Academic Standards
Academic Standards
All nursing students are expected to exhibit the attributes of accountability, integrity, professionalism, regard for self, regard for others, respect, responsibility, safety, and theoretical competence. These attributes are described in the following academic standards and examples. Details of the relevant policies regarding satisfactory academic progress, academic dismissal, and academic probation are found in the policies section of this handbook. Violations of these standards may result in sanctions including, but not limited to, a written warning, required compliance, probation, a probationary contract for continued coursework, mandatory leave of absence, and/or dismissal from the School of Nursing. Note: Examples are illustrative and not intended to encompass all specifically desired actions.
As a nursing student, you will:
1. Assume personal responsibility for your nursing education.
- Example: Attend classes and labs as assigned and be an active participant; be prepared for classes and practicum; initiate consultation with faculty about practicum/academic progress.
2. Demonstrate accountability in the practicum area and in coursework.
- Example: Meet obligations for practicum as outlined in the course syllabus or by the faculty or agency policy; meet obligations for coursework as outlined in the course syllabus; communicate absence due to illnesses and other emergencies.
3. Maintain integrity in scholastic activities
- Example: Scholastic dishonesty means plagiarizing; cheating on assignments or examinations; engaging in unauthorized collaboration on academic work; taking, acquiring, or using test materials without faculty permission; submitting false or incomplete records of academic achievement; acting alone or in cooperation with another to falsify records or to obtain dishonestly grades, honors, awards, or professional endorsement; altering, forging, or misusing a University academic record; or fabricating or falsifying data, research procedures, or data analysis.
4. Base actions in the practicum area on a sound knowledge base.
- Example: Know about the patient’s pathology; understand the meaning of lab values; understand the implications of the patient's treatment plan.
5. Seek appropriate assistance from faculty, staff, or peers when caring for patients.
- Example: When in doubt about what to do, consult with faculty or staff nurse before intervening; follow agency procedures for collaboration.
6. Engage in the evaluation of your own educational process.
- Example: Complete end of semester evaluations; provide faculty with constructive feedback as appropriate or as requested; examine your progress in attaining the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to the role of nursing.
7. Engage in appropriate self-care behaviors that would not place clients at risk.
- Example: Remain home when ill; seek health care (physical and mental) as needed; get adequate sleep prior to practicum; serve as a model of healthy behaviors.
8. Be responsible for delineating and maintaining appropriate boundaries.
- Example: Achieve a balance between your educational needs and the client's care needs.
9. Maintain a professional demeanor and appearance, including personal hygiene, in the classroom and the practicum area.
- Example: Follow the dress code of the agency; use respectful non-offensive language; communicate using appropriate spoken/written language and nonverbal communication as required by the profession.