Nese College of Nursing Policies

ACADEMIC PROGRESSION GUIDELINES - PH. D.

PH.D. PROGRAM PROGRESSSION

Progression in the Ph.D. program is based on satisfactory scholarship in required and support courses as well as adequate progress in the project. The policy related to academic progression in the doctoral program in nursing is based on the Graduate School’s policy stating that one or more failing grades or a cumulative grade point average below 3.0 for any semester or combination of semesters may be considered as evidence of failure to maintain satisfactory scholarship and may result in the student being dropped from the University. Beyond a failing grade and/or the cumulative/semester GPA, the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing considers all quality grades (including grades in required core courses and other courses) as indicators of satisfactory academic progress in the Ph.D. program in Nursing.

PH.D. REQUIRED CORE COURSES

Required core courses include prescribed courses in the Nursing Science and Research Methodology/Statistics cores (as defined by the Ph.D. Program Curriculum). The academic standards adopted by the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing for all students apply to students enrolled in the Ph.D. program: 

1. Successful completion of prerequisite courses is defined as a grade of “B” (83%) or better according to the University grading scale. 

2. Successful completion of required core Ph.D. courses (Nursing Science and Research Methodology/Statistics cores) is defined as a grade of “B” (83%) or better according to the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing grading scale. 

3. All prerequisite courses and required core Ph.D. courses may only be repeated one time. 

4. A student who earns a “B-” or lower in any two required core Ph.D. courses will be dismissed from the program. 

5. Students who wish to return to the University after a leave of absence or to re-enroll after withdrawing will apply to resume study, and if accepted, re-enter under the curricular requirements at the time of re-enrollment. If a significant amount of time has lapsed, additional coursework may be required. Scheduling may depend on availability of space. 

Approved by Graduate Affairs Committee February 6, 2023.

OTHER COURSES FOR PH.D. PROGRAM

All other courses included in a doctoral student’s program of study contribute evidence of successful academic progression. The designation of “other courses” includes individual specialty course, and any other course in the program of study (typically designated as electives). Evidence of successful progression in these courses is evidenced by a grade of B or higher. Achievement of a B- or lower in any course is considered unsatisfactory and results in a formal review of academic progress (regardless of cumulative/semester GPA).

Approved by Graduate Affairs Committee February 6, 2023.

ACADEMIC PROGRESSION GUIDELINES - DNP 

DNP PROGRAM PROGRESSION

Progression in the doctoral program is based on satisfactory scholarship in required and support courses and adequate progress in the project. The policy related to academic progression in the doctoral program in nursing is based on the Graduate School’s policy stating that one or more failing grades or a cumulative grade point average below 3.0 for any semester or combination of semesters may be considered as evidence of failure to maintain satisfactory scholarship and may result in the student being dropped from the University. Beyond a failing grade and/or the cumulative/semester GPA, the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing considers all quality grades (including grades in required core courses and other courses) as indicators of satisfactory academic progress in the D.N.P. program in Nursing. When a student drops a course after the regular drop/add period, it is considered a late drop. This action will be reflected on his/her record with the symbol LD. 

DNP COURSE REQUIREMENTS 

Required core courses include prescribed courses in the Nursing core (as defined by the D.N.P. Program Curriculum). The academic standards adopted by the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing for all students apply to students enrolled in the doctoral program:

1.  Successful completion of prerequisite courses is defined as a grade of “B” (83%) or better according to the University grading scale. 

2.  Successful completion of required nursing courses is defined as a grade of “B” (83%) or better according to the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing grading scale.

3. All prerequisite courses and required Nursing courses may only be repeated one time. 

4. A student who earns a “B-” or lower in any two required nursing courses will be dismissed from the nursing program. 

5. D.N.P. degree candidates are limited throughout their degree program to 6 credits of late drop that occur while the student is in academic jeopardy and/or after 50% of the semester has been completed.   

6. A combination of 6 credits of late drop that occur while the student is in academic jeopardy and/or after 50% of the semester has been completed and one “B-” will result in dismissal from the nursing program. 

7. Students who wish to return to the University after a leave of absence or to re-enroll after withdrawing will apply to resume study, and if accepted, re-enter under the curricular requirements at the time of re-enrollment. If a significant amount of time has lapsed, additional coursework may be required. Scheduling of both didactic and clinical courses may depend on availability of space. 

8. Students enrolled in courses with a practicum are required to complete at least half of their practicum hours by the semester mid-point or be deemed in academic jeopardy.  

Approved by Graduate Affairs Committee September 26, 2016 

OTHER COURSES FOR DNP PROGRAM

All other courses included in a doctoral student’s program of study contribute evidence of successful academic progression. The designation of “other courses” includes statistics courses that are allocated to the core requirements; support courses; and any other course in the program of study (typically designated as electives). Evidence of successful progression in these courses is evidenced by a quality grade of B or higher. Achievement of a B- or lower in any course is considered unsatisfactory and results in a formal review of academic progress (regardless of cumulative/semester GPA).  

ACADEMIC PROGRESS REVIEW

D.N.P PROGRAM

Graduate faculty perform a formal review of academic progress annually. Students are required to complete the update the D.N.P. student Individual Development Plan (IDP) in conjunction with the D.N.P. adviser. The IDP is then reviewed by the Director of the D.N.P. Program. A student who fails to make satisfactory progress toward program completion will meet with the D.N.P. adviser and the Director of the D.N.P. Program. A remediation plan will be developed, and the student will receive a letter from the Associate Dean for Graduate Education incorporating the recommendations. If the student does not follow the recommendations, the student may be dismissed from the program. 

A formal review is also initiated when a student fails to meet The Graduate School’s GPA requirements; achieves a quality grade of B- or lower in any required core course; or achieves a quality grade of B- or lower in any other course. In these cases, the D.N.P. adviser or the Director of the D.N.P. Program counsels the student and a remediation plan is developed with guidance of the Graduate Admissions and Standards Committee, if needed. The remediation plan will be addressed in subsequent annual evaluations to describe the student’s progress until the remediation has been successfully resolved. 

PH.D. PROGRAM

Advisers complete a formal annual review of academic progress. Students are required to update their Individual Development Plan (IDP) annually in conjunction with their academic adviser. The adviser determines whether adequate progress has been made and makes recommendations to the Director of the Ph.D. Program. A student who fails to make satisfactory progress toward program completion will receive a letter from the Director of the Ph.D. Program with these recommendations. If the student does not follow the recommendations, the student may be dismissed from the program.

A formal review is also initiated when a student fails to meet The Graduate School’s GPA requirements or achieves a quality grade of B- or lower in any course. In these cases, the academic adviser or the Director of the Ph.D. Program counsels the student, and a remediation plan is developed with guidance of the Graduate Standards Committee, if needed. The remediation plan will be addressed in subsequent annual IDP review meetings to describe the student’s progress until the remediation has been successfully addressed. 

Updated by the Graduate Affairs Committee April 6, 2009

ANNUAL STUDENT EVALUATION: INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLANS

The Individual Development Plan (IDP) is used for both planning and evaluative purposes. The initial IDP is completed during the first doctoral intensive (NURS 590). In this phase, the student sets both short term and long terms educational and career goals, using the D.N.P. Essentials as a guide. 

Following the initial completion of the IDP, students meet with their adviser to finalize the IDP. Advisers are responsible for evaluating the progress of their advisees each spring. Annually, the IDP is reviewed and evaluated to provide an opportunity for students to communicate their accomplishments, express concerns about their growth and development, and discuss potential opportunities for teaching, research, and other professional activities that the adviser and student believe are important to pursue.  

The annual evaluation IDP update must be completed prior to April 30 of each academic year. All D.N.P. students should update the IDP, submit the form to their adviser, and make an appointment to discuss their evaluation. The adviser will complete the adviser’s section on the form prior to meeting with the student and both student and advisers should receive a final copy of the form.  The adviser will place a copy in the student advising file in box. 

BUSINESS CARDS - ROSS AND CAROL NESE COLLEGE OF NURSING

A Ph.D. student wishing to purchase business cards will do so at their own financial responsibility. Business cards can be ordered by contacting Kori Johnsonbaugh at 814-863-0245 or kkj10@psu.edu. The University offers a variety of styles; however, the following example is the information that is required by the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing.  

Credentials: You may not use Ph.D.(c), but instead should use the highest degree that you have earned to date after your name. You may add: Ph.D. Student, Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing. Cell Number: Please make certain voicemail message is professional.  

Student Name, Credentials
__________________________________________________________________

203 Nursing Sciences Building                                                       Cell Number: 

The Pennsylvania State University 

University Park, PA 16802-6509                                                    Email Address: 

www.nursing.psu.edu 

Official PSU logo to appear here 

_________________________________________________________________

DEFERRAL OF ADMISSION

Students may defer enrollment (admission) into the Graduate the Ph.D., and D.N.P. program for up to three continuous semesters (which includes the summer) after the semester of admission. Any student wishing to defer enrollment should contact the Graduate Adviser as soon as possible with their intent to defer and their proposed semester of return.  

If two continuous semesters have passed from the initial semester of admission, the student must submit a new application by the prescribed application deadline of February 15th for Fall re-admission. 

ETHICAL BEHAVIORAL GUIDELINES - STUDENT

The Pennsylvania State University Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (Nese CON) Student Ethical Behavior Policy Guidelines provide specific details for students, faculty and administrators relative to student ethical behaviors, documentation and the appeal process. 

Penn State Nese CON students are expected to display behaviors that reflect the American Nursing Associations’ Code of Ethics for Nurses* as well as the Penn State Student Code of Conduct and the University and Nese CON Values. Students will be held accountable for exhibiting these Values of integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence and community. 

I.  Student Ethical Behavior Policy Guidelines 

A.  Student Ethical Behavior Policy Guidelines are available in the student handbooks. 

1. All students in the Nese CON Nursing programs acknowledge that they have read and understand all policies and information contained within the Student Handbook by submission of the Student Notification of Program Requirements form as part of the annual required compliance package. 

B.  Students will comply with the Penn State Student Code of Conduct. 

C.  Students will comply with all policies and restrictions of clinical partners, affiliated facilities and the nursing program (e.g., dress code, cell phone policy, parking, tattoos, body art, etc.) 

D.  Students will employ communication skills (e.g., verbal, non-verbal, written) that respect the dignity and worth of others. 

E.  Students will practice integrity and honesty in all actions and communications and avoid deceit, deception, lying, and any attempt to derail or mislead others. 

F.  Students will use nonviolent communication while discussing facilities and resolving conflicts with faculty and peers. Students are encouraged to reference the conflict resolution resources available in the student handbooks.  

G.  Students will respect the diversity of others. 

H.  Students will treat everyone with dignity and respect including peers, faculty, patients and others. 

I.  Students will honor confidentiality and privacy of patients, faculty, staff and peers (e.g., social media posts, in-class discussions). 

J.  Students will avoid defamation of clinical partners, faculty, and peers. 

K.  Any form of verbal, psychological, stalking and physical intimidation or aggression will not be tolerated. 

L.  Students are expected to be accountable to be on time for classroom and clinical experiences and to submit all assignments on time and as requested by faculty. 

M.  Students will submit program clearances and compliances as requested and within the established timeframe. 

N.  Substance abuse and intoxication (classroom, clinical, Nese CON affiliated activities) will not be tolerated and will be addressed through appropriate channels. 

O.  Students should be proud of their status as a Nese CON student and use these privileges appropriately. Students should neither represent themselves as a student nurse nor provide care unless in a scheduled student clinical experience. 

II.  Student Behaviors 

A.  The following steps will be followed when a student displays behavior that is not congruent with the Student Ethical Behavior Policy Guidelines: 

1. The person(s) who observed the behavior will contact a faculty member in the Program where the student is assigned. 

2. When a violation is alleged or suspected: 

a.  The faculty member will notify the student in person, via video conferencing (Zoom/Teams) or via email of the suspected or alleged violation. 

b.  The faculty member will discuss with the student in person or via video conferencing (Zoom/Teams) the suspected or alleged violation and the sanction(s) being considered. 

c.  The faculty member should follow up the discussion with an email to the student summarizing the discussion. 

3. The faculty member will review information provided and consult with the Program Director or Campus Coordinator. Other faculty and/or staff who are directly involved may also be consulted. 

a. Criminal violations will be immediately reported to the appropriate authorities. Violations will also be subject to the Nese CON Student Ethical Behavior Policy Guidelines and result in warnings up to and including dismissal from the Program. 

b.  Penn State Student Code of Conduct violations will be reported to the University’s Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response (OSACR). In addition, these violations will be subject to the Nese CON Student Ethical Behavior Policy Guidelines and result in warnings up to and including dismissal from the Program. 

c.  Student may be referred for counseling or other services that can be found at Red Folder at Penn State. 

4. The Program Director or Campus Coordinator and the faculty member will determine whether or not the suspected or alleged violation (incident) is a violation of the Student Ethical Behavior Policy Guidelines. 

a.  If the incident is determined to be a violation, it will be documented in Starfish as “Ethical Behavior Violation Level __.” No details about the incident will be added. 

1.) Level of the violation must be determined. Level of violations are as follows: 

• Ethical Behavior Violation Level 1 (FIRST VIOLATION): Student will receive a written warning which will include documentation that will be placed in the student file and purged upon graduation. 

• Ethical Behavior Violation Level 2 (SECOND VIOLATION): Student will receive a second written warning. The Program Director or Campus Coordinator will consult with a second Program Director or 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 upon graduation. 

• Ethical Behavior Violation Level 3 (THIRD VIOLATION): Student will receive a third written warning which will be reviewed by the Program Director or Campus Coordinator and the Assistant or Associate Dean for consideration of dismissal from the program. The warning will include documentation that will be placed in the student file and will be retained for three years post-graduation. 

NOTE: Violations are not required to progress through the above sequence. Serious violations may necessitate immediate dismissal from the program and will be determined by the faculty member(s) and the Program Director or Campus Coordinator after consultation with the Assistant and/or Associate Dean. The immediate dismissal action must be approved by the Nese CON Dean. 

b. If the incident is determined to not be a violation, it will not be documented in Starfish. 

III. Documentation 

A. Student Ethical and Behavior Documentation Form will be completed as follows: 

1. 1. Student name and PSU ID number 

   2. Description of Violation: Faculty member will complete the description of the violation to include pertinent information such as dates, times, place and level of violation. 

   3. Documentation of Meeting: Faculty member will document information about the meeting with the student and communicate the level of the violation at that time. 

a.  More than one faculty member is recommended to attend the meeting with the student. 

b.  The Program Director or Campus Coordinator is not required to be present; however, they must sign the Student Ethical Behavior Documentation form. 

c.  The student will be referred to counseling services and/or other resources found at Red Folder at Penn State. 

4.Outcome: The faculty member will document the outcome of the meeting where brief comments are noted in the appropriate area on the form. 

5. Signatures: All faculty members present at the meeting will sign the form. 

6. Student Comments: The student will be offered the opportunity to add written comment(s) and sign the form. Should the student refuse to sign the form, the faculty member will enter “refused” in the signature line. 

7. Program dismissal will be documented in Starfish by the Program Director or Campus Coordinator. 

8. The Program Director or Campus Coordinator will notify involved faculty members, the faculty adviser, the Assistant and/or Associate Dean and the Dean (if applicable) of the outcome. 

9. The completed form will be filed as follows: 

a. Forms that reflect program dismissals will be filed in the Dean’s office. 

b. Forms that reflect actions other than program dismissal will be filed in the student file. 

c. All forms will be retained for three years post-graduation and then purged. 

IV. Appeal Process 

A.  Student may appeal the ethical behavior violation. See the appeal process below. 

1. The student may appeal the decision within 10 business days of receiving the Student Ethical Behavior Documentation form. 

2. The written appeal letter must specify the reason the student believes this was not a violation. 

3. The student will send the written appeal letter via hard copy or email to the Associate Dean. 

4. The Associate Dean will review the student appeal letter and provide a written response to the student within 5 business days of receiving the student’s letter of appeal. 

a.  The Associate Dean’s letter will indicate whether the violation documentation will be upheld or purged from the student record. 

b.  This decision is final. 

5.  All appeals documentation will be filed with the original Ethical Behavior Documentation Form as described in III.A.9 above.  

*American Nurses Association Code of Ethics for Nurses 

Provision 1: The nurse practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity,  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  

Approved May 4, 2021 

Revised Spring 2023 

EXPECTATION FOR EXCELLENT WRITING AT THE GRADUATE LEVEL

 
All written work will be graded based on assignment content criteria.  However, all writing assignments are expected to demonstrate excellent graduate level writing, which includes writing that is free of typographical errors, misspellings, and punctuation errors.  Excellent writing also contains proper grammar and correct APA formatting (when applicable).  Writing should be concise, include relevant content and support, as well as meet assignment requirements in a well presented, easy to read format.  No points will be assigned for completing these requirements, but up to 10% of your assignment total grade may be deducted for not demonstrating excellent writing skills. We strongly encourage you to complete the study tutorial and utilize the APA resources if you need support. Students are encouraged to access the various resources available through The Graduate Writing Center at https://gwc.psu.edu/.  

 
FORMS - GRADUATE PROGRAM

For a complete listing of Graduate Program Forms, please visit the Forms page at the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing website: https://www.nursing.psu.edu/student-forms/. You will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader program to view these forms.  

IMPAIRED STUDENT NURSE 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 ("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.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE AND INTENTION

1. 1. Students enrolled in the CON at the undergraduate and graduate level engage in clinical rotations and training on the campus of The University and at various types of health care facilities, including, but not limited to, University skills or simulation laboratories, hospitals, private practice offices, long-term care facilities, clinics, schools and community agencies.

   2. 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.

   3. The University and the CON require all nursing students engaged in Clinical Activities be free from the influence of drugs and alcohol.

   4. 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.).

   5. 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 interfere with the safe and efficient performance of the Student's Clinical Activities.

DEFINITIONS

1. 1.  "Alcohol" means beer, wine and all forms of distilled liquor containing ethyl alcohol.

   2. "Clinical Activities" shall refer to those duties or activities required of 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 subject for purposes of medical care, treatment, or testing, and/or as part of a Clinical Program.

   3.  “Clinical Program” shall refer to the assignment of CON students to health care facilities, University skills or simulation aboratoeis, etc., for the purpose of gaining practical experience and/or engaging in the patient care, in fulfillment of degree or course requirements.

   4. “Drug” means hallucinogenic or narcotic drugs or other drugs/substances which tend to Impair judgement or coordination including, but not limited to, substances controlled by State or Federal laws.

   5.  “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.

   6.  "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 health care facilities, hospitals, physician offices, long-term care facilities, clinics, schools and community agencies.

   7. "Student" is an undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in the CON.

   8.  "Clinical Instructor/Supervisor" is the person the 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 CON. Supervisors are employees of the facility at which a Clinical Program takes place.

Note: Defined terms are capitalized herein.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL POSSESSION AND USE

1. Prohibitions. Except as provided in paragraph C below:

A.  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.

B.  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.

C.  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 CON rules and regulations.

2..  Exceptions. The following circumstances may constitute exceptions to this Policy:

A.  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 interfere with the safe and efficient performance of the Student's Clinical Activities.

B.  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.

3.  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 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 CON, this information will be utilized in the manner set forth herein.

PROCEDURES

1. 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 CON.

2. 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 oflay persons, other staff or faculty of the CON and/or health care professionals.

3. When finding of reasonable suspicion is made, the following steps will be implemented by the CON.

a. 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.

b. 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.

c. 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.

d. The Clinical Instructor will specifically inquire about whether the student has used drugs or alcohol and if so, the details of such use.

e. The Clinical Instructor shall consult with the Campus Nursing Program Coordinator for undergraduate students or the Graduate Option Coordinator, for graduate students, 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 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.

f. 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 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 CON. The Student will be accompanied by a CON representative and one other person at all times during transportation to the testing site.

g. The location will determine appropriate safe travel arrangements keeping in mind that two responsible adults must be in the vehicle with the student.

h. After testing is completed, the 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 CON. The PSU representative will remain with the student until transportation is obtained.

i. 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 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.

j. The University will make reasonable efforts to maintain confidentiality in the administrative handling of matters relating to Student Drug and Alcohol testing.

k. The Clinical Instructor/Supervisor will prepare a written report documenting the observed Student behaviors and submit same to the Campus Nursing Program Coordinator for undergraduate students or the Graduate Option Coordinator, for graduate students, and the appropriate Associate Dean of the CON.

4.  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 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.
   
   

A.  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 CON.

B.  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 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 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 CON curriculum.

C.  The fact of a positive test result shall be conveyed by the CON to the Office of Student Conduct for evaluation of whether the behavior has violated the Student Code of Conduct. The Office of Student Conduct 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 Conduct 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 CON will be notified of the outcome of this process.

D.  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.

APPEALS

1. A Student may appeal sanctions by sending a written statement of the basis for the appeal to the appropriate Associate Dean of the 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 Dean of the 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 CON shall convene a hearing committee, consisting of three (3) faculty members from the 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 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.

G.  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.

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.

 REINSTATEMENT TO CLINICAL PROGRAM/ACTIVITIES

1. 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 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 Conduct.

2. 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:

a.  Expiration of any academic suspension or disciplinary suspension.

b.  Written documentation of successful completion of all drug and alcohol services recommended or any recommendations by the Office of Student Conduct.

c.  Agreement to voluntarily participate in random Drug or Alcohol screening, the cost of which must be paid by the Student.

3. 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.

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 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

Revised Spring 2018

INFECTIOUS DISEASE POLICY

CLINICAL AGENCIES

A.     Clinical agencies utilized by the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing 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 Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing 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 Centers for Disease Control (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 Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing 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., needle stick or cut with a sharp object) or contact of mucous membrane or non-intact 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 November 2006.

LOGO - ROSS AND CAROL NESE COLLEGE OF NURSING

Use of the official Penn State (University Park) and/or Ross and Carol Nese Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing logo is restricted to Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing faculty and students. All students who use official logos for posters and oral presentations must have their presentation approved by their academic adviser. Once a student has graduated, official Penn State logos may only be used when a Penn State faculty person is listed as a co-presenter and has approved the presentation. 

NONDEGREE ADMISSION

If the student does not intend to pursue a graduate degree but want to take graduate-level courses for personal enrichment, professional development, permanent certification, or to apply for degree status at a later date, you can seek admission as a non-degree graduate student. Information on applying for non-degree graduate status may be obtained via the Web site at https://gradschool.psu.edu/graduate- admission/how-to- apply/. Non-degree students are not eligible to receive fellowships or graduate assistantships and preference for courses is given to degree students.

No more than 15 graduate credits of course work taken prior to admission to a graduate degree program may be applicable to a graduate program. (See “Non-degree Student” under Classification of Students.) Admission as a non-degree graduate student neither guarantees nor implies subsequent admission to a degree program. The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing strongly recommends that non-degree students take no more than 9 credits prior to applying to and being admitted to the graduate program. 

It is highly recommended that non-degree students enroll during the summer semester when more seats are available. Course controls placed on nursing core courses during the Fall and Spring semesters ensure matriculated students are granted seats. If a non-degree student wishes to enroll in a controlled course, they must contact the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing office. In this case, registration for non-degree students is granted only if seats are available.

PROFESSIONAL COMPLIANCES

• Ph.D. Program

• DNP Program

• MSN Program

RE-ENROLLMENT POLICY

 
The process of re-enrollment is required of all students who have withdrawn from the University. Withdrawn status is defined as a graduate student dropping all registered courses during the fall or spring semester or not registering for more than one semester with plans to enroll in a subsequent semester. If space is available, approval for re-enrollment will normally be given to students who were in good academic standing in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing prior to their withdrawal. Students initiate this procedure by completing the graduate resume study form (https://gradschool.psu.edu/graduate-admissions/how-to-apply/current-students/) and submitting it to Office of Graduate Enrollment Services; The Pennsylvania State University; 114 Kern Building, University Park, PA 16802-3396.

Only students in degree status and in good academic standing are eligible for re-enrollment in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing. Re-enrollment is a two-step process in which the student submits a formal request to the Associate Dean for Graduate Education in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing and completes the Graduate School’s resume study form. The Associate Dean for Graduate Education must approve the resume study prior to re-enrolling. 

The Graduate Program in the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing requires the student to have had a 3.0 GPA when last enrolled. Students who resume study in the Graduate Program must meet with their Ph.D. Advising Team to determine the plan of study. Additional coursework may be required for students who have withdrawn from graduate studies. This will be determined based on the period of time the student has been away from the University and prior course work completed. The plan of study may include a requirement of demonstrating continued competence. 

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

The Social Media policy provides Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing (CON) students with rules to participate in social media, including Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing social media and in non-Penn State 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. 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, mentors, nurses, Penn State faculty and staff, employers and co-workers included. Sanction will be determined by the University Office of Student Conduct, the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing Academic Integrity Committee, or the appropriate Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing 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 health care 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 Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing may take action to dismiss any student from the Nursing program who violates the Social Media Policy.   

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.
    
    

University Policy; Approved by Administration June 2013

References: 

ANA, (2011). Principles for social networking and the nurse. 

ANA (2011). Six tips for nurses using social media. 

Carlow University College 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.

WITHDRAWAL POLICY

 
Withdrawal from the University is defined as dropping all registered courses for the current semester or session or non-registration for one or more semesters. Officially withdrawing from the University will also cause a cancellation of scheduled and registered courses for any future semester. In the case of a “summer-only” withdrawal, fall registration will be maintained and re-enrollment/readmission is not necessary. Anyone who has withdrawn from the University should follow the graduate schools withdrawl process: Please refer to the graduate school's withdrawl process at the following link: https://gradschool.psu.edu/current-students/withdrawal-process/.

Matriculated students who need to drop all courses and wish to register in future semesters or who plan to take a semester off from graduate studies, are required to discuss their plans for withdrawal with their adviser at least four weeks prior to the semester in which they intend to withdraw. Following this discussion, the Associate Dean for Graduate Education will be notified, and a letter placed into the student’s academic file.