review the evaluations in the future.
• It is not necessary to wait until the mid-semester or final evaluation to identify areas of deficiency
and initiate remediation plans. Faculty are encouraged to meet with students and develop
remediation plans at any point in the semester. Such interactions are to be documented on
remediation plans and attached to the evaluation form.
• In the event that the existing objectives fail to address specific course and/or clinical objectives, it
is acceptable for faculty to attach an addendum with a few additional objectives, organized using
the categories and format of the current tool. Faculty members will distribute all additional
course-specific objectives to students at the beginning of the semester.
For detailed information on the Clinical Performance Evaluation Remediation Forms process, refer to
the Clinical Performance Evaluation Remediation Forms Index.
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ACADEMIC SUCCESS
DEFINITION OF GRADES
For undergraduates, the grades of A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, D, and F indicate a gradation in quality
from excellence to failure and are assigned the following grade-point equivalents:
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON) Grading Scale
Grade
Grade-Point Equivalent
Nese CON Grading Scale
A
4.00
94-100
A-
3.67
90-93
B+
3.33
87-89
B
3.00
83-86
B-
2.67
80-82
C+
2.33
77-79
C
2.00
75-76
D
1.00
68-74
F
0
Below 68
NURSING COURSE EXAMINATION ROUNDING POLICY
Purpose: To provide a consistent method of calculating individual grades that utilizes standard
rounding practices and is equitable and fair for all students in all courses in the Nese CON.
A student must achieve a minimal final course grade of [75% for UG and 83% for Grad] for
successful completion of the course. Each individual examination score is reported to the hundredth
place, e.g. 92.76 and not rounded up. Only the final course grade will be rounded up. A final course
grade of X.50 will be rounded to the next highest whole number (example 72.50 = 73). A final
course grade of X .49 would not round up (example 72.49 = 72).
Procedure:
• All individual course grades are recorded throughout the semester to the nearest 100
th
(2
decimal places with no rounding)
• Individual grades are then added and weighted for a final grade
• Only the final course grade is rounded to the nearest whole number using standard
mathematical rounding
Note: Standard mathematical rounding requires at least 0.50 to round up, so for example
74.49 would not round up to 75 it would round down to 74. Rounding 74.49 up to 75 is
referred to as double rounding and is not mathematically correct.
Effective Spring 2016
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ACADEMIC SUCCESS PROGRAM
Academic Success Program
Overview:
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing’s Academic Success Plan is a proactive approach to
support academic achievement. Students, in collaboration with the Academic Success Coach and the
nursing faculty, are strongly encouraged to actively participate in the Academic Success Plan for
nursing courses beginning at the second year level. The Academic Success Coach is a faculty
member who has a particular interest in the areas of student retention and academic support. The
Academic Success Coach acts as a resource to students and can be accessed directly by the student at
any time. Additionally, a course coordinator or clinical instructor may refer a student to the
Academic Success Coach for assistance based on course or clinical performance.
The Academic Success Coach works in conjunction with the student to address specific academic
performance issues such as test taking strategies, study skills, and class preparation. Because
clinical performance is an important aspect of nursing education, a Clinical Success Plan can be
developed to help support clinical skill acquisition. In addition, the Academic Success Coach works
with the individual student to identify any specific barriers to performance such as finances, time
management, and social supports. The Academic Success Coach will guide the student in accessing
University resources to address any identified concerns.
Participation in the Academic Success Plan is voluntary and student accountability is recognized as
an important characteristic of academic success. The student is responsible for follow through and
completion of an Academic Success Plan.
The Success Team:
The Academic Success Team consists of the student, course coordinators and clinical faculty, the
Academic Success Coach and professionals from a variety of campus resources. The roles are
defined as follows:
Student - The Academic Success Plan is student driven. Students desire success and at
times may need support to reach their fullest potential. Students have the option to initiate an
Academic Success Plan to address any need impacting their academic performance. In
addition, participation in the Academic Success Plan will be encouraged by faculty and the
Success Coach, but ultimately the decision to participate in this program is up to the student.
Because everyone’s time and resources are valuable, it is expected that students will be
clear regarding their commitment to follow through with an Academic Success Plan. It is the
student’s responsibility to schedule and attend appointments and to maintain communication
with faculty and others involved in their Academic Success Plan.
Course Coordinators - The Course Coordinator in all nursing courses will encourage
students who earn less than a 77% on an examination or assignment worth 10% or more of
the final course grade to develop an Academic Success Plan. The Course Coordinator is the
content expert and will work with the student to review exams and identify gaps in
knowledge and test taking skills. The Course Coordinator will be available to students by
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appointment and at designated times. It is the student’s responsibility to set up and attend
appointments and to maintain communication related to the Academic Success Plan.
Clinical Faculty - The Clinical Faculty in all nursing courses may recommend a Clinical
Success Plan at any time during a clinical course. The Clinical Faculty will recommend
areas for review and practice. The student will schedule time for review, practice, and
demonstration during available Simulation and Skills Lab times. It is the student’s
responsibility to review and come to these sessions prepared for focused practice and
demonstration. It is important to note that a Clinical Success Plan IS NOT a Clinical
Remediation Plan.
Academic Success Coach - The Academic Success Coach is a faculty member with a special
interest in supporting students to achieve their academic goals. The Academic Success
Coach is a resource available to all nursing students through scheduled appointments and
designated office hours. The Academic Success Coach can assist in areas such as test-taking
strategies, identifying barriers to learning, accessing resources to enhance academic
performance, and contributing to the support system of the student. It is the student’s
responsibility to schedule and attend appointments and to maintain communication with the
Coach.
6/1/2016
Revised 8/1/2016, 8/1/2017
Types of Plans:
Course Assignment or Assessment Grade <77% - Students earning a grade of <77% on
any assignment or assessment worth 10% or more of the final grade will be referred to the
Academic Success Coach. This referral occurs through an email process originating from the
Course Coordinator to the Student and Academic Success Coach.
General – Any faculty can refer a student to the Academic Success Coach for concerns
regarding academic performance even if the student has not earned a grade <77%. In
addition, a student may do a self-referral to the Academic Success Coach at any time.
Clinical- The Clinical Success Plan is designed to support the development of clinical skill
performance (i.e. PPE, aseptic technique, catheterization). A clinical instructor may refer a
student for further assistance with skill acquisition. THIS PLAN IS NOT A CLINICAL
REMEDIATION PLAN.
Academic Success Coaches – Coaches are located on each campus and will be a valuable
resource as you learn the process of the Academic Success Plan. The Academic Success
Coaches include:
Altoona – Cindy Bowman; Paula Kustenbauder
Harrisburg – Jenn Woodley
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Academic Success Plan
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Academic Success Plan is designed to support
academic achievement. Students, in collaboration with the Academic Success Coach and the
nursing faculty, are strongly encouraged to actively participate in the Academic Success Plan for
theory and clinical components of this course. An Academic Success Plan can be initiated by the
course coordinator, clinical faculty, or the student in conjunction with the Academic Success Coach
for unsuccessful assessment level of your Critical Thinking examination, an exam grade <77%,
clinical skill performance, or any other academic performance issues. Your Academic Success Plan
will differ based on the reason for the referral. For the purposes of the Academic Success Plan, an
exam constitutes any assessment worth 10% or more of the final course grade. Participation in the
Academic Success Plan is voluntary, and the student is responsible for follow through and
completion of the Academic Success Plan.
For detailed information on the Academic Success Plan process, please refer to the Academic
Success Plan Index.
6/1/2016
Revised 8/1/2016, 8/1/2017; 8/14/17
ACADEMIC PROGRESSION
The Nursing curriculum is designed to move the student from a fundamental understanding of basic
concepts to complex critical thinking and application in clinical settings. Academic progression is
designed to support educational success, licensure and transition to practice.
ACADEMIC PROGRESSION POLICY
This policy delineates the academic standards required of students admitted to the pre-licensure*
undergraduate nursing program, which includes two options: the General Bachelor of Science
(GNURS) and the Second Degree Bachelor of Science (SCND). A student is limited to two attempts
for any prerequisite or required nursing course.
**Attempts are defined as earning a grade in a course or late-dropping the course.
A course attempt in one pre-licensure option (GNURS, SCND ) applies to all pre-licensure options.
Academic Renewal and “grade forgiveness” do not negate previously attempted nursing courses. In
a situation where the student withdraws from the University (Policy 56-30) courses will not be
counted as one of the two attempts for the prerequisite or nursing course.
Overall Academic Requirements:
1. Successful completion of the following major requirements (BIOL 161, BIOL 162, BIOL
163, BIOL 164, PSYCH 100, HDFS 129, NUTR 251, CHEM 130 or CHEM 110 and
CHEM 111, MICRB 106, MICRB 107, SOC 1 or SOC 005, STAT 200 or STAT 250) is
defined as a grade of “C” or better according to the University grading scale.
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2. Successful completion of required Nursing courses is defined as a “C” or better according
to the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Grading Scale.
3. All major requirements and required Nursing courses may only be attempted two times.
4. A student who attempts or earns a “D” or “F” in the same major requirement or required
Nursing course for a second time will be dismissed from the Nursing major. Academic
advising relative to other majors/options will be provided.
5. A student who attempts or earns a “D” or “F” in two different required Nursing courses
will be dismissed from the Nursing major. Academic advising relative to other
majors/options will be provided.
6. Students who wish to return to the University after a leave of absence or re-enroll after
withdrawing from the University will follow the Nese CON Re-enrollment/Re-entry policy
available in the Student Handbook (https://www.nursing.psu.edu/student-handbooks/).
7. Any exceptions to the two-attempt limit must be approved by the Dean of the Ross and
Carol Nese College of Nursing.
* Pre-licensure refers to students who do not have an RN license.
Senate approval, Spring 2016
Senate approval of revisions, Fall 2016
STUDENT ACADEMIC DIFFICULTY
One of the responsibilities of the Undergraduate Admissions and Standards Committee is to monitor
the academic progression of students in the nursing curriculum. The committee believes that the
student is ultimately responsible for seeking assistance when experiencing academic difficulty.
However, the student should know that their progress is being monitored and that the faculty is
committed to helping the student achieve success. This plan for early identification and follow-up of
students experiencing academic difficulty is designed to ensure that students are well-informed about
strategies for success, including University resources and assistance.
Plan for Early Identification of Academic Difficulty and Follow-up
1. All students must achieve a “C” or better (75% or greater) in all required nursing courses in the
program.
2. The Chair of the Undergraduate Admissions and Standards Committee will request that all
nursing faculty identify at mid-semester (week 7–8) any student earning less than 75% in the
theory portion of a course, or any student performing below satisfactory levels in clinical.
Faculty who have a course following an alternative time frame (e.g., 7-week or front loading of
clinical) are responsible for notifying the committee about students in academic difficulty at
mid-course.
3. The Chair of the Undergraduate Admissions and Standards Committee will send a letter of
concern to all students who have been identified in academic difficulty.
4. A copy of the letter will be sent to the adviser and course coordinator. The letter will be placed
in the student’s file.
5. Students are responsible for contacting the course coordinator and/or adviser within one week
and for returning the signed form (attached to the letter) to the Academic Affairs Office (210
Nursing Sciences Building) for students at University Park, the Nursing Office (A110 ASB)
for students at Hershey, or the appropriate Nese CON Commonwealth Campus Nursing office.
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6. The Chair of the Committee and the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education will be
informed of all students earning a “D” or “F” in a nursing course. With the first failure, a letter
will be sent to the student from the Chair of the Committee reviewing the academic
progression policy and suggestions for success in future nursing courses. With a second failure,
a letter from the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education will be sent notifying the student
of dismissal from the Nursing Program and will provide advisement information and other
options available.
For detailed information on the Academic Difficulty Notification Letter, please refer to the
Academic Difficulty Notification Letter Index.
Revised: Summer 2012
Revised: Summer 2015
ACADEMIC GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
The following assumptions are acknowledged:
• All members of the University community, students, faculty, and administration have rights
and responsibilities which support Penn State as an institution of higher learning
• Students, faculty, and administration sometimes have differing perceptions of what these
rights and responsibilities are
• Students of the Nursing Program are subject to procedures for resolving grievances of an
academic nature in accordance with The University Faculty Senate Policies and Rules for
Undergraduate Students at http://senate.psu.edu/policies-and-rules-for-undergraduate-
students/
GRADE MEDIATION AND ADJUDICATION
The basis for grades, as stated in Senate Policy 47-20, is "...the instructor's professional judgment of
the student's scholastic achievement..." Occasionally, a disagreement arises in the assignment of a
grade. A student who wishes to question or challenge the grade assigned in a course must follow the
G-10: Grade Mediation and Adjudication Policy (https://undergrad.psu.edu/aappm/G-10-grade-
mediation-adjudication.htm) .
Nursing’s accreditation standards require that the Nese CON must ultimately be responsible for
assigning the nursing course grade. The following is interpretation of grade adjudication for nursing
students:
1. Meet and discuss grading practices and assignments with the course instructor. It is expected
that the student and instructor will try to eliminate any misunderstandings and will attempt to
work out any disagreements over grades.
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2. If unresolved, the student should meet with campus nursing program coordinator to review
the issue and seek resolution
3. If unresolved, the student should seek formal grade adjudication:
a. Complete a Grade Adjudication Petition Form (found here
https://undergrad.psu.edu/aappm/grademed_2020.pdf )
b. For non-UP campus students, submit form to the campus associate dean or director of
academic affairs, who will consult with nursing.
c. For UP/HY students, submit the form to the associate dean of the Nese CON.
4. The petition must be submitted no later than ten weeks following the end date of the course
(as it appears in the schedule of courses).
5. The petition must present clear evidence that the assignment of the grade was based upon
factors other than the academic judgment of the instructor.
6. After review of the petition, the associate dean/director of academic affairs will consult with
nursing and provide the student and the instructor with the recommended course of action.
7. If either the student or the instructor do not accept the recommended course of action from
the associate dean/director of academic affairs, they may appeal the determination within ten
(10) business days.
8. The associate dean at the campus and nursing and/or director of academic affairs will appoint
an ad hoc committee of three (3) faculty with appropriate expertise to determine a grade,
which concludes the adjudication process.
Students should review the G-10 policy (https://undergrad.psu.edu/aappm/G-10-grade-mediation-
adjudication.htm) in its entirety and seek clarification if needed.
Revised January 2020
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NURSING OPPORTUNITIES
PROTOCOL FOR STUDENTS WHO SEEK OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT
• Employment of students in health agencies, in keeping with the State Board of Nursing
regulations, is as follows:
o When students are employed in health agencies, they may not be employed as Registered or
Practical Nurses unless they are currently licensed.
o Student employment shall be on a voluntary basis and not a requirement of the institution.
• The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing personnel are not to promise student services to
outside persons or agencies. This relieves the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing of
liability for contracting independent, unsupervised student services.
• Faculty or staff who receive job opportunities or inquiries from outside agencies (e.g. summer
camps, internships, clinical facilities) may send the request to the student listservs with the
following disclaimer on all emails:
“The Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has no knowledge of, nor
affiliation with, the organization named herein. We can assume no liability in the referral for
short- or long-term employment, nor does this constitute an endorsement.”
Approved Fall 2015
PENN STATE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION / ROSS AND CAROL NESE COLLEGE OF
NURSING ALUMNI SOCIETY
Students who graduate from Penn State University receive a complimentary, one-year membership in
the Penn State Alumni Association (and then have the option to renew annually or with a lifetime
membership at any time). Membership in the Penn State Alumni Association automatically confers
membership in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Alumni Society. The Ross and Carol
Nese College of Nursing Alumni Society Board provides support and guidance for alumni events,
awards, and programming, which includes mentoring, professional development, and CE credit
programs. More information is available at http://www.nursing.psu.edu/alumni/
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PROFESSIONAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT
NATIONAL STUDENT NURSES’ ASSOCIATION
Sometimes Nursing students are interested in becoming involved with professional associations,
which may enhance their career development.
At a national level, students can become involved with the National Student Nurses’ Association
(NSNA).
Some of the benefits with NSNA may include:
• Leadership Opportunities
• Nursing Journal Subscription Discounts
• Convention and Conference Discounts
• Financial Services
• Scholarship Program
• Malpractice/Liability Insurance
• Publication Resources
At Penn State, students are encouraged to become involved with SNAPS.
STUDENT NURSES’ ASSOCIATION OF PENN STATE (SNAPS)
Student Nurses’ Association of Penn State (SNAPS) is an organization open to all nursing students
at Penn State that provides opportunities to broaden the student’s awareness of professional and
service experiences in the community. SNAPS organizes and encourages student participation in
interdisciplinary activities, represents Penn State at the national and state student nursing
conventions and provides a great chance to get involved socially with others in your major.
First-year Nursing students should plan to attend the College Dean’s Meeting the Sunday prior to the
start of classes. All Nursing students are contacted during the first week of classes with information
on the date for the first SNAPS meeting and the SNAPS officers’ contact information. SNAPS
meetings are held at UP and HMC campuses throughout the academic year. Additional information
can be found on the SNAPS website at www.snap.psu.edu
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing faculty strongly encourage participation in SNAPS
events, such as the National Student Nursing Association (NSNA) Convention or the Student
Nurses’ Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP) Convention. The following rules apply:
• The student will notify clinical instructor and course coordinator of their intent to attend an event
as soon as possible, but not less than 4 weeks ahead of scheduled event.
• Faculty discretion is based upon course grade, previous attendance in clinical, remediation in any
course, and/or general academic standing.
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• Students must attend educational sessions and at least one business meeting or resolutions
hearing. Delegates are required to attend all business meetings.
• Attendance at an approved SNAPS event excuses student from one clinical day per nursing
course. Capstone clinical days are not excused by this policy.
• Students may be required to write a brief report on the activity or provide a brief 10-minute
verbal report in post-conference about their experience.
Approved: March 2001
Revised: February, 2006; Spring 2018; Spring 2019
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SIGMA THETA TAU
INTERNATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY OF NURSING
BETA SIGMA CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP
Philosophy of Membership Eligibility
Sigma membership is by invitation to baccalaureate and graduate nursing students who demonstrate
excellence in scholarship and to nurse leaders exhibiting exceptional achievements in nursing. Sigma
Theta Tau encompasses more than 150 chapters located at colleges and universities throughout the
world. Penn State is home to the Beta Sigma chapter.
Purpose of Sigma
• Recognize superior achievement and scholarship
• Recognize the development of leadership qualities
• Foster high professional standards
• Encourage creative work
• Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession
Membership Invitation
Candidates for membership from all baccalaureate programs are reviewed annually in late August.
Invitations are extended to all BSN students who meet the Sigma’s membership criteria, which
include portion of the nursing curriculum completed, cumulative GPA and rank in class. An
induction ceremony is held in November of that year for all new members.
SIGMA THETA TAU ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
The Sigma Award was created by donations from the Beta Sigma Chapter to recognize
undergraduate Nursing students upon graduation. One award will be presented to a newly inducted
Undergraduate member during the Spring Commencement Ceremony. The amount of the award is
determined by the Beta Sigma Chapter of Sigma. The awards shall be conferred annually from
available resources.
Consideration for this award is given to all undergraduate nursing students who have been or will be
inducted into Sigma Theta Tau by the end of their final year. Recipients of this award are selected by
the Beta Sigma Chapter of the Sigma Scholarship Committee. Eligibility is based on the student’s
academic record as determined by fall semester cumulative GPA.
Revised Spring 2020
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SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS
Penn State awards a number of scholarships to undergraduate students each year. In addition, grants,
loans, and the College Work-Study program are available for those who qualify. For more
information on undergraduate financial aid, contact the Office of Student Aid, 314 Shields Building,
University Park, PA 16802-6508, phone: (814) 865-6301, or visit the Web site at:
http://studentaid.psu.edu/
Listed below are some possible sources of scholarships and financial assistance:
ROTC Scholarships. All branches of the military are located in Wagner Building at the University
Park campus and can be contacted for additional information. Air Force: (814) 865-5453; Army:
(814) 863-0368; Marines: (814) 865-6289; and Navy: (814) 865-6289.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing often has information on scholarship programs
for nursing students. They are located at One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC
20036, phone: (202) 463-6930, or visit the World Wide Web home page at:
http://www.aacn.nche.edu/students/financial-aid
The National League for Nursing has information on scholarship resources: 61 Broadway, 33
rd
Floor, New York, NY 10006, phone: (800) 669-1656 or (212) 812-0300, or visit the World Wide
Web home page at: http://www.nlnfoundation.org/Scholarship_Resources.cfm
http://www.nln.org/professional-development-programs/grants-and-scholarships
The Hospital Council of Western Pennsylvania has scholarship information. They are located at
500 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086-7513, phone: (800) 704-8434, or visit the World
Wide Web home page at: http://hcwp.org/
The Nightingale Awards of Pennsylvania has scholarship information. They are located at 2400
Ardmore Blvd, Ste 302, Pittsburgh, PA 15221. Phone: (412) 871-3353. Web page at:
http://www.nightingaleawards.org/
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has scholarship information. Visit the web
Scholarships and Financial Aid page at: http://www.nursing.psu.edu/undergraduate/financial-aid
Many hospitals and other healthcare institutions offer their own scholarship programs. For example,
a hospital offers a tuition stipend with the understanding that a student will commit two or three
years of continuous employment following graduation. It is the student’s responsibility to seek out
outside scholarship opportunities.
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GRADUATING STUDENTS: NCLEX EXAMINATION AND RN
LICENSURE
INFORMATION FOR GRADUATING STUDENTS
Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosure by State
Many US states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you
plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the
Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map.
All students must complete the following steps for RN Licensure (instructions below):
Complete the Post-Graduation Contact Survey
Register for National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
Submit Application for Licensure to ONE State
If applicable: Submit Application for Temporary Practice Permit (TPP)
NOTE: For students at the Commonwealth Campuses, the following process will be
coordinated by the Campus Coordinator for Nursing Program/s.
1. Complete the Post-Graduation Contact Survey
ALL STUDENTS must complete the Post-Graduation Contact Survey, which is sent via email
• Complete the survey with your “post-graduation” contact information
• Enter your name as it appears on the official identification you will use for admittance to
NCLEX examination (indicating first, middle, last and any suffixes such as Jr, II, etc.)
• If you have a name that may have special spacing, please be careful to enter it as such
e.g. McDonald or Mc_Donald; DeBrenna or Debrenna; two first names such as Mary Jo
(first), Elaine (middle) McDonald (last)
2. Register for the NCLEX Examination
• You may register to take the NCLEX examination anywhere in the United States – does not
have to be in the state in which you apply for licensure
• Print a copy of the NCLEX Candidate Bulletin at www.pearsonvue.com/nclex – Click on
Candidate Bulletin and Information under “Downloads”
• Follow the directions provided to register for the NCLEX examination (Pearson VUE)
• Your Education Program Code is: US25506800
• If your State Board of Nursing (SBN) is still requiring the old 5-digit code, use 25-568
3. Submit Application for Licensure
General Information (See Licensure Process below for more information)
REMEMBER – This is a separate process from NCLEX examination registration
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• Submit your application materials no earlier than 90 days prior to the date you complete your
nursing education program
• Submit your application materials for licensure to one state only. Visit that state’s SBN
website for detailed information and instructions https://www.ncsbn.org/contactbon.htm
• Follow the directions from the specific SBN to complete the registration process
• Mandatory Child Abuse Continuing Education
o Effective January 1, 2015 – ALL persons applying for licensure must complete 3
hours of Department of Human Services (DHS)-approved training in child abuse
o You may complete the education prior to program completion
o Use this link to find an approved course:
https://www.reportabusepa.pitt.edu/webapps/portal/execute/tabs/tabAction?tab_tab_g
roup_id=_49_1
o The approved provider of the course electronically sends verification of completion to
the SBN
o A license will not be issued until the course is completed
4. Submit Application for Temporary Practice Permit (TPP) (if applicable)
• IF you plan to work as a graduate nurse before taking the NCLEX, you must have a TPP
• Refer to the SBN where you apply for licensure for specific instructions
• Complete the TPP application as soon as you know that you have a job as a graduate nurse
• Allow a minimum of 4-6 weeks from the date of program completion to the issuance of the
TPP
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LICENSURE PROCESS
Licensure – Pennsylvania
• Obtain information and application at
https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Nursing/Pages/default.as
px
• Choose the link “Nursing Licensure Guide & Timeline.” Then select “Initial Registered
Nurse License by Examination”. Take time to read all the information presented at this site.
• You must apply online – there is no hard copy mail option. (Exception—A U.S. Social
Security Number (SSN) is required for an online application submission. Applicants without
a SSN should upload a Waiver Form.)
• Licensure and Temporary Practice Permit are two SEPARATE applications and two
SEPARATE fees
• Allow 14 business days for processing applicant materials once application packet is
complete
• DO NOT request Nursing Education Verification (NEV) form from the Nese CON – this is
an automatic process and will be submitted electronically by the Nese CON immediately
upon degree conferral
Licensure - States Other Than Pennsylvania
• Locate your state board of nursing’s website https://www.ncsbn.org/contactbon.htm
• Read and follow instructions carefully
• Anything other than official transcripts needed from the Nese CON should be included in an
email to Lynda Bennett ([email protected]) as soon as possible with very specific instructions.
o Education Verification Letters
o Forms requiring the Dean’s signature
o Forms requiring a University seal
o Verification of clinical hours
o Mailing address(es)
o Your contact information (phone and email)
Note: If a transcript is needed, the student must order the Official Transcript from the
Registrar’s Office (https://registrar.psu.edu)
Confirmation
• When the Nese CON has been notified that degrees have been conferred*:
*Processes at Altoona and Harrisburg may vary. Contact the appropriate Nese CON
Nursing office for further information.
Helpful Tips and Notes
• Education Program Code – US25506800
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o If your SBN is still requiring the old 5-digit code, use 25-568
• There are NO refunds of NCLEX examination fees for ANY reason
• All correspondence from Pearson VUE will arrive ONLY by email
• Identification and YOUR NAME
o Use the exact name as it appears on your official identification you will use for
admittance to the NCLEX examination and for your Post-Graduation Contact
Information form, NCLEX examination registration and licensure application
• Social Security Numbers – Most SBNs will require your full Social Security number
• Transcripts must be ordered through the Office of the Registrar
o Make sure to specify HOLD for Degree if ordering before the deadline (last day of
classes)
o Provide address where it should be mailed – pay particular attention to the directions
in your application materials for specific mailing instructions
• When in doubt, or if you have questions, call the SBN or Pearson VUE directly. The Nese
CON staff cannot provide licensure or exam application information.
• Allow ample time for form completion, signatures, seals, etc.
REMEMBER – The NCLEX examination registration (with Pearson VUE) and state licensure
application (state where you want to be licensed and practice nursing) are two separate processes;
however, these two entities communicate with each other to coordinate the process.
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LICENSURE
The following statement is excerpted in its entirety from the Pennsylvania Professional Nursing
Law:
Section 6: Fees; Qualifications for Licensure—No application for licensure as a registered
nurse shall be considered unless accompanied by fee determined by the Board by regulation.
Every applicant, to be eligible for examination for licensure as a registered nurse, shall
furnish evidence satisfactory to the Board that he or she is of good moral character, has
completed work equal to a standard high school course as evaluated by the Board and has
satisfactorily completed an approved program of professional nursing.
The Board shall not issue a license or certificate to an applicant who has been convicted of a
felonious act prohibited by the act of April 14, 1972 (P.L. 233, No. 64), known as “The
Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act,” or convicted of a felony relating to a
controlled substance in a court of law of the United States or any other state, territory, or
country unless:
• At least ten (10) years have elapsed from the date of conviction;
• The applicant satisfactorily demonstrates to the Board that he/she has made significant progress
in personal rehabilitation since the conviction such that licensure of the applicant should not be
expected to create a substantial risk of harm to the health and safety of patients or the public or a
substantial risk or further criminal violations; and
• The applicant otherwise satisfies the qualifications contained in or authorized by this act.
As used in this subsection the term “convicted” shall include a judgment, an admission of guilt,
or a plea of nolo contendere. An applicant’s statement on the application declaring the absence of
a conviction shall be deemed satisfactory evidence of the absence of a conviction, unless the
Board has some evidence to the contrary.
The Professional Nursing Law Act of May 22, 1951 (P.L. 317, No. 69), Section 6 as amended 06
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RESOURCES
LINKS TO OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Academic Advising Portal:
http://advising.psu.edu/
Academic Advising
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/advising/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/division-undergraduate-studies-advising-center
Academic Calendar
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/registrar/calendar.php
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/academic-calendar
Admissions
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/admissions/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/admissions
Bookstore
A: https://psu.bncollege.com/shop/psu-altoona/home
H: https://psu.bncollege.com/shop/psu/home
Bursar
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/bursar/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/bursar
Career Services
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/career/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/career-services
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Website
http://www.nursing.psu.edu/
Counseling Services (CAPS)
A: https://altoona.psu.edu/offices-divisions/student-affairs/health-wellness/counseling-psychological-
services
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/counseling-services
Disability Services
A: https://altoona.psu.edu/offices-divisions/student-affairs/health-wellness/student-disability-resources
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/disability-services
Health Services
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/healthwellness/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/student-health-services
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Housing
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/housing/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/housing
Housing and Food Services
A: http://altoonacampusliving.psu.edu/
H: http://harrisburgcampusliving.psu.edu/
ID Cards
A: https://idcard.psu.edu
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/academics/registration-instructions
Information Technology Services
A: https://altoona.psu.edu/offices-divisions/information-technology
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/its
Learning Resources Center
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/lrc/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/learning-center
Nursing Student Mental Health Guide
A: http://www.cnaclasses.org/nursing-student-mental-health/.
H: http://www.cnaclasses.org/nursing-student-mental-health/.
Parking and Transportation
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/downtown/parking.php
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/news/parking-campus
Police Services
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/police/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/safety-police-services
Registrar
A: https://altoona.psu.edu/offices-divisions/academic-affairs/registrar
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/registrar
Residence Life
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/reslife/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/residence-life
Student Affairs
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/stuaffairs/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/student-affairs
Student Aid
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/stuaid/staff.php
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/financial-aid
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Scheduling Information
A: https://altoona.psu.edu/offices-divisions/academic-affairs/registrar/registration-timetables
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/division-undergraduate-studies/for-current-
students#Scheduling_Courses_and_Registration
Tuition
A: http://www.altoona.psu.edu/tuition/
H: https://harrisburg.psu.edu/tuition-and-financial-aid
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INDEX
CLINICAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION REMEDIATION FORMS
PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
NURS 230 Student Clinical Performance Evaluation
Student Name ________________________________ Course Number ___________ Semester _________
Clinical Site(s) __________________________________________________________________________
Mid-Course Evaluation: Passing____ Failing____ Needs Improvement______ Date: _______________
Final Evaluation: Pass____ Fail____ Date: _____________
Definition of Clinical Grades:
P = Pass
Passing: Clinical performance which consistently demonstrates safe and
adequate application of the clinical course objectives within a defined time
frame with minimal verbal or nonverbal cues or assistance in integrating
knowledge and skills.
F = Fail
Failing: Clinical performance which demonstrates unsafe or inadequate
application of the clinical objectives within a defined time frame; requires
frequent verbal or nonverbal cues or assistance to function on the clinical
area, demonstrates gaps in necessary knowledge or critical thinking and requires
frequent or almost constant assistance in integrating knowledge and skills.
*NI – Needs Improvement
only may be used at mid-course
evaluation
Needs Improvement: Clinical performance which is inconsistent in
application of clinical course objectives within a defined time frame; functions
safely and adequately only with moderate assistance, verbal or nonverbal
cues, integrating knowledge with skills in the clinical area.
*N.A. – Not applicable
The N/A at final evaluation should only be utilized if none of the students in the
course had the opportunity to meet the objective.
Not applicable to students in this course
DO NOT USE N.A. FOR EVALUATION OF ANY CORE COMPETENCY
Criteria for Passing Clinical:
Mid-Course
Passing requires pass (P) in all Core competencies and criteria. “Needs Improvement” (NI) on
any one criteria at mid-course evaluation denotes “Needs Improvement” (NI) for the core
competency and a “Needs Improvement” clinical grade at mid-course. “Fail” (F) on any one
criteria at mid-course evaluation denotes “Fail” (F) for the core competency and a failing clinical
grade at mid-course. The evaluator is expected to comment on ALL items rated: NI or F.
Comments must include a plan for improvement for each criteria evaluated with a Fail (F) or
Needs Improvement (NI).
A Remediation Plan will be written at mid-course if the student is failing and, at the discretion of
the clinical instructor, may be written for a student who needs improvement.
Final:
Pass in all elements. A “Fail” (F) on any one element at final evaluation denotes clinical failure
and course failure. The evaluator is expected to comment on all items rated F.
Remediation Plans: will be developed by course faculty for failing grade at mid-course or any time during the course at the
discretion of the clinical instructor. The plan will identify the clinical criteria that are of concern and will suggest resources
and activities designed to assist the student in achieving a passing evaluation for the final course grade.
Instructions for faculty: Passing (P) for any core competency indicates that all criteria are also passing (P). If the core
competency is graded F or NI, indicate with a check which criteria are F or NI. If even one criterion is F, the core
competency is also F. Unchecked criterions are passing (P).
118
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 1
P
F
NI
P
F
Patient Centered Care: Plan and provide competent, compassionate and
coordinated care based on sound judgment and clinical reasoning and
respect for patient’s preferences, values, and need.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
1a. Demonstrates accurate, thorough, and systematic clinical assessments
1b. Develops individualized, accurate and complete nursing care plans with
rationales and outcome criteria
1c. Provides patient-centered care compassionately and effectively
1d. Maintains client privacy, confidentiality, and dignity
1e. Identifies the need for the professional nurse to advocate for
clients/families.
1f. Prioritizes patient needs and care accurately.
Core competency 2
P
F
NI
P
F
Safety: Minimizes risk of harm to patients and providers through both
system effectiveness and individual performance.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
2a. Performs nursing skills safely, accurately, and without omission
2b. Implements written plans of care safely and effectively
2c. Complies with Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing and clinical site
policies for safety, security, infection control, and patient care
2d. Administers medications safely with an understanding of the purpose,
route, dose range, side effects, and precautions for each medication
2e. Implements strategies to reduce risk of harm to self and others
2f. Recognizes and acts to prevent unsafe, illegal, immoral or unethical
practices by self and others
2g. Monitors patient status and notify assigned nurse promptly of any changes
in condition or concerning findings
2h. Implements strategies related to National Patient Safety Goals that are
appropriate for assigned client(s).
2i. Organizes multiple responsibilities and provides safe client care in a
effective, efficient and timely manner
Core competency 3
P
F
NI
P
F
Evidence based Practice: Integrate best current evidence with clinical
expertise and patient/family preferences and values for delivery of optimal
healthcare.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
3a. Relates theoretical and evidence-based knowledge to practice
3b. Utilizes appropriate resources and references for accurate and complete
data collection
3c. Delivers evidence based care that respects patient and family preferences
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
119
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 4
P
F
NI
P
F
Teamwork & Collaboration: Function effectively within nursing
and inter-professional teams, fostering open communication, mutual
respect, and shared decision making to achieve quality patient care.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
4a. Develops and maintain constructive and cooperative working
relationships with faculty, staff, peers, and facility employees
4b. Listens carefully and communicate effectively with
patients/families, members of the healthcare team, faculty, and those
from diverse backgrounds, taking the time to understand and ask
appropriate questions without interrupting
4c. Assumes role of team member and functions competently within
own scope of practice providing high quality, safe patient care, as a
member of the healthcare team
4d. Identifies the perspectives, expertise, and limitations of all
healthcare team members including those of diverse background
4e. Reports abnormal findings or changes in patient condition to
appropriate members of the healthcare team in a timely, accurate,
and thorough manner
4f. Identifies the need for help, identifies appropriate resources and
initiates requests when appropriate to the situation
4g. Begins to incorporate effective communication techniques,
including negotiation and conflict resolution to produce positive
professional working relationships
4h. Identifies the unique nursing perspective to inter-professional teams
to optimize patient outcomes
Core competency 5
P
F
NI
P
F
Quality Improvement: Monitor the outcomes of care processes and
take steps to continuously improve the quality and safety care
delivery.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
5a. Accepts guidance, supervision, and constructive criticism
5b. Identifies strengths and weaknesses and uses feedback to formulate
goals for personal and professional growth
5c. Evaluates care based on client response, outcome, scientific
knowledge, and begins to make appropriate revisions, as necessary
5d. Shows a high level of dedication to quality
5e. Promotes achievement of safe, quality outcomes of care for all
clients and families
5f. Realizes that continuous quality improvement is an essential part of
the daily work of all members of the healthcare team.
5g. Realizes that nursing and students of other health professions are
part of systems of care and care processes that affect outcomes for
clients and families.
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
120
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 6
P
F
NI
P
F
Informatics: Manage data, information, knowledge and technology to
effectively communicate, mitigate error and support decision making.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
6a. Maintains accurate & timely medical records and other documentation in
accordance with clinical site & program policy utilizing appropriate
medical terminology and professional communication.
6b. Demonstrates fundamental skills in using patient care technologies,
information & communication systems, that support safe nursing practice.
6c. Recognizes the role of information technology in improving patient care
outcomes and creating a safe care environment.
6d. Upholds ethical standards related to data security, regulatory requirements,
confidentiality, and clients’ right to privacy.
6e. Utilizes and responds appropriately to technologies and alerts that support
clinical decision-making, error prevention, and care coordination.
6f. Utilizes and begin to evaluate patient data and information.
Core competency 7
P
F
NI
P
F
Professionalism and Professional Values: Applies the principles of
altruism, excellence, caring, ethics, respect, communication, civility, and
accountability.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
7a. Takes responsibility and accountability for learning, actions and quality of
work without blaming others or making excuses.
7b. Complies with Pennsylvania State University, Ross and Carol Nese College
of Nursing, program & course policies, procedures and requirements.
7c. Is honest and trustworthy and demonstrates the professional standards of
moral, ethical, and legal conduct.
7d. Demonstrates flexibility and tolerance for change, ambiguity, and
unpredictability.
7e. Performs effectively and maintains self-control during difficult or
unexpected situations and conditions.
7f. Maintains a culture of civility and kindness treating all individuals with
dignity and respect.
7g. Demonstrates professionalism, including attention to appearance,
demeanor, respect for self and others, and attention to professional
boundaries with patients and families, staff and faculty.
7h. Remains alert and attentive during clinical time.
7i. Performs duties in a reliable, responsible, and dependable manner.
7j. Provides evidence of preparation for clinical experiences
7k. Arrives at clinical experiences and completes work on time.
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
121
Mid-Semester Evaluation
Instructor Comments:
Student Comments:
Student’s Signature:
_________________________________________________Date____________________
Instructor’s Signature:
_________________________________________________Date_____________________
Final Evaluation
Instructor Comments:
Student Comments:
Student’s Signature: ____________________________________Date_____________________
Instructor’s Signature: __ ________________________________Date_____________________
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
122
REMEDIATION PLAN AND OUTCOME
Please type this document
Criteria
Description of unsatisfactory behavior
Please use back of form if necessary for additional detail
PLAN
The SPECIFIC skills, knowledge, and COMPETENCIES that must be demonstrated to meet
course objective(s) including time frame when appropriate:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Suggested resources and activities:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Failure to meet the expectations of the remediation plan and all clinical objectives will result in a
clinical failure for this course.
Instructor’s Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________
Student’s Signature:_____________________________ Date:____________________
Date of Follow-up Conference:______________________________________________
OUTCOME
Follow-up conference (Please check one of the following):
Has overcome deficiencies and now meets objective(s)
Has not overcome deficiencies and does not meet objective(s)
Comments:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Instructor’s Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________
Student’s Signature:_____________________________ Date:____________________
Approved: 2005; 11/2017
Revised: Fall 2015; 1/2018
123
PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
NURS 251 Student Clinical Performance Evaluation
Student Name ________________________________ Course Number ___________ Semester _________
Clinical Site(s) __________________________________________________________________________
Mid-Course Evaluation: Passing____ Failing____ Needs Improvement______ Date: _______________
Final Evaluation: Pass____ Fail____ Date: _____________
Definition of Clinical Grades:
P = Pass
Passing: Clinical performance which consistently demonstrates safe and
adequate application of the clinical course objectives within a defined time frame
with minimal verbal or nonverbal cues or assistance in integrating knowledge and
skills.
F = Fail
Failing: Clinical performance which demonstrates unsafe or inadequate
application of the clinical objectives within a defined time frame; requires
frequent verbal or nonverbal cues or assistance to function on the clinical area,
demonstrates gaps in necessary knowledge or critical thinking and requires
frequent or almost constant assistance in integrating knowledge and skills.
*NI – Needs Improvement
only may be used at mid-
course evaluation
Needs Improvement: Clinical performance which is inconsistent in application
of clinical course objectives within a defined time frame; functions safely and
adequately only with moderate assistance, verbal or nonverbal cues,
integrating knowledge with skills in the clinical area.
*N.A. – Not applicable
Not applicable to students in this course
DO NOT USE N.A. FOR EVALUATION OF ANY CORE COMPETENCY
Criteria for Passing Clinical:
Mid-Course
Passing requires pass (P) in all Core competencies and criteria. “Needs Improvement”
(NI) on any one criteria at mid-course evaluation denotes “Needs Improvement” (NI) for
the core competency and a “Needs Improvement” clinical grade at mid-course. “Fail” (F)
on any one criteria at mid-course evaluation denotes “Fail” (F) for the core competency
and a failing clinical grade at mid-course. The evaluator is expected to comment on ALL
items rated: NI or F. Comments must include a plan for improvement for each criteria
evaluated with a Fail (F) or Needs Improvement (NI).
A Remediation Plan will be written at mid-course if the student is failing and, at the
discretion of the clinical instructor, may be written for a student who needs improvement.
Final:
Pass in all elements. A “Fail” (F) on any one element at final evaluation denotes clinical
failure and course failure. The evaluator is expected to comment on all items rated F.
Remediation Plans: will be developed by course faculty for failing grade at mid-course or any time during the
course at the discretion of the clinical instructor. The plan will identify the clinical criteria that are of concern
and will suggest resources and activities designed to assist the student in achieving a passing evaluation for the
final course grade.
Instructions for faculty: Passing (P) for any core competency indicates that all criteria are also passing (P). If
the core competency is graded F or NI, indicate with a check which criteria are F or NI. If even one criterion is
F, the core competency is also F. Unchecked criterions are passing (P). “Patients” or “Clients” can be used in
these clinical objectives to refer to students’ peers, faculty, and/or standardized patients when clinical evaluation
utilized in NURS 251
124
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 1
P
F
NI
P
F
Patient Centered Care: Plan and provide competent, compassionate
and coordinated care based on sound judgment and clinical
reasoning and respect for patient’s preferences, values, and need.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
1a. Demonstrates accurate, thorough, and systematic clinical
assessments
1b. Develops individualized, accurate and complete nursing care plans
with rationales and outcome criteria
x
x
1c. Provides patient-centered care compassionately and effectively
1d. Maintains client privacy, confidentiality, and dignity
1e. Identifies the need for the professional nurse to advocate for
clients/families.
1f. Prioritizes patient needs and care accurately.
Core competency 2
P
F
NI
P
F
Safety: Minimizes risk of harm to patients and providers through
both system effectiveness and individual performance.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
2a. Performs nursing skills safely, accurately, and without omission
2b. Implements written plans of care safely and effectively
x
x
2c. Complies with Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing and clinical
site policies for safety, security, infection control, and patient care
2d. Administers medications safely with an understanding of the
purpose, route, dose range, side effects, and precautions for each
medication
x
x
2e. Implements strategies to reduce risk of harm to self and others
2f. Recognizes and acts to prevent unsafe, illegal, immoral or unethical
practices by self and others
2g. Monitors patient status and notify assigned nurse promptly of any
changes in condition or concerning findings
2h. Implements strategies related to National Patient Safety Goals that
are appropriate for assigned client(s).
2i. Organizes multiple responsibilities and provides safe client care in a
effective, efficient and timely manner
Core competency 3
P
F
NI
P
F
Evidence based Practice: Integrate best current evidence with
clinical expertise and patient/family preferences and values for
delivery of optimal healthcare.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
3a. Relates theoretical and evidence-based knowledge to practice
3b. Utilizes appropriate resources and references for accurate and
complete data collection
3c. Delivers evidence based care that respects patient and family
preferences
Approved: 2005
Revised: 11/2015
Revised: 02/2016
125
Core competency 4
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Teamwork & Collaboration: Function effectively within nursing
and inter-professional teams, fostering open communication, mutual
respect, and shared decision making to achieve quality patient care.
P
F
NI
P
F
Criteria
Develops and maintain constructive and cooperative working
relationships with faculty, staff, peers, and facility employees
F
NI
NA
F
NA
4a. Listens carefully and communicate effectively with
patients/families, members of the healthcare team, faculty, and those
from diverse backgrounds, taking the time to understand and ask
appropriate questions without interrupting
4b. Assumes role of team member and functions competently within
own scope of practice providing high quality, safe patient care, as a
member of the healthcare team
4c. Identifies the perspectives, expertise, and limitations of all
healthcare team members including those of diverse background
x
x
4d. Reports abnormal findings or changes in patient condition to
appropriate members of the healthcare team in a timely, accurate,
and thorough manner
x
x
4e. Identifies the need for help, identifies appropriate resources and
initiates requests when appropriate to the situation
x
x
4f. Begins to incorporate effective communication techniques,
including negotiation and conflict resolution to produce positive
professional working relationships
4g. Identifies the unique nursing perspective to inter-professional teams
to optimize patient outcomes
Core competency 5
Quality Improvement: Monitor the outcomes of care processes and
take steps to continuously improve the quality and safety care
delivery.
P
F
NI
P
F
Criteria
Accepts guidance, supervision, and constructive criticism
F
NI
NA
F
NA
5a. Identifies strengths and weaknesses and uses feedback to formulate
goals for personal and professional growth
5b. Evaluates care based on client response, outcome, scientific
knowledge, and begins to make appropriate revisions, as necessary
5c. Shows a high level of dedication to quality
x
x
5d. Promotes achievement of safe, quality outcomes of care for all
clients and families
5e. Realizes that continuous quality improvement is an essential part of
the daily work of all members of the healthcare team.
5f. Realizes that nursing and students of other health professions are
part of systems of care and care processes that affect outcomes for
clients and families.
x
x
Approved: 2005
Revised: 11/2015
Revised: 02/2016
126
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 6
P
F
NI
P
F
Informatics: Manage data, information, knowledge and technology to
effectively communicate, mitigate error and support decision making.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
6a. Maintains accurate & timely medical records and other documentation in
accordance with clinical site & program policy utilizing appropriate
medical terminology and professional communication.
6b. Demonstrates fundamental skills in using patient care technologies,
information & communication systems, that support safe nursing practice.
6c. Recognizes the role of information technology in improving patient care
outcomes and creating a safe care environment.
6d. Upholds ethical standards related to data security, regulatory requirements,
confidentiality, and clients’ right to privacy.
6e. Utilizes and responds appropriately to technologies and alerts that support
clinical decision-making, error prevention, and care coordination.
x
x
6f. Utilizes and begin to evaluate patient data and information.
Core competency 7
P
F
NI
P
F
Professionalism and Professional Values: Applies the principles of
altruism, excellence, caring, ethics, respect, communication, civility, and
accountability.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
7a. Takes responsibility and accountability for learning, actions and quality of
work without blaming others or making excuses.
7b. Complies with Pennsylvania State University, Ross and Carol Nese College
of Nursing, program & course policies, procedures and requirements.
7c. Is honest and trustworthy and demonstrates the professional standards of
moral, ethical, and legal conduct.
7d. Demonstrates flexibility and tolerance for change, ambiguity, and
unpredictability.
7e. Performs effectively and maintains self-control during difficult or
unexpected situations and conditions.
7f. Maintains a culture of civility and kindness treating all individuals with
dignity and respect.
7g. Demonstrates professionalism, including attention to appearance,
demeanor, respect for self and others, and attention to professional
boundaries with patients and families, staff and faculty.
7h. Remains alert and attentive during clinical time.
7i. Performs duties in a reliable, responsible, and dependable manner.
7j. Provides evidence of preparation for clinical experiences
7k. Arrives at clinical experiences and completes work on time.
Approved: 2005
Revised: 11/2015
Revised: 02/2016
127
Mid-Semester Evaluation
Instructor Comments:
Student Comments:
Student’s Signature:
___________________________________________________Date____________________
Instructor’s Signature:
_________________________________________________Date_____________________
Final Evaluation
Instructor Comments:
Student Comments:
Student’s Signature: _________________________________ Date_____________________
Instructor’s Signature: _______________________________ Date_____________________
Approved: 2005
Revised: 11/2015
Revised: 02/2016
128
REMEDIATION PLAN AND OUTCOME
Please type this document
Criteria
Description of unsatisfactory behavior
Please use back of form if necessary for additional detail
PLAN
The SPECIFIC skills, knowledge, and COMPETENCIES that must be demonstrated to meet
course objective(s) including time frame when appropriate:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Suggested resources and activities:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Failure to meet the expectations of the remediation plan and all clinical objectives will result in a
clinical failure for this course.
Instructor’s Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________
Student’s Signature:_____________________________ Date:____________________
Date of Follow-up Conference:______________________________________________
OUTCOME
Follow-up conference (Please check one of the following):
Has overcome deficiencies and now meets objective(s)
Has not overcome deficiencies and does not meet objective(s)
Comments:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Instructor’s Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________
Student’s Signature:_____________________________ Date:____________________
Approved: 2005; 11/2017
Revised: Fall 2015; 1/2018
129
PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
300 LEVEL Student Clinical Performance Evaluation
Student Name ________________________________ Course Number ___________ Semester _________
Clinical Site(s) __________________________________________________________________________
Mid-Course Evaluation: Passing____ Failing____ Needs Improvement______ Date: _______________
Final Evaluation: Pass____ Fail____ Date: _____________
Definition of Clinical Grades:
P = Pass
Passing: Clinical performance which consistently demonstrates safe and
adequate application of the clinical course objectives within a defined time
frame with minimal verbal or nonverbal cues or assistance in integrating
knowledge and skills.
F = Fail
Failing: Clinical performance which demonstrates unsafe or inadequate
application of the clinical objectives within a defined time frame; requires
frequent verbal or nonverbal cues or assistance to function on the clinical
area, demonstrates gaps in necessary knowledge or critical thinking and requires
frequent or almost constant assistance in integrating knowledge and skills.
*NI – Needs Improvement
only may be used at mid-
course evaluation
Needs Improvement: Clinical performance which is inconsistent in application
of clinical course objectives within a defined time frame; functions safely and
adequately only with moderate assistance, verbal or nonverbal cues,
integrating knowledge with skills in the clinical area.
*N.A. – Not applicable
The N/A at final evaluation should only be utilized if none of the students in the
course had the opportunity to meet the objective.
Not applicable to students in this course
DO NOT USE N.A. FOR EVALUATION OF ANY CORE COMPETENCY
Criteria for Passing Clinical:
Mid-Course
Passing requires pass (P) in all Core competencies and criteria. “Needs Improvement” (NI) on
any one criteria at mid-course evaluation denotes “Needs Improvement” (NI) for the core
competency and a “Needs Improvement” clinical grade at mid-course. “Fail” (F) on any one
criteria at mid-course evaluation denotes “Fail” (F) for the core competency and a failing
clinical grade at mid-course. The evaluator is expected to comment on ALL items rated: NI or
F. Comments must include a plan for improvement for each criteria evaluated with a Fail (F) or
Needs Improvement (NI) .
A Remediation Plan will be written at mid-course if the student is failing and, at the discretion
of the clinical instructor, may be written for a student who needs improvement.
Final:
Pass in all elements. A “Fail” (F) on any one element at final evaluation denotes clinical failure
and course failure. The evaluator is expected to comment on all items rated F.
Remediation Plans: will be developed by course faculty for failing grade at mid-course or any time during the
course at the discretion of the clinical instructor. The plan will identify the clinical criteria that are of concern
and will suggest resources and activities designed to assist the student in achieving a passing evaluation for the
final course grade.
Instructions for faculty: Passing (P) for any core competency indicates that all criteria are also passing (P). If
the core competency is graded F or NI, indicate with a check which criteria are F or NI. If even one criterion is
F, the core competency is also F. Unchecked criterions are passing (P).
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
130
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 1
P
F
NI
P
F
Patient Centered Care: Plan and provide competent, compassionate and
coordinated care based on sound judgment and clinical reasoning and
respect for patient’s preferences, values, and need.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
1a. Demonstrates accurate, thorough, and systematic clinical assessments
1b. Develops individualized, accurate and complete nursing care plans with
rationales and outcome criteria
1c. Provides patient-centered care compassionately and effectively
1d. Maintains client privacy, confidentiality, and dignity
1e. Identifies the need for the professional nurse to advocate for
clients/families.
1f. Prioritizes patient needs and care accurately.
1g. Identifies educational needs and provides education to enhance client well-
being
Core competency 2
P
F
NI
P
F
Safety: Minimizes risk of harm to patients and providers through both
system effectiveness and individual performance.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
2a. Performs nursing skills safely, accurately, and without omission
2b. Implements comprehensive, individualized written plans of care safely and
effectively and revises as needed
2c. Complies with Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing and clinical site
policies for safety, security, infection control, and patient care
2d. Administers medications safely with an understanding of the purpose,
route, dose range, side effects, and precautions for each medication
2e. Identifies and implements strategies to reduce risk of harm to self and
others
2f. Recognizes and acts to prevent unsafe, illegal, immoral or unethical
practices by self and others
2g. Monitors patient status and notify assigned nurse promptly of any changes
in condition or concerning findings
2h. Identifies and implements strategies related to National Patient Safety
Goals that are appropriate for assigned client(s).
2i. Organizes multiple responsibilities and provides safe client care in a
effective, efficient and timely manner
Core competency 3
P
F
NI
P
F
Evidence based Practice: Integrate best current evidence with clinical
expertise and patient/family preferences and values for delivery of optimal
healthcare.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
3a. Applies theoretical and evidence-based knowledge to practice
3b. Utilizes appropriate resources and references for accurate and complete
data collection and analysis
3c. Delivers evidence based care that respects patient and family preferences
3d. Identifies and implements evidence-based practice to enhance patient
outcomes
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
131
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 4
P
F
NI
P
F
Teamwork & Collaboration: Function effectively within nursing
and inter-professional teams, fostering open communication, mutual
respect, and shared decision making to achieve quality patient care.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
4a. Develops and maintain constructive and cooperative working
relationships with faculty, staff, peers, and facility employees
4b. Listens carefully and communicates effectively with
patients/families, members of the healthcare team, faculty, and those
from diverse backgrounds, taking the time to understand and ask
appropriate questions without interrupting
4c. Assumes role of team member and functions competently within
own scope of practice providing high quality, safe patient care, as a
member of the healthcare team
4d. Incorporates the perspectives, expertise, and limitations of all
healthcare team members including those of diverse background
4e. Identifies and reports abnormal findings or changes in patient
condition to appropriate members of the healthcare team in a timely,
accurate, and thorough manner
4f. Identifies the need for help, identifies appropriate resources and
initiates requests when appropriate to the situation
4g. Incorporates effective communication techniques, including
negotiation and conflict resolution to produce positive professional
working relationships
4h. Begins to contribute the unique nursing perspective to inter-
professional teams to optimize patient outcomes
Core competency 5
P
F
NI
P
F
Quality Improvement: Monitor the outcomes of care processes and
take steps to continuously improve the quality and safety care
delivery.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
5a. Accepts guidance, supervision, and constructive criticism
5b. Identifies strengths and weaknesses and uses feedback to formulate
goals for personal and professional growth
5c. Evaluates care based on client response, outcome, scientific
knowledge, makes appropriate revisions, as necessary
5d. Contributes to a high level to quality
5e. Contributes to achievement of safe, quality outcomes of care for all
clients and families
5f. Contributes to continuous quality improvement as an essential part
of the daily work of all members of the healthcare team.
5g. Demonstrates how the role of nursing and students of other health
professions in systems of care and care processes that affect
outcomes for clients and families
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
132
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 6
P
F
NI
P
F
Informatics: Manage data, information, knowledge and technology
to effectively communicate, mitigate error and support decision
making.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
6a. Maintains accurate & timely medical records and other
documentation in accordance with clinical site & program policy
utilizing appropriate medical terminology and professional
communication.
6b. Demonstrates fundamental skills in using patient care technologies,
information & communication systems, and that support safe
nursing practice.
6c. Recognizes the role of information technology in improving patient
care outcomes and creating a safe care environment.
6d. Upholds ethical standards related to data security, regulatory
requirements, confidentiality, and clients’ right to privacy.
6e. Utilizes and respond appropriately to technologies and alerts that
support clinical decision-making, error prevention, and care
coordination.
6f. Utilizes and begin to evaluate patient data and information.
Core competency 7
P
F
NI
P
F
Professionalism and Professional Values: Applies the principles of
altruism, excellence, caring, ethics, respect, communication, civility,
and accountability.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
7a. Takes responsibility and accountability for learning, actions and
quality of work without blaming others or making excuses.
7b. Complies with Pennsylvania State University, Ross and Carol Nese
College of Nursing, program & course policies, procedures and
requirements.
7c. Is honest and trustworthy and demonstrates the professional
standards of moral, ethical, and legal conduct.
7d. Demonstrates flexibility and tolerance for change, ambiguity, and
unpredictability.
7e. Performs effectively and maintains self-control during difficult or
unexpected situations and conditions.
7f. Maintains a culture of civility and kindness treating all individuals
with dignity and respect.
7g. Demonstrates professionalism, including attention to appearance,
demeanor, respect for self and others, and attention to professional
boundaries with patients and families, staff and faculty.
7h. Remains alert and attentive during clinical time.
7i. Performs duties in a reliable, responsible, and dependable manner.
7j. Provides evidence of preparation for clinical experiences
7k. Arrives at clinical experiences and completes work on time.
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
133
Mid-Semester Evaluation
Instructor Comments:
Student Comments:
Student’s Signature:
___________________________________________________Date____________________
Instructor’s Signature:
_________________________________________________Date_____________________
Final Evaluation
Instructor Comments:
Student Comments:
Student’s Signature: _________________________________Date_____________________
Instructor’s Signature: _______________________________ Date_____________________
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
134
REMEDIATION PLAN AND OUTCOME
Please type this document
Criteria
Description of unsatisfactory behavior
Please use back of form if necessary for additional detail
PLAN
The SPECIFIC skills, knowledge, and COMPETENCIES that must be demonstrated to meet
course objective(s) including time frame when appropriate:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Suggested resources and activities:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Failure to meet the expectations of the remediation plan and all clinical objectives will result in a
clinical failure for this course.
Instructor’s Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________
Student’s Signature:_____________________________ Date:____________________
Date of Follow-up Conference:______________________________________________
OUTCOME
Follow-up conference (Please check one of the following):
Has overcome deficiencies and now meets objective(s)
Has not overcome deficiencies and does not meet objective(s)
Comments:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Instructor’s Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________
Student’s Signature:_____________________________ Date:____________________
Approved: 2005; 11/2017
Revised: Fall 2015; 1/2018
135
PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
400 LEVEL Student Clinical Performance Evaluation
Student Name ________________________________ Course Number ___________ Semester _________
Clinical Site(s) __________________________________________________________________________
Mid-Course Evaluation: Passing____ Failing____ Needs Improvement______ Date: _______________
Final Evaluation: Pass____ Fail____ Date: _____________
Definition of Clinical Grades:
P = Pass
Passing: Clinical performance which consistently demonstrates safe and
adequate application of the clinical course objectives within a defined time
frame with minimal verbal or nonverbal cues or assistance in integrating
knowledge and skills.
F = Fail
Failing: Clinical performance which demonstrates unsafe or inadequate
application of the clinical objectives within a defined time frame; requires
frequent verbal or nonverbal cues or assistance to function on the clinical
area, demonstrates gaps in necessary knowledge or critical thinking and requires
frequent or almost constant assistance in integrating knowledge and skills.
*NI – Needs Improvement
only may be used at mid-
course evaluation
Needs Improvement: Clinical performance which is inconsistent in application
of clinical course objectives within a defined time frame; functions safely and
adequately only with moderate assistance, verbal or nonverbal cues,
integrating knowledge with skills in the clinical area.
*N.A. – Not applicable
The N/A at final evaluation should only be utilized if none of the students in the
course had the opportunity to meet the objective.
Not applicable to students in this course
DO NOT USE N.A. FOR EVALUATION OF ANY CORE COMPETENCY
Criteria for Passing Clinical:
Mid-Course
Passing requires pass (P) in all Core competencies and criteria. “Needs Improvement” (NI) on
any one criteria at mid-course evaluation denotes “Needs Improvement” (NI) for the core
competency and a “Needs Improvement” clinical grade at mid-course. “Fail” (F) on any one
criteria at mid-course evaluation denotes “Fail” (F) for the core competency and a failing clinical
grade at mid-course. The evaluator is expected to comment on ALL items rated: NI or F.
Comments must include a plan for improvement for each criteria evaluated with a Fail (F) or
Needs Improvement (NI) .
A Remediation Plan will be written at mid-course if the student is failing and, at the discretion of
the clinical instructor, may be written for a student who needs improvement.
Final:
Pass in all elements. A “Fail” (F) on any one element at final evaluation denotes clinical failure
and course failure. The evaluator is expected to comment on all items rated F.
Remediation Plans: will be developed by course faculty for failing grade at mid-course or any time during the
course at the discretion of the clinical instructor. The plan will identify the clinical criteria that are of concern
and will suggest resources and activities designed to assist the student in achieving a passing evaluation for the
final course grade.
Instructions for faculty: Passing (P) for any core competency indicates that all criteria are also passing (P). If
the core competency is graded F or NI, indicate with a check which criteria are F or NI. If even one criterion is
F, the core competency is also F. Unchecked criterions are passing (P).
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
136
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 1
P
F
NI
P
F
Patient Centered Care: Plan and provide competent, compassionate and
coordinated care based on sound judgment and clinical reasoning and
respect for patient’s preferences, values, and need.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
1a. Demonstrates accurate, thorough, and systematic clinical assessments
1b. Develops individualized, accurate and complete nursing care plans with
rationales and outcome criteria
1c. Provides patient-centered care compassionately and effectively
1d. Maintains client privacy, confidentiality, and dignity
1e. Identifies the need for the professional nurse to advocate for
clients/families.
1f. Prioritizes patient needs and care accurately.
1g. Identifies educational needs and provides education to enhance client well-
being
1h. Develops and implements appropriate discharge plans for the client
Core competency 2
P
F
NI
P
F
Safety: Minimizes risk of harm to patients and providers through both
system effectiveness and individual performance.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
2a. Performs nursing skills safely, accurately, and without omission
2b. Implements comprehensive, individualized written plans of care safely and
effectively and revises as needed
2c. Complies with Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing and clinical site
policies for safety, security, infection control, and patient care
2d. Administers medications safely with an understanding of the purpose,
route, dose range, side effects, and precautions for each medication
2e. Identifies, implements and evaluates strategies to reduce risk of harm to
self and others
2f. Recognizes and acts to prevent unsafe, illegal, immoral or unethical
practices by self and others
2g. Monitors patient status and notify assigned nurse promptly of any changes
in condition or concerning findings
2h. Identifies, implements and evaluates strategies related to National Patient
Safety Goals that are appropriate for assigned client(s).
2i. Organizes multiple responsibilities and provides safe client care in a
effective, efficient and timely manner
Core competency 3
P
F
NI
P
F
Evidence based Practice: Integrate best current evidence with clinical
expertise and patient/family preferences and values for delivery of optimal
healthcare.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
3a. Applies theoretical and evidence-based knowledge to practice
3b. Utilizes appropriate resources and references for accurate and complete
data collection, analysis and synthesis
3c. Delivers evidence based care that respects patient and family preferences
3d. Identifies, implements, evaluation evidence-based practice to enhance
patient outcomes
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
137
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 4
P
F
NI
P
F
Teamwork & Collaboration: Function effectively within nursing
and inter-professional teams, fostering open communication, mutual
respect, and shared decision making to achieve quality patient care.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
4a. Develops and maintain constructive and cooperative working
relationships with faculty, staff, peers, and facility employees
4b. Listens carefully and communicates effectively with
patients/families, members of the healthcare team, faculty, and those
from diverse backgrounds, taking the time to understand and ask
appropriate questions without interrupting
4c. Assumes role of team member or leader as appropriate and functions
competently within own scope of practice providing high quality,
safe patient care, as a member of the healthcare team
4d. Incorporates the perspectives, expertise, and limitations of all
healthcare team members including those of diverse background
4e. Identifies and reports abnormal findings or changes in patient
condition to appropriate members of the healthcare team in a timely,
accurate, and thorough manner
4f. Identifies the need for help, identifies appropriate resources and
initiates requests when appropriate to the situation
4g. Demonstrates effective communication techniques, including
negotiation and conflict resolution to produce positive professional
working relationships
4h. Contributes the unique nursing perspective to inter-professional
teams to optimize patient outcomes
4i. Delegates and oversees care appropriately recognizing the expertise
and limitations of team members
Core competency 5
P
F
NI
P
F
Quality Improvement: Monitor the outcomes of care processes and
take steps to continuously improve the quality and safety care
delivery.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
5a. Accepts guidance, supervision, and constructive criticism
5b. Identifies strengths and weaknesses and uses feedback to formulate a
plan for personal and professional growth utilizing appropriate
resources
5c. Evaluates care based on client response, outcome, scientific
knowledge, makes appropriate revisions, as necessary
5d. Contributes to a high level of quality
5e. Proposes methods to enhance achievement of safe, quality outcomes
of care for all clients and families
5f. Contributes to continuous quality improvement as an essential part
of the daily work of all members of the healthcare team.
5g. Analyze the role of nursing and students of other health professions
in systems of care and care processes that affect outcomes for clients
and families.
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
138
MID-COURSE
FINAL
Core competency 6
P
F
NI
P
F
Informatics: Manage data, information, knowledge and technology
to effectively communicate, mitigate error and support decision
making.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
6a. Maintains accurate & timely medical records and other
documentation in accordance with clinical site & program policy
utilizing appropriate medical terminology and professional
communication.
6b. Demonstrates fundamental skills in using patient care technologies,
information & communication systems, and that support safe
nursing practice.
6c. Recognizes the role of information technology in improving patient
care outcomes and creating a safe care environment.
6d. Upholds ethical standards related to data security, regulatory
requirements, confidentiality, and clients’ right to privacy.
6e. Utilizes and respond appropriately to technologies and alerts that
support clinical decision-making, error prevention, and care
coordination.
6f. Utilizes and begin to evaluate patient data and information.
Core competency 7
P
F
NI
P
F
Professionalism and Professional Values: Applies the principles of
altruism, excellence, caring, ethics, respect, communication, civility,
and accountability.
Criteria
F
NI
NA
F
NA
7a. Takes responsibility and accountability for learning, actions and
quality of work without blaming others or making excuses.
7b. Complies with Pennsylvania State University, Ross and Carol Nese
College of Nursing, program & course policies, procedures and
requirements.
7c. Is honest and trustworthy and demonstrates the professional
standards of moral, ethical, and legal conduct.
7d. Demonstrates flexibility and tolerance for change, ambiguity, and
unpredictability.
7e. Performs effectively and maintains self-control during difficult or
unexpected situations and conditions.
7f. Maintains a culture of civility and kindness treating all individuals
with dignity and respect.
7g. Demonstrates professionalism, including attention to appearance,
demeanor, respect for self and others, and attention to professional
boundaries with patients and families, staff and faculty.
7h. Remains alert and attentive during clinical time.
7i. Performs duties in a reliable, responsible, and dependable manner.
7j. Provides evidence of preparation for clinical experiences
7k. Arrives at clinical experiences and completes work on time.
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
139
Mid-Semester Evaluation
Instructor Comments:
Student Comments:
Student’s Signature: ________________________________________ Date ____________________
Instructor’s Signature: ______________________________________ Date ____________________
Final Evaluation
Instructor Comments:
Student Comments:
Student’s Signature: ________________________________________ Date ____________________
Instructor’s Signature: ______________________________________ Date ____________________
Approved: 2005
Revised: Fall 2015
140
REMEDIATION PLAN AND OUTCOME
Please type this document
Criteria
Description of unsatisfactory behavior
Please use back of form if necessary for additional detail
PLAN
The SPECIFIC skills, knowledge, and COMPETENCIES that must be demonstrated to meet
course objective(s) including time frame when appropriate:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Suggested resources and activities:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Failure to meet the expectations of the remediation plan and all clinical objectives will result in a
clinical failure for this course.
Instructor’s Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________
Student’s Signature:_____________________________ Date:____________________
Date of Follow-up Conference:______________________________________________
OUTCOME
Follow-up conference (Please check one of the following):
Has overcome deficiencies and now meets objective(s)
Has not overcome deficiencies and does not meet objective(s)
Comments:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Instructor’s Signature:___________________________ Date:____________________
Student’s Signature:_____________________________ Date:____________________
Approved: 2005; 11/2017
Revised: Fall 2015; 1/2018
141
ACADEMIC SUCCESS PLAN
Academic Success Plan Process – Course Exam Grade <77%
1. The following statement is to be included in the course syllabus:
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Academic Success Plan is designed to support academic
achievement. Students, in collaboration with the Academic Success Coach and the nursing faculty, are
strongly encouraged to actively participate in the Academic Success Plan for theory and clinical
components of this course. An Academic Success Plan can be initiated by the course coordinator,
clinical faculty, or the student in conjunction with the Academic Success Coach for unsuccessful
assessment levels of your Critical Thinking examinations, an exam grade <77%, clinical skill
performance, or any other academic performance issues. Your Academic Success Plan will differ
based on the reason for the referral. For the purposes of the Academic Success Plan, an exam
constitutes any assessment worth 10% or more of the final course grade. Participation in the
Academic Success Plan is voluntary, and the student is responsible for follow through and
completion of the Academic Success Plan.
2. The Academic Success Plan is initiated by the Course Coordinator for any student who receives
<77% on a nursing course exam worth 10% or more of the final course grade. This plan will be
generated immediately upon grade availability. The course coordinator will contact the student via the
PSU email account using the student notification email template (see attachment). The Academic
Success Coach will be copied on this email message. The student and Course Coordinator will
determine a mutually agreeable meeting time within five business days.
3. The Course Coordinator initiates one Academic Success Plan per course following the first grade
received of < 77% on an exam worth 10% or more of the final course grade. It is the student’s
responsibility to continue to track progress and to seek assistance from the Academic Success Coach
and Course Coordinator.
4. The student meets with the Course Coordinator within five business days to complete a content and
exam review and identify any test-taking areas of concern (Refer to Step 1: Student and Course
Coordinator).
5. Upon completion of Step 1, the Course Coordinator electronically forwards the Academic Success
Plan to the Academic Success Coach.
6. The student then schedules an appointment with the Academic Success Coach within
five business days to discuss additional strategies for success (Refer to Steps 2 and 3: Student and
Academic Coach).
7. Upon completion of Steps 2 and 3, an electronic copy of the form is given to the student. The
Academic Success Coach places the original document in the student’s file.
8. Follow-up appointment(s) are at the discretion of the Student and Academic Success Coach. A
MINIMUM of one additional follow-up meeting is recommended prior to the end of the course.
9. The Academic Success Coach places a brief note in Starfish advising notes indicating that an
Academic Success Plan has been initiated for the course.
142
6/01/2016
Revised 8/1/2016
Academic Success Plan – Course Exam Grade<77%
Student’s Name: ______________________ Date Initiated: _____________
Course: _____________________________
Purpose of the academic success plan:
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing’s Academic Success Program is a proactive approach to
support academic achievement. Students, in collaboration with the Academic Success Coach and the
nursing faculty, are strongly encouraged to actively participate in the Academic Success Program.
Participation in the Academic Success Program is voluntary and student accountability is recognized as
an important characteristic of academic success. The student is responsible for follow through and
completion of an Academic Success Plan.
Reasons for contact:
Exam score in a nursing course of less than 77% on an examination or assignment worth 10% or more
of the final course grade. Examination/Assignment Score = __________
Outcome: Student will achieve a grade of 75% or higher in all future exams/assignments.
Plan:
Step 1: Student and Course Coordinator – will meet within approximately 5 days of grade
availability.
● Meet with Course Coordinator and identify content requiring review and remediation.
● Complete exam review with Course Coordinator and identify content and test taking areas of
concern.
__ Needs to understand information more thoroughly
__ Needs to read stem more carefully and not miss key words
__ Needs to review all options before answering a question
__ Needs to complete required learning activities & practice assessments in ATI
__ Needs to pace self through exam and not hurry
__ Needs to be prepared for exam by:
__completing all assigned readings
__studying every day
__not cramming the night before the exam
___Other:
● Review performance in the ATI Self-Assessment Inventory PRIOR to meeting with the
Academic Success Coach.
Step 2 is to be scheduled by: ___________________ (within approximately 5 days of Step 1)
Course Coordinator Signature: __________________________________ Date: _________
143
Academic Success Plan – Course Exam Grade<77%
Step 2: Student and Academic Coach.
●Review the ATI Self-Assessment Inventory and identify learning style
●Identify barriers to learning:
___ Academic Factors (inability to meet academic demands, lack of a daily study
routine, insufficient note taking, lack of self-testing prior to exams etc.)
___ Environmental Factors (i.e. finances, support systems, family responsibilities,
employment, housing etc.)
___ Affective Factors (i.e. cultural values & beliefs, self-efficacy, motivation etc.)
___ Psychological Factors (i.e. stress, anxiety, mental well-being etc.)
___ Physical Factors (i.e. physical health, etc.)
___ Student Characteristics (i.e. age, prior experiences with school and work, language,
first generation college student etc.)
Adapted from: Jeffries (2004) Model of Nursing UG Retention and Success.
___Other:
●Methods to improve study habits and test-taking skills:
___ Complete class prep
___ Identify & capitalize on individualized learning style(s)
___ Participate in class discussions
___ Implement test-taking strategies as discussed with Academic Success Coach
___ Identify and participate in a study group
___ Seek peer-to-peer or other tutoring
___ Implement more effective study habits as discussed with Academic Success Coach
___ Other:
● Access the Learning Resource Center for additional assistance with_______________
● Referral to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)_____________
● Other referrals_________________________
Books/Written Materials given/lent to student:_____________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
144
Academic Success Plan – Course Exam Grade<77%
Step 3: Student Goals for Success
Student is recommended to identify a minimum of two goals for success.
1.
2.
Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: __________
Date of follow-up meeting: ______________________________________Time: ___________
_____ Copy to Student _____ Copy to Student File
Follow-Up Evaluation:
● Student meeting desired outcome; course grade currently greater than 75%.
●Student not meeting desired outcome:
____ Continue with current plan.
____ Continue with revised plan as indicated below.
____ Additional meetings with Academic Coach.
Revised Plan:
Student’s Goals for Success:
Student Signature: __________________________________________ Date: ______________
Continued Planning:
06.01.15
Rev. 07.18.16
Rev. 09.07.17
Rev. 09.26.18
145
Clinical Success Plan Process – Clinical Skills
1. A Clinical Success Plan is NOT a Clinical Remediation Plan. Faculty and students should
review the clinical evaluation tool and policy on clinical remediation. The purpose of the
Clinical Success Plan is to proactively support the development of clinical skill performance
(e.g. PPE, aseptic technique, catheterization). Student participation is voluntary.
2. A Clinical Success Plan does not indicate a clinical failure.
3. When a clinical instructor identifies a need for further practice in a clinical skill, he or she
provides the student with immediate feedback and advises the student that a clinical success
plan is recommended.
4. The clinical instructor and student develops a clinical success plan using the appropriate form
and communicates it to the lab coordinator, course coordinator, academic success coach, and
student within 24 hours via Penn State email accounts.
5. Within 48 hours the student contacts the lab coordinator or designee and schedules a practice
session. It is the responsibility of the student to come prepared to the practice session and carry
out the plan as recommended with the assistance of the Lab Coordinator or designee.
6. Upon completion of the scheduled practice session, the Lab Coordinator or designee forwards a
copy of the completed Clinical Success Plan to the Academic Success Coach. The student
receives a copy of the completed form and shares this with the Clinical Instructor on the next
scheduled clinical day.
7. A brief note indicating that a Clinical Success Plan has been initiated is entered into Starfish
advising notes by the Academic Success Coach.
6/01/2016
Revised 8/1/2016
146
CLINICAL SUCCESS PLAN
Student’s Name: Clinical Date:
Course:
Reason for Plan:
Expected Student Outcome:
Referring Faculty Signature: Date:
Clinical Plan Steps:
1. The student will follow the process of scheduling time in the lab for the specified review.
2. The student will complete a self-guided review related to the identified clinical issue within 5
business days of meeting with clinical faculty. This review will utilize resources such as ATI
skills modules, textbooks, lab modules, etc., used previously in the program to teach this skill.
3. The student will come to the lab prepared for an effective practice session at the scheduled time.
4. At the completion of the practice session, the student will demonstrate proficiency of the skill to
the Lab Coordinator/designee. If unsuccessful, additional practice time should be scheduled.
5. A copy of the completed form will be forwarded to the Academic Success Coach by the Lab
Coordinator. The Academic Success Coach will place the form in the student file and will
document a brief note in Starfish.
6. The student will share a copy of the completed plan with the Clinical Instructor.
Lab Coordinator/Designee Comments:
No further practice time required.
Further practice time recommended. The next practice session is scheduled on: _______
Lab Coordinator’s/designee signature: _____________________________ Date: ____________
Student’s Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ____________
6/01/2016
Revised 8/1/2016
147
Academic Success Plan - General
STUDENT’S NAME: DATE:
COURSE:
PURPOSE OF THE ACADEMIC SUCCESS PLAN:
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing’s Academic Success Program is a proactive approach to
support academic achievement. Students, in collaboration with the Academic Success Coach and the
nursing faculty, are strongly encouraged to actively participate in the Academic Success Program.
Participation in the Academic Success Program is voluntary and student accountability is recognized as
an important characteristic of academic success. The student is responsible for follow through and
completion of an Academic Success Plan.
REASON FOR CONTACT:
PLAN:
EXPECTED OUTCOMES:
STUDENT GOALS:
The next meeting date is: ________________________________________
The Academic Success Plan is designed to support academic achievement. Students are strongly
encouraged to actively participate in the Academic Success Plan.
___I agree to actively participate in the Academic Success Plan.
___I choose not to participate in the Academic Success Plan.
_________________________________ _____________________________ ________
Student Signature Academic Success Coach Signature Date
6/01/2016
Revised 8/1/2016
148
ACADEMIC DIFFICULTY NOTIFICATION LETTER
Academic Difficulty Notification Letter
Date
Dear (Student Name):
One charge of the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing’s (Nese CON) Undergraduate Admissions
and Standards Committee is the mid-course identification of students experiencing academic difficulty.
Data collected over the years indicate that those who seek help early successfully complete the course.
We are committed to helping you succeed in the nursing program.
We have been notified that you are experiencing difficulty in the (Theory / Clinic) portion of (Course).
While the ultimate responsibility for success in a course is yours, we suggest the following steps to
assist you in attaining that success:
Meet with the Course Coordinator and/or clinical instructor for specific suggestions related to
your success in the course
Obtain suggestions from your faculty adviser and/or the Nese CON Academic Success Coach
about University resources such as counseling services, testing assistance, study skills, or peer
tutoring.
If either one of the above actions is unsatisfactory to you, you may contact me for the
assignment of an advocate from the Committee.
Any student who unsuccessfully repeats or attempts the same required nursing course or two different
required nursing courses will be dismissed from the nursing major. Please review the complete
Academic Progression Policy in the Student Handbook, which is located on the Nese CON website
https://www.nursing.psu.edu/student-handbooks/.
Please let us know if we can be of further assistance to you. We wish you success in the future.
Sincerely,
Christine A. McCombie, MS, RN, CNE
Chair, Undergraduate Admissions and Standards Committee
cc: (Adviser & Course Coordinator)
Rev. 3/6/2016, 2/26/2018, 10/5/2018
Updated: 6/5/2019, 10/8/2021
