STUDENT HANDBOOK | 2016-2017
Quick Reference TABLE OF CONTENTS...................................................................................................... 4 SCHOOL OF NURSING ADMINISTRATION................................................................ 7 CONTACT INFORMATION............................................................................................ 10 ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS............................................................. 14 SCHOOL OF NURSING REQUIREMENTS................................................................... 19 ACADEMIC POLICIES.................................................................................................... 32 GENERAL INFORMATION............................................................................................ 50The information contained herein is not to be considered a contract and the Texas Tech University HealthSciences Center School of Nursing reserves the right to make changes to the information and policiescontained herein at such times as it deems appropriate. This Student Handbook supersedes all previouseditions. The provisions of the Student Handbook do not constitute a contract, express or implied, betweenany student, faculty member, Texas Tech University System (TTUS), Texas Tech University Health SciencesCenter (TTUHSC), and/or the TTUHSC School of Nursing.The TTUHSC School of Nursing shall notify the student of any changes to the TTUHSC School of NursingStudent Handbook occurring during the academic year. At any given time, the most current edition of theTTUHSC School of Nursing Student Handbook and TTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook will be availableon the TTUHSC website, www.ttuhsc.edu/son and www.ttuhsc.edu/studentservices.
TABLE OF CONTENTSSCHOOL OF NURSING ADMINISTRATION MSN APRN Programs and LeadershipDean............................................................................7 Programs...............................................................21Academic Departments............................................7Regional Support.......................................................8 Post-Master’s APRN, Education, and InformaticsAcademic Services.....................................................8 Certificates of Completion.................................. 21Business and Finance................................................9 DNP Program (Executive Leadership andADMISSIONS and STUDENT AFFAIRS, Advanced Practice Nursing Tracks)....................21EDUCATION SUPPORT SERVICES, ANDRETENTION COUNSELORS CONTACT Attendance Requirements......................................22INFORMATION Attendance/Inability to Attend Class and ClinicalAdmissions and Student Affairs............................10Education Support Services...................................11 Experiences...........................................................22Retention Counselors.............................................12 Clinical Attendance, Participation andACADEMIC EXPECTATION OF STUDENTS Responsibilities......................................................22Maintaining Good Standards................................14 Online Attendance and AssignmentAcademic and Professional Integrity....................14Account Management and User Deadlines...............................................................22Responsibilities........................................................15 Card Holder Requirements....................................22Civillity.....................................................................15 Undergraduate Programs (Traditional BSN, RNClassroom Behavior................................................15Computer Requirements........................................15 to BSN, Accelerated BSN Program)....................23Disruptive Conduct.................................................16 Certification Requirements....................................23Consequences of Disruptive Conduct..................16 Graduate DepartmentEmail Account.........................................................16 MSN Leadership Program and DNPEquipment (Stethoscopes, etc.).............................16Identification Badge................................................17 Program.................................................................23Name Badge........................................................... 17 MSN APRN Program (Nurse Practitioner andParticipation in Assessments (StudentFeedback)................................................................ 17 Nurse Midwifery Tracks), Post-Master’s APRNPhones.......................................................................17 Certificate (Nurse Practitioner Tracks)............. 23Professional Writing /APA.....................................18 Collaborative Program Requirements..................23Tuition and Fees......................................................18 Comprehensive Exams...........................................23 Degree Requirements..............................................24SCHOOL OF NURSING REQUIREMENTS Graduation/Diploma..............................................24Academic Requirements.........................................19 Intent to Graduate................................................24 Traditional BSN Undergraduate Department Graduation under a Particular Catalog............ 24 Traditional BSN Program....................................19 Undergraduate Departments Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department Traditional BSN and Non-Traditional RN to BSN Program..............................................20 Departments.........................................................24 Accelerated BSN Program...................................20 Graduation with Honors.....................................24 Graduate Department Graduate Department MSN Leadership Program, MSN APRN Program (Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Midwifery Tracks) and DNP Program...............................................24 Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Midwifery Certificates of Completion and Graduation............................................................24 SON Commencement Ceremonies......................25 Diploma.................................................................25 Immunization Requirements.................................254 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
Liability Insurance...................................................26 Graduate DepartmentLicensure - RNs.......................................................26 MSN Leadership Program and DNPLicensure Applications...........................................26NCLEX Identification Requirements....................27 Program ................................................................38Personal Appearance/Uniform: Clinical Setting MSN APRN Program (Nurse Practitioner andand Simulation Center...........................................27Personal Appearance: Classroom Attire...............30 Nurse Midwifery Tracks..................................... 38Prerequisites and Corequisites...............................31 Course Syllabi..........................................................38Scholarships.............................................................31 Dean’s List/President’s List (UndergraduateSchool Schedule/Academic Calendar...................31 Programs).................................................................38 Dropping a Course..................................................39ACADEMIC POLICIES Early Alert Undergraduate Student AssistanceAcademic Advisement............................................32 Program....................................................................39 Traditional BSN Undergraduate Department Traditional BSN Undergraduate Department Traditional BSN Program....................................32 Traditional BSN Program....................................39 Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department RN to BSN Program.............................................32 RN to BSN Program.............................................39 Accelerated BSN Program....................................32 Accelerated BSN Program....................................39 Graduate Department Early Alert Graduate Student Assistance MSN Leadership Program and DNP Program....................................................................40 Graduate Department Program.................................................................33 MSN Leadership Program and DNP MSN APRN (Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Program.................................................................40 Midwifery Tracks).............................................. 33 MSN APRN Program (Nurse Practitioner andAcademic Misconduct............................................34 Filing Complaint...................................................34 Nurse Midwifery Tracks).....................................40 Timeline.................................................................34 Enrollment Out of Sequence..................................40Academic Grade Challenges/Appeals...................34 Grading Policies.......................................................40 Final Grade Appeal..............................................35 Course Grade Policy.............................................40 Procedural Appeal Process...................................35 Grade Reports.......................................................41Academic Dismissal/Appeals.................................36 Grade Scale...........................................................41 Procedure for Dismissal.......................................36 Grading Average (GPA).......................................41 Appeals Procedure for Academic Dismissal.......36 Grade Point Chart................................................42 Appeals Procedure for Non-Dismissal Independent/Individual Study Courses...............43 Leave of Absence (LOA) and Return from Leave Action(s)................................................................37 of Absence................................................................43Adding a Course......................................................37 Undergraduate Students......................................43Code of Ethics..........................................................37 Graduate Students................................................43Code of Professional Conduct (“Student NCLEX RN Exam Eligibility.................................43Code”).......................................................................37 Non-Grade Complaint or Grievance....................45Course Loads...........................................................37 Pass - Fail Option....................................................47 Traditional BSN Undergraduate Department Placement in Clinical Facility................................47 Traditional BSN Program....................................37 Placement in Course...............................................47 Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department Readmission.............................................................47 RN to BSN Program.............................................37 Undergraduate Programs....................................47 RN to BSN Transfer Between Course Graduate Programs..............................................48 Registration..............................................................48 Sections............................................................... 38 Suspension and Retention......................................48 Accelerated BSN Program.................................. 38 Textbooks.................................................................48TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 5
Unsafe Student Practices........................................48 Occupational Health and Blood-borneGENERAL INFORMATION Pathogens..............................................................60Access to Student Records (FERPA).....................50Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)...............50 Patient Care Equipment......................................60Career Services Center...........................................50 Patient Placement.................................................60Change of Contact Information............................51 State Privacy Policy.................................................60Confidentiality (HIPAA)........................................51 Student Advisory Councils for BothCounseling Services................................................51 Undergraduate and Graduate Departments........61Criminal Background Checks...............................52 Student Affairs.........................................................61Diversity and Inclusion...........................................52 Student Travel Policy...............................................61Drug Free Schools and Communities Act...........53 Tobacco Free Environment....................................61Employment.............................................................53 Transcripts................................................................61Faculty Office Hours...............................................53 Transfer Between Campuses..................................62Financial Information.............................................53 Withdrawal from the School of Nursing..............62Health Insurance.....................................................53 Undergraduate Nursing Students.......................62Health Services for TTUHSC Students................54 Graduate Nursing Students.................................62Incident/Injury Reporting and Investigation.....54Interprofessional Education...................................54Legal Services for Students.....................................54Library......................................................................54Locker Information (Lubbock Campus)..............55Media Authorization and Release.........................55Online Access...........................................................56Parking/Vehicle Registration.................................56Professional and Academic Conduct....................56Reference Letters/Recommendation Forms........56Registration of Convicted Sex Offenders.............56Relocation (Moving) to a State Other than theState of Texas............................................................57Research....................................................................57Safe Harbor...............................................................57Safety.........................................................................57SAKAI.......................................................................58Semester Hours........................................................58Sexual Harassment..................................................58Simulation................................................................58Social Media/Personal Web Sites and Web Logs -Guidelines for Students..........................................58Standard Precautions..............................................58 Environmental Control........................................59 Gloves.................................................................. 59 Gown................................................................... 59 Hand Hygiene.......................................................59 Linen......................................................................60 Mask, Eye Protection and Face Shield................606 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
SCHOOL OF NURSING ADMINISTRATIONMichael L. Evans, PhD, RN, FAAN Darlene Lacy, PhD, RN-C, CNEProfessor and Dean Associate Professor andUMC Endowed Chair for Excellence in Nursing RN to BSN Program Director Phone: (512) 635-6819ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS [email protected] BSN Undergraduate Department Laura Opton, DHSc, RN, CNETraditional BSN Program Associate Professor andKathryn Sridaromont, PhD, MSN Second Degree BSN DirectorAssociate Dean and Department Chair Phone: (806) 743-3506Phone: (806) 743-9243 [email protected]@ttuhsc.edu Debbie Sikes, DNP, RN, CNEAnn Hagstrom, MSN, RN, CNE Assistant Professor andAssistant Professor, Traditional BSN Program Veteran to BSN DirectorDirector of Admissions/Progressions Phone: (915) 494-1558Phone: (806) 743-2793 [email protected]@ttuhsc.edu Graduate DepartmentAmanda Veesart, PhD, RN, CNE MSN Advanced Practice RN Program (NurseAssistant Professor, Traditional BSN Program Practitioner and Nurse Midwifery Tracks) andDirector of Curriculum DNP Program (APRN Track)Phone: (806) [email protected] Emily Merrill, PhD, APRN, FNP BC, CNE, FAANPKyle Johnson, MSN, RN, CHSE Professor, Associate Dean and Department ChairAssistant Professor, Traditional BSN Program for Advanced Practice RN ProgramsClinical and Simulation Director Phone: (806) 743-2799Phone: (806) 743-9226 [email protected]@ttuhsc.edu Tara Hilliard, MSN, RN, ACNP-BCRuth Bargainer, MSN, RN, CNE Assistant Professor and Program Director, Adult-Assistant Professor, Regional Program Director Gerontology Acute Care NP TrackPhone: (325) 696-0517 Phone: (806) [email protected] [email protected] Undergraduate Department Kellie Bruce, PhD, RN, FNP-BCRN to BSN, Accelerated BSN Program: Second Associate Professor and Program Director, FNPDegree BSN and Veteran to BSN TrackMelinda Mitchell Jones, MSN, JD, RN Phone: (806) 743-9207Associate Dean and Department Chair [email protected]: (806) [email protected] School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 7
Rebecca H. Burpo, MSN, RN, CNM REGIONAL SUPPORTProgram Director, Nurse-Midwifery TrackPhone: (806) 743-7568 Permian [email protected] Sharon Cannon, EdD, RN, ANEF Professor and Medical Center Hospital RegionalKaren Esquibel, PhD, RN, CPNP-PC Dean Endowed Chair,Associate Professor and Program Director, Co-Director, Center of Excellence in Evidence-Pediatric NP (Primary and Acute Care) Tracks Based PracticePhone: (806) 743-9213 800 West 4th [email protected] Odessa, TX 79763 Phone: (432) 335-5150Susan J. Calloway, PhD, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, [email protected] Professor and Program Director, AbilenePsychiatric Mental Health Track Pearl Merritt, EdD, MSN, MS, FAANPhone: (512) 484-4005 Professor and Regional [email protected] 1674 Pine Street Abilene, Texas 79601MSN Leadership Programs (Administration, Phone: (325) 696-0503Education, and Informatics) and DNP Program [email protected] Cherry, DNSc, MBA, RN, NEA-BC ACADEMIC SERVICESProfessor, Associate Dean and Department Chairfor Leadership Programs ResearchPhone: (806) 743-9209 Alyce S. Ashcraft, PhD, RN, CNE, [email protected] Professor and Associate Dean for Research Roberts’ Endowed Practiceship in NursingPat Allen, EdD, RN, CNE, ANEF, FAAN Phone: (806) 743-2730 ext 226Professor and Director, MSN Nursing Education [email protected]: (806) 543-4760 Clinical Services and Community [email protected] Linda McMurry, DNP, RN, NEA-BC Executive Director, Larry Combest CommunitySusan McBride, PhD, RN, FAAN Health and Wellness CenterProfessor and Director, MSN Nursing Informatics Professor and Associate DeanTrack Phone: (806) 743-9571Phone: (817) 284-9888 [email protected]@ttuhsc.eduCindy Acton, DNP, RN, NEA-BC Outcomes Management and EvaluationAssociate Professor and Director, MSN Nursing Yondell Masten, PhD, WHNP-BC, RNC-OBAdministration Track Florence Thelma Hall Endowed Chair forPhone: (806)743-9200 Excellence in Women’s [email protected] Professor and Associate Dean Outcomes Management and Evaluation Phone: (806) 743-2747 [email protected] TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
Paula Simpson, DirectorPhone: (806) 743-4648Fax: (806) [email protected] and FINANCELinda LaneAssistant Dean, Business and FinancePhone: (806) [email protected] TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 9
ADMISSIONS and STUDENT AFFAIRS, EDUCATION SUPPORTSERVICES, AND RETENTION COUNSELORS CONTACTINFORMATIONADMISSIONS and STUDENT AFFAIRS BSN Transcript Evaluations3601 4th Street, STOP 6264 Rebecca Akin-Sitka, MEdLubbock, TX 79430 (806) 743-2573 / (800) 493-3954Phone: (806) 743-2730 / (800) 493-3954 Fax: (855) 282-5823Fax: (806) 743-1622 [email protected] J. Chapman, PhD BSN Enrolled Student Management -Associate Academic Dean, Traditional BSN and Second Degree BSNStudent Affairs and Education Support Services Tiffany HagerPhone: (806) 743-2736 (806) 743-4843 / (800) [email protected] Fax: (855) 282-5823 [email protected] Sullivan-Dawson, MEdSenior Director, Student Affairs, BSN Enrolled Student Management -Campus Life and Student Engagement RN to BSN(806) 743-2748 Janet Roberson, [email protected] (806) 743-3507 / (800) 493-3954 Fax: (855) 282-5824Undergraduate Department [email protected] AdvisingSonia Moore, MEd Pre-Matriculation Management(806) 743-9235 / (800) 493-3954 Geraldine FerrerFax: (855) 282-5822 (806) 743-9261 / (800) [email protected] Fax: (855) 282-5824 [email protected] Admissions - Traditional BSN, AcceleratedBSN Program: Second Degree BSN and Veteran Kristi Huguleyto BSN (806) 743-6450 / (800) 493-3954Elizabeth Martinez Fax: (855) 282-5824(806) 743-9234 / (800) 493-3954 [email protected]: (855) [email protected] SON Veterans Liaison Kyle ChapmanBSN Admissions - RN to BSN (806) 743-9648Tonya Ward, MBA [email protected](806) 743-2333 / (800) 493-3954Fax: (855) [email protected] TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2015-2016
Graduate Department Preceptorships and Clinical LearningMSN Advising and Admissions PartnershipsGeorgina Barrera Emilie Phillips Johnston(806) 743-2762 / (800) 493-3954 (806) 743-9228Fax: (855) 282-5826 [email protected]@ttuhsc.edu Data ManagementMSN Enrolled Student Management Christy BenninkLindsay Winti (806) 743-9205 / (800) 493-3954(806) 743-9647 / (800) 493-3954 Fax: (806) 743-1622Fax: (855) 282-5826 [email protected]@ttuhsc.edu Student Affairs Regional StaffMSN Program Support Abilene CampusVeronica Garcia Theresia Rountree(806) 743-2765 / (800) 493-3954 1674 Pine StreetFax: (855) 282-5826 Abilene, Texas [email protected] (325) 696-0556 Fax: (325) 676-3981DNP Advising, Admissions, and Student [email protected] Sullivan, MEd Permian Basin Campus(806) 743-2748 / (800) 493-3954 Cindy ShumardFax: (855) 282-5826 800 West 4th [email protected] Odessa, Texas 79769 (432) 703-5270Scholarships and DNP Admissions Fax: (432) 335-5169Heather Johnson [email protected](806) 743-3581 / (800) 493-3954Fax: (855) 282-5826 EDUCATION SUPPORT [email protected] Education TechnologyAffiliation Agreements Joe Ferrer, Managing DirectorStephanie Jones (806) 743-9215(806) 743-1732 / (800) 493-3954 [email protected]: (806) [email protected] Trey Albus, Senior Director (806) 743-4248Lindsey Lowry [email protected](806) 743-9866 / (800) 493-3954Fax: (806) [email protected] School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2015-2016 11
Customer Support Services Amarillo CampusRecruitment, Career Services Center, and Accelerated BSN ProgramInternal/External Relations Sharon Brewer, MSN, RNChristy Meriwether, Managing Director Phone: (806)414-9937(806) 743-4288 [email protected]: (888) [email protected] Austin/Hill Country Area Second Degree BSN ProgramCareer Services Center Alexis Mellem, MSN, RN, NNP-BCDonna Balko, Assistant Director [email protected](806) 743-9204Fax: (888) 972-6987 Dallas [email protected] Accelerated BSN Program Karen Schmidt, BSN, RNRecruitment [email protected] Cano, Director(806) 743-3056 Lubbock CampusFax: (888) 972-6987 Traditional BSN Program [email protected] Ann Hagstrom, MSN, RN, CNE Phone: (806) 743-2793Stephanie Nichols, Unit Coordinator [email protected](806) 743-9208Fax: (888) 972-9208 Marnette Winner, MSN, RN, [email protected] Phone: (806) 743-9256 [email protected] Engagement and CommunityRelations Second Degree BSN Kayla Talbott, Unit Coordinator Haley Rowden, MSN, RNC-NIC(806) 743-9247 Phone: (806) 743-2730Fax: (888) 972-6987 [email protected]@ttuhsc.edu Permian Basin CampusRETENTION COUNSELORS Traditional BSN Program Sonya Morris, BSN, RNAbilene Campus Phone: (432) 703-5286Traditional BSN Program [email protected] Alvarez, BSN, RNPhone: (325) 696-0524 Accelerated BSN [email protected] Adrian Mulig, BSN, RN, CEN, CVRN Phone: (432) 703-5106Accelerated BSN Program [email protected] Humphrey, BSN, RNPhone: (325) 696-0535 San Antonio [email protected] Veteran to BSN Diana Goodwin, MSN, RN Phone: (432) 352-6693 [email protected] TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2015-2016
Academic Retention and Success CoachRN to BSN Academic AdvisorJan RobertsPhone: (806) 743-2730Fax: (806) 743 [email protected] School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2015-2016 13
ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTSMAINTAINING GOOD STANDARDS expect School of Nursing students, as nursingEach student MUST meet the objectives of each professionals to adhere to the:area of study and is required to: • TTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook• Keep apprised of and adhere to the rules • American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of and regulations of TTUHSC Institutional Ethics for Nurses Student Handbook at http://www.ttuhsc. • Texas Board of Nursing Unprofessional edu/studentservices/documents/HSC_ Institutional_Student_Handbook.pdf, the Conduct Rules: School of Nursing Catalog at http://www. - Standards of Practice (Texas ttuhsc.edu/son/catalog.aspx, and policies Administrative Code §217.11) contained in the most current version of the - Unprofessional Conduct(Texas School of Nursing Student Handbook. Administrative Code §217.12)• Demonstrate a systematic, safe, accurate, timely, and efficient approach to accomplish Students who fail to uphold and/or comply each objective and use all materials efficiently. with the above codes and standards for safe and• Devote adequate time and preparation to professional nursing practice will be considered class and clinical activities to meet the stated in violation of the law and/or professional nursing objectives. standards. Students holding a license to practice• Demonstrate academic integrity in each nursing will be subject to the reporting laws on element of the student’s performance. unprofessional conduct.• Apply ethical behavior appropriate to the Academic integrity stands at the heart of the standards of a developing professional at School of Nursing. The SON is bound by a all times and particularly in relation to fundamental trust that professors and students maintaining the confidentiality of information alike undertake and present their work honestly. regarding patients and clients. Academic misconduct involves any activity that• Maintain personal health to accomplish the tends to compromise the academic integrity of essential functions as defined in the School of the University, or subvert the educational process. Nursing Catalog. This includes but is not limited to:• Be aware of professional issues and have the • Cheating ability to define a personal position in relation • Plagiarism to various issues. • Falsifying academic records• Participate in evaluating the area of study and • Misrepresenting facts ;and the School of Nursing. • Any act designed to give unfair academic• Maintain all practice standards, if licensed, as written by the Texas Board of Nursing advantage to the student or the attempt to Nurse Practice Act. http://www.bon.texas.gov/ commit such an act. nursinglaw/npa.html Each student is responsible to become familiar with the various regulations of the University.ACADEMIC and PROFESSIONAL Each student, in accepting admission, indicatesINTEGRITY a willingness to subscribe to and be governedAll students entering the School of Nursing by the rules and regulations of University andmust subscribe to the standards and codes of likewise be responsible for his/her own integrity.the profession. Patients and society as a whole For additional information please refer to the14 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
TTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook Part • Courteous and honest communication in bothII, E, Other Professional and Ethical School face-to-face and electronic environments.Standards, (2) School of Nursing. • Fair and just treatment of all individuals.ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT and USER • Fostering a diverse school community.RESPONSIBILITIES • Freedom from harassment and bullying.TTUHSC Institutional Policy 56.06 • Refraining from vulgar and offensiveeRaider is an account management system whichmakes it possible for students, faculty, and staff language.to obtain and access electronic resources at • Respectful of diverse cultures and points ofTTUHSC using a single username and password.An eRaider username and password are required view.to access many of these resources and to access All students, upon accepting admission to thethe TTUHSC domain. New students, faculty, TTUHSC School of Nursing, agree to theseand staff receive an eRaider account upon expectations. The Student Civility Contractcoming to the Health Sciences Center; access is (Attachment A) will be included with alldependent upon account types (i.e. faculty, staff, new student orientation information, and alland students) and department requirements. incoming students will acknowledge receipt andQuestions regarding eRaider account information understanding of this contract. Any breach of thisshould be directed to the I.T. Solutions Center at contract may result in disciplinary consequenceseach respective campus. that may include the student being subject to immediate dismissal from the program/School of Nursing.CIVILITY CLASSROOM BEHAVIORThe TTUHSC School of Nursing defines civility School of Nursing students and faculty haveas demonstrated behavior that 1) shows respect a responsibility for creating and maintainingtoward another, 2) causes another to feel valued, an appropriate learning environment in theand 3) contributes to mutual respect, effective classroom. The TTUHSC Institutional Studentcommunication and team collaboration. Such Handbook states, “An environment in which thedemonstration of actions contributes toward a privileges of citizenship are protected and thepositive environment for learning and working. obligations of citizenship are understood fostersWe acknowledge difference amongst us in terms freedom of discussion, inquiry, and expression.of values, interests and experiences. While on Accordingly, the University community hasany of our campus location, facilities, attending developed standards of behavior pertaining toany institution or school even, or any school students and to student organizations (p. 14).”electronic/cyber space (online course, email, COMPUTER REQUIREMENTStelephone, etc.), faculty, staff, students and visitors Students spend a considerable amount of timecan all have the expectation of civility from one utilizing resources available via the internetanother. including but not limited to checking theirThe School of Nursing view the following ideals as TTUHSC email while enrolled in the Schoolfundamental to civil behavior: of Nursing. Students must own a computer• Adherence to the values of the nursing to succeed in the chosen area of study; daily computer access is expected of all students. profession in dealing with students, colleagues Students enrolled in the Traditional BSN and associates. Undergraduate Program or DNP Program• Collegiality. are required to own a laptop to participate inTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 15
classroom learning activities. Students enrolled grade Related)). If the student leaves the class,in the Accelerated BSN Program must have a the student shall not receive credit for in-classwebcam. Students enrolled in the RN to BSN activities that day. If such action results in a finalProgram must have a webcam and microphone grade the student believes is incorrect, the studentfor online course work. The following website should follow the process outlined in the policycontains specific computer system requirements: for Academic Grade Challenges/Appeals.http://www.ttuhsc.edu/son/help/system-requirements.aspx. Students should consider the use of electronic technology, such as laptop computers or tablets,DISRUPTIVE CONDUCT during class as a privilege, not a right. The courseThe TTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook instructor may withdraw such privileges on aprohibits actions against members of the case-by-case basis.University community, including, but not limitedto, behavior disruptive to the normal operation In addition, alleged disruptive behavior may beof the University, including students, faculty, and referred to the Department Chair by faculty orstaff. other students in accordance with the TTUHSC“Disruptive conduct,” defined by the School of Institutional Student Handbook. Sanctions forNursing, means conduct that substantially or disruptive behavior include but are not limited torepeatedly interferes with the instructor’s ability to dismissal from the School of Nursing.teach, or student learning. Such conduct includes,but is not limited to: EMAIL ACCOUNT• Excessive or disruptive tardiness (TTUHSC Institutional Policy 56.22)• Continuous distractive behavior during class The TTUHSC Information Technology Department assigns all students an official presentations TTUHSC email address provided with an initial• Utilization of electronic technology, such password code prior to new student orientation. TTUHSC will use this email address for official as laptop computers, tablets, cell phones, communications between the institution and etc., during lectures or other learning students. Students must use the provided environments for activities unrelated to class TTUHSC email address while enrolled in the or instruction being provided. School of Nursing. Emails will not be redirected• Distractive or inappropriate behavior in or forwarded to another non-TTUHSC account. online discussion boards, emails, chat rooms, Because students are responsible for monitoring web and/or video conferences, or other online and responding to any required information sent educational technology. to this email address, students should check the TTUHSC email daily in addition to other courseCONSEQUENCES OF DISRUPTIVE resources.CONDUCTIf a student continues disruptive conduct after EQUIPMENTthe course instructor notifies the student of the Students are responsible for purchasing andunacceptable conduct, the course instructor may maintaining certain pieces of equipmentrequest the student to leave class immediately. (stethoscopes, etc.). Faculty will specifyIf the student believes the action is not merited, equipment requirements and post thethe student may follow the process for non- requirements in the course syllabi. Any TTUHSCgrade grievance as outlined in this publication School of Nursing equipment checked out to(see Academic Grade Challenges/Appeals and students must return in the same condition asCompliant or Grievance Resolution (Non-16 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
received. A student must replace or pay TTUHSC unsolicited feedback to faculty and administratorsfor any damaged or misplaced equipment while in at any time in person, via phone, and via emaila student’s possession. messages. Completion of the following student satisfactionIDENTIFICATION BADGE assessment tools are mandatory:Student Identification Badge (TTUHSC Picture • Orientation Satisfaction Assessment toolID)TTUHSC students are required to obtain and -Completed during the first semester ofvisibly wear the official TTUHSC identification enrollment. Students access the assessmentbadge at all times while on any TTUHSC campus via an invitation sent to the TTUHSCor while participating in clinical. Unauthorized email address.use of a badge may be considered grounds for • Course Satisfaction Assessment tooldisciplinary action. An identification badge -Completed for each course enrolled everymay neither be altered, disfigured nor display semester. Students access the assessmentany items not part of the original badge. If lost, via an invitation sent to the TTUHSCa replacement must be obtained immediately email address.through the applicable TTUHSC Police • Combest Center Satisfaction Assessment toolDepartment at the following contact numbers: -Completed every semester of enrollment• TTUHSC Lubbock (806) 743-2000 with clinicals at the Combest Center.• TTUHSC Amarillo (806) 354-5568 Students access the assessment via an• TTUHSC Abilene (325) 676-7948 invitation sent to the TTUHSC e-mail• TTUHSC Permian Basin: Students need to address. • Satisfaction at Graduation Assessment tool contact the Regional Dean’s office, NOT the -Completed during the last semester of Police Department enrollment. Students access the assessment via an invitation sent to the TTUHSCRefer to TTUHSC OP 76.02 for more email address.information. See SON OP 10.015 Mandatory Student Satisfaction Tool Completion Policy for moreNAME BADGE information.School of Nursing Name Badge Students have an additional opportunity toThe School of Nursing name badge provides provide feedback six months after graduationidentification of the student and any applicable by completing the Alumni Assessment andcredentials. If lost, a replacement must be asking the employer to complete the Employerpurchased through the appropriate office. Assessment. The School of Nursing email the links to the Alumni and Employer assessments to thePARTICIPATION IN ASSESSMENTS admission email address listed with the Registrar’sStudent Feedback (SON OP 10.015) Office. Students should notify the RegistrarThe School of Nursing provides several of changes to email and permanent addressopportunities for student feedback regarding the information to ensure delivery.effectiveness of educational programs and services PHONESprovided for students. Both formal and informal Phones should be placed in silent mode orfeedback is solicited. Satisfaction and feedback turned off while students are attending anyare solicited through student membership on learning activity at the School of Nursing. PhoneSchool of Nursing Councils, focus groups, andcompletion of satisfaction assessment tools.Individuals or groups of students may provideTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 17
conversations on cell phones or communication at most bookstores. Students may contact theincluding but not limited to texting and/or TTUHSC Libraries for availability. Helpful APAtweeting must occur outside of the clinical and guidelines are located at http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/classroom areas. apa/ or on the School of Nursing Current Student resources page at http://www.ttuhsc.edu/son/PROFESSIONAL WRITING/APA current under Writing Resources.Vision Statement on Professional Writing in Resources to assist in the development ofNursing academic writing skills are also availalbe through• Writing is an essential component of the TTUHSC Writing Center at http://ttuhsc.uwc. ttu.edu/. the communication skills helping define TUITION and FEES professional nursing practice. Clear, precise, Student registration is not complete and logical, appropriate expression of ideas, enrollment is not official until tuition and fees opinions, and values in nursing is required are paid. If a student fails to make payment, the for the provision of quality care to clients, student’s registration will be canceled. The student families, and communities. To become is responsible for ensuring payment is received proficient in written communication, students in the Bursar’s office by the established due dates need continual development of the necessary announced each semester. Questions regarding technical, analytical, and persuasive skills. tuition and fees (payments, returned checks,• Course activities should integrate the late fees, refunds, etc.) should be directed to the continual development of communication TTUHSC Student Business Service Office at (806) skills throughout the curricula in the School of 743-7867. Refer to the TTUHSC Student Business Nursing. High standards for communication Services website for more information at: http:// (including written communication) lie at the www.fiscal.ttuhsc.edu/busserv/bursar/. heart of professional nursing practice and should be reflected in all curricular activities.• The discipline of nursing uses the American Psychological Association (APA) standards to guide clear and precise professional communication. APA format refers to the APA editorial style (grammar, quotations, etc.) as well as standards for content and organization of a paper and ways to express ideas clearly while reducing bias in language. Knowledge and use of the range of APA recommendations permit the attainment of desired written communication skills, in turn, enhancing the nursing profession and the health of populations served by nurses.The official format style for the School of Nursingis the current edition of the Publication Manualof the American Psychological Association(APA). School of Nursing students are requiredto purchase and use the most current PublicationManual of the American PsychologicalAssociation (APA). The publication is available18 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
SCHOOL OF NURSING REQUIREMENTSACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS • Removal from probation.Students who matriculate into the TTUHSC • Censure by written letter. Censure is definedSchool of Nursing are expected to maintaingood academic standing while enrolled in as the finding a student has committed anaccordance with the area of study requirements offense warranting discipline. It is a matter offor completion of the degree or certificate. record only.Minimum academic requirements are detailed • Suspension from the School of Nursing.in the following sections for each area of study • Dismissal from the School of Nursing.within the school: Traditional BSN UndergraduateDepartment, Non-Traditional Undergraduate The terms placed on the student’s transcript forDepartment (RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN the appropriate semester might include “academicProgram: Second Degree BSN and Veteran to dismissal”, “academic suspension”, “administrativeBSN), and the Graduate Departments: MSN probation”, “placed on probation”, “continuedLeadership Program, MSN APRN Program, Post- probation”, or “good standing”. Specific academicMaster’s certifications and DNP Program. requirements are outlined below:All progressions, probation, dismissal, suspension,and censure determinations are made based Traditional BSN Undergraduate Departmenton information received from the TTUHSC Traditional BSN ProgramRegistrar’s Office, the School of Nursing Office of Maintaining Minimum Academic RequirementsStudent Affairs, or any other applicable School of • Maintain a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) forNursing committee or source.In accordance with the School of Nursing each semester and overall cumulative.Catalog, School of Nursing Student Handbook, • A minimum grade of “C” is required in alland TTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook,the Programatic Councils or Deans may choose degree required courses (nursing and non-or recommend one or more of the following nursing).potential actions, as appropriate: • Students earning a “D”, “F” or “WF” in a• No progression in the area of study of nursing course are eligible to repeat the same course one time only pursuant to enrollment until the specified course(s) is/are recommendation of course faculty. repeated and an acceptable grade is achieved. • Students earning an overall cumulative (Undergraduate: “C”, Graduate: “B”) GPA or a semester GPA less than a 2.0 in• Academic probation due to overall and/or the semester of graduation are ineligible for semester grade point average below minimum graduation. required for area of study of enrollment. (Undergraduate: “C”, Graduate: “B”) Academic Dismissal• Academic probation due to earned grade in • Students earning a “D”, “F” or “WF” in required nursing course less than minimum grade required for area of study of enrollment. two nursing courses is cause for academic• Administrative probation due to violation of dismissal. professional conduct. • Students earning less than a 2.0 or cumulative GPA for two consecutive semesters. • Students earning a “D”, “F”, or “WF” in the same nursing course twice. • Students earning a “D”, “F”, or “WF” in one course may be required to take a remedial course simultaneously when retaking theTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 19
failed course. Handbook.• Any student academically dismissed from the Accelerated BSN Program: Second Degree BSN TTUHSC School of Nursing Traditional BSN and Veteran to BSN Program is ineligible for readmission. Maintaining Minimum Academic Requirements • Maintain a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) forFailing to meet expected standards may resultin academic dismissal at any time. This includes each semester and overall cumulative.but is not limited to unsafe clinical practice or • A minimum grade of “C” is required in allviolation of the TTUHSC Institutional StudentHandbook. degree required courses (nursing and non- nursing).Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department • Students earning an overall cumulativeRN to BSN Program GPA or a semester GPA less than a 2.0 inMaintaining Minimum Academic Requirements the semester of graduation are ineligible for• Maintain a 2.0 GPA for each semester and graduation. overall cumulative. Academic Dismissal• A minimum grade of “C” in all courses is • Any student who is unsuccessful (achieves a required. grade of “D” or “F” or “WF”) in any course• Students earning a “D”, “F” or “WF” in will be dismissed from the School of Nursing. a nursing course are eligible to repeat Failing to meet expected standards may result that course one time only pursuant to in academic dismissal at any time. This includes recommendation of the Non-Traditional but is not limited to unsafe clinical practice or Undergraduate Program Council. violation of the TTUHSC Institutional Student• Students earning an overall cumulative Handbook. GPA or a semester GPA less than a 2.0 in the semester of graduation are ineligible for Graduate Department graduation. MSN APRN Programs and Leadership Programs Maintaining Minimum Academic RequirementsAcademic Dismissal - MSN Programs• Students earning a “D”, “F” or “WF” in two or Grades are reviewed each semester and progression in the MSN Program is determined more nursing courses in one semester is cause by the Department Chair and MSN Council. for academic dismissal. • Graduate students must maintain a 3.0 GPA• Students earning a “D, “F” or “WF” in a third nursing course, even when the first two “D”s, with grades at “B” or above in all graduate “F”s or “WF”s have been replaced by a passing courses. grade upon retaking those courses. • Students earning a “C” or lower in a graduate• Students earning less than a 2.0 semester course are eligible to repeat the same course or cumulative GPA for two consecutive one time only pursuant to recommendation of semesters. course faculty.• Students earning a “D”, “F” or “WF” in the • Students earning an overall cumulative same nursing course twice. GPA or a semester GPA less than a 3.0 in the semester of graduation/completion areFailing to meet expected standards may result ineligible for graduation.in academic dismissal at any time. This includes • Students with a cumulative or semester GPAbut is not limited to unsafe clinical practice or below 3.0 are placed on academic probation.violation of the TTUHSC Institutional Student20 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
Academic Dismissal from the TTUHSC School graduate course twice.of Nursing MSN Program will result from the • Students earning a “C” or lower in a secondfollowing circumstances:• Students earning a “C” or lower in two or graduate course even though one graduate course has been retaken and a satisfactory more graduate courses in one semester grade of “B” or better has been obtained.• Students earning a “C” or lower in the same • Cumulative semester or cumulative GPA less than 2.0 for two consecutive semesters. graduate course twice• Students earning a “C” or lower in a second Failing to meet expected standards may result in academic dismissal at any time. This includes graduate course even though one graduate but is not limited to unsafe clinical practice or course has been retaken and a satisfactory violation of the TTUHSC Institutional Student grade of “B” or better has been obtained Handbook.• Cumulative semester or cumulative GPA less than 2.0 for two consecutive semestersFailing to meet expected standards may result DNP Program (Executive Leadership andin academic dismissal at any time. This includes Advanced Practice Nursing Tracks)but is not limited to unsafe clinical practice or Maintaining Minimum Academic Requirementsviolation of the TTUHSC Institutional Student Grades are reviewed each semester andHandbook. progression is determined by the Department Chair, DNP Director, and DNP Council.Post-Master’s APRN, Education and Informatics • DNP students must maintain a 3.0 GPA withCertificates of CompletionMaintaining Minimum Academic Requirements grades of “B” or above in all doctoral courses.Grades are reviewed each semester and Students receiving a “C” or lower in a doctoralprogression is determined by the Department course are eligible to repeat the same courseChair and the MSN Council. one time only pursuant to recommendation of• Graduate students must maintain a 3.0 GPA course faculty. • Students earning an overall cumulative with grades of “B” or above in all graduate GPA or a semester GPA less than a 3.0 in courses. the semester of graduation are ineligible for• Students achieving “C” or lower in a graduate graduation. course are eligible to repeat that course one • Students with a cumulative or semester GPA time only pursuant to recommendation of below 3.0 are placed on academic probation. course faculty.• Students earning an overall cumulative Academic Dismissal from the TTUHSC School GPA or a semester GPA less than a 3.0 in of Nursing DNP Program will result from the the semester of graduation/completion are following circumstances: ineligible for graduation/completion. • Students earning a “C” or lower in two or• Students with a cumulative or semester GPA below 3.0 are placed on academic probation more DNP courses in one semester • Students earning a “C” or lower in the sameAcademic Dismissal from the TTUHSC Schoolof Nursing MSN Program will result from the DNP course twicefollowing circumstances: • Students earning a “C” or lower in a second• Students earning a “C” or lower in two or DNP course even though one DNP course has more graduate courses in one semester. been retaken and a satisfactory grade of “B” or• Students earning a “C” or lower in the same better has been obtained • Cumulative semester or cumulative GPA less than 2.0 for two consecutive semestersTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 21
Failing to meet expected standards may result earned points of a late assignment per syllabusin academic dismissal at any time. This includes guidelines.but is not limited to unsafe clinical practice orviolation of the TTUHSC Institutional Student CARD HOLDER REQUIREMENTSHandbook. School of Nursing students must be a current card holder in one or more of the following upon entryATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS to the School of Nursing:Attendance/Inability to Attend Class and • Basic Life Support (BLS)Clinical Experiences • Advanced Cardiovascular Life SupportStudents are responsible for class participationand clinical attendance. (ACLS)• Instructors determine the effect of absences • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) • Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) on grades at the outset of a given course (see course syllabus). NOTE: Attendance Failure to maintain proper certification results in: requirements are mandatory. • Being withheld from clinical settings,• Faculty must report in writing to the student • Delaying progress through the nursing when absences may jeopardize the student’s standing in the School of Nursing. curriculum, and/or • A hold being placed on records, and/or NOTE: Excessive absences can constitute • Delaying graduation cause for dropping a student from class and issuing a grade of “WF”. “WF” is Assisting students to meet the card holder calculated in the cumulative GPA. requirements, the F. Marie Hall SimLife Simulation Center offers courses for:Clinical Attendance, Participation and • First AidResponsibilities • Basic Life Support (BLS) with Automated• Specific procedures for notifying course External Defibrillation (AED) training faculty and agencies about absences are given • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support during each course’s orientation session.• Students participating in officially approved (ACLS) trips are responsible for notifying faculty • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) of the departure and return schedules. The faculty so notified should not penalize For information contact the F. Marie Hall SimLife students for such absences, although the Simulation Center at (806) 743-2723. students are responsible for the material/ experiences missed. Undergraduate Programs (Traditional BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN Program: SecondOnline Attendance and Assignment Deadlines Degree BSN and Veteran to BSN)• Students are to be responsible for knowing Prior to enrollment in any undergraduate nursing degree program, a current Basic Life Support when online classes begin and to participate in (BLS) for Health Care Providers card issued by learning experiences as assigned in the course the American Heart Association or American syllabus and modules. Red Cross is required. Students MUST provide• If an assignment deadline cannot be met the evidence of CURRENT Healthcare Provider status student is responsible for notifying the faculty while enrolled for School of Nursing records. prior to the deadline and provide a plan for submitting the required work• Faculty have the privilege to reduce the total22 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS COLLABORATIVE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTGraduate Department Students enrolled in collaborative programs withMSN Leadership Program and DNP Program other institutions are expected to comply withGraduate students in the MSN Leadership the general expectations/requirements set byProgram and the DNP Program are required to: both institutions. The student is responsible for• Hold BLS certification upon entering the complying with the expectations/requirements from the other institution. Failure to comply with program and provide evidence of current both institutions’ requirements could be cause for certification while enrolled in the program. dismissal from the program(s).MSN APRN Program (Nurse Practitioner and COMPREHENSIVE EXAMSNurse Midwifery Tracks), Post-Master’s APRN Undergraduate (prelicensure) students mustCertificate (Nurse Practitioner Tracks) have a passing score on the comprehensiveGraduate students in the MSN APRN and examination administered in NURS 4620 forPost-Master’s APRN Certificate tracks prior to the Traditional BSN Undergraduate Program. Ifadmission must: the student is not successful on the examination,• Hold BLS certification upon entering and the student is required to meet with the course facilitator(s) to determine next steps in provide evidence of current certification while progression. In the Accelerated BSN Program: enrolled. Second Degree BSN and Veteran to BSN the• Prior to enrollment in the first population comprehensive exams are included in the focus course, students must: overall assessment of student performance in a designated course during the final semester of -For the Family and Adult-Gerontology enrollment. Acute Care MSN tracks, hold ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) DEGREE REQUIREMENTS certification. Requirements for meeting expectations of all -For the Pediatric tracks, hold PALS degrees offered at TTUHSC School of Nursing (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) are specified in the School of Nursing Catalog in certification. effect at the time of admission to the program. -For the Nurse Midwifery track hold a record of successful completion of a NRP GRADUATION / DIPLOMA (Neonatal Resuscitation Program). Intent to Graduate• All graduate students in the APRN Program Students planning to graduate MUST complete (nurse practitioner and nurse midwifery the Intent to Graduate available on the TTUHSC tracks) must provide continued evidence Student Services website at http://www.ttuhsc. of certification while enrolled. Failure to edu/studentservices/default.aspx. maintain evidence of current certification will result in suspension of clinical activities. Students should create a “Diploma” address in• Nurse Midwifery students will be required WebRaider to ensure the diploma will be mailed to secure and present proof of their own to the proper address. The TTUHSC Student purchased student malpractice insurance prior Services office uses the diploma address to mail to commencing nurse midwifery-specific the diploma only if the diploma is not picked up clinical courses (NURS 5304, 5470, 5571, and at commencement or at the request of the student. 6620). The average cost for a yearly rate is around $500 and students may select from a carrier of their choice.TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 23
Students must be enrolled at Texas Tech • 3.50 to 3.69 are graduated Cum Laude.University Health Sciences Center and registered Appropriate designation of the honor is madein the School of Nursing for a minimum of one on the diploma. Only students completing ancredit hour in the term of graduation. undergraduate degree can receive an honor designation.Graduation under a Particular CatalogA student is expected to complete the degree Graduate Departmentrequirements set forth in the School of Nursing MSN Leadership Program, MSN APRN ProgramCatalog in effect at the time the student enters (Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Midwifery Tracks)the chosen degree or area of study. Only with the and DNP Programspecific approval of the appropriate Department Graduate students are required to achieve atChair may a different Catalog be selected. least a 3.0 overall accumulative GPA to graduateStudents, in all cases, are prohibited from (See School of Nursing Catalog). Graduationcompleting the requirements set forth in a Catalog guidelines, deadlines, and forms are posted onmore than seven years old. The School of Nursing the TTUHSC Student Services webpage http://Catalog is published at least biennially and its www.ttuhsc.edu/studentservices/default.aspx.provisions are applicable during the following Requirements and deadlines must be met toacademic year, September 1 through August 31. be eligible to graduate. Failure to follow theHowever, a student registering for the first time deadlines listed in this website will delayat TTUHSC during a summer semester is subject graduation until the following semester.to the degree requirements set forth in the Schoolof Nursing Catalog effective for the fall semester Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner, Nurseimmediately following the first summer semester Midwifery, Nursing Education and Nursingof enrollment. Other conditions of graduation Informatics Certificates of Completion andand the curriculum program are contained in the GraduationSchool of Nursing Catalog posted on the nursing Post-Master’s Graduate students are required towebsite at http://www.ttuhsc.edu/son/catalog. achieve at least a 3.0 overall accumulative GPA toaspx. complete the Post-Master’s Certificate (see School of Nursing Catalog). Certificates are awarded atUndergraduate Departments the end of the fall, spring, and summer semestersTraditional BSN Undergraduate Department upon meeting certificate requirements (see School(BSN Program) and Non-Traditional of Nursing Catalog). Students completing theUndergraduate Department (RN to BSN, certificate requirements at the end of the springAccelerated BSN Program: Second Degree BSN semester may take part in the Spring School ofand Veteran to BSN) Nursing Commencement ceremony. StudentsUndergraduate students are required to achieve completing the certificate requirements at theat least a 2.0 overall cumulative GPA to graduate end of the fall semester and previous summerand complete appropriate graduation paperwork semester may take part in the Fall School ofelectronically at http://www.ttuhsc.edu/ Nursing Commencement ceremony.studentservices/default.aspx. Post-Master’s Certificate guidelines, deadlines,Graduation with Honors and forms are posted on the TTUHSC StudentUndergraduate students completing the academic Services web pages http://www.ttuhsc.edu/work with a cumulative grade point average of: studentservices/default.aspx. Requirements and• 3.90 to 4.00 are graduated Summa Cum Laude deadlines must be met to be eligible to complete• 3.70 to 3.89 are graduated Magna Cum Laude the Post-Master’s certificate. Failure to follow24 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
the deadlines listed in this website will delay Keep personal immunization records in a safein processing the Post-Master’s certificate and place; immunization records are required for allBoard of Nursing forms. healthcare workers employed in the healthcare industry. All copies of Personal ImmunizationSchool of Nursing Commencement Ceremonies Records provided to the School of NursingGraduation exercises are held at the end of the become the property of the School of Nursing.spring and fall semesters. Students awarded Never supply the School of Nursing with originaldiplomas at the end of the spring semester documents. There may be a fee charged to receiveare eligible to participate in the Spring a copy of the immunization records from SchoolCommencement ceremony. Students awarded of Nursing files. For additional information,diplomas the previous summer semester or at the refer to http://www.ttuhsc.edu/studentservices/end of the fall semester are eligible to participate studenthealth.aspx.in the Fall Commencement ceremony.DiplomaDiplomas for undergraduate and graduateprograms are issued per semester as follows:• Spring graduates: Diploma is issued in May• Summer graduates: Diploma is issued in August• Fall graduates: Diploma is issued in JanuaryIMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTSStudents are expected to maintain a generalstate of good health. Failure to maintaindocumentation of the following immunizationrequirements in the appropriate departmentaloffice can result in exclusion from clinical practiceand a hold being placed on school records. Theimmunization information in the following tablemust be on file for a complete immunizationrecord while enrolled in the School of Nursing.Other specialty-related immunizations or testingmay be recommended to a student or may berequired by a clinical agency. All students areexpected to personally maintain immunizationrequirements; this maintenance should bedocumented in the appropriate departmentaloffice for every semester the student is enrolled atTTUHSC – NO notification will be sent.Students should contact the ManagingDirector in the Office of Institutional Health/TTUHSC Infection Control for the most up-to-date information on obtaining immunizations bycalling (806) 743-3019.TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 25
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTSVaccine When RequiredHepatitis B series (Hep B) At the beginning of the initial semester of enrollment to be completed within 6Measles, Mumps, Rubella months, or a titer showing immunity is required.vaccine/titer (MMR) At the beginning of the initial semester of enrollment, with doses of vaccine or titers showing immunity are required. (Note: Women who need MMR mustMeningococcal (MCV) make an appointment with a health professional to verify pregnancy statusTuberculosis (TB) before receiving MMR.) At the beginning of the initial semester of enrollment. Adults 22 years of age orTetanus/Diphtheria (Td) younger within the last five years.Tetanus, Diphtheria and At the beginning of the initial semester of enrollment and annually thereafter.Acellular Pertussins (Tdap) If you have not had a TB test within the last 12 months you must have a 2 stepInfluenza (Flu) skin test with a minimum of 7 days between the 2 readings.Varicella (Chicken Pox) At the beginning of the initial semester of enrollment. (Booster required every 10 years.) At the beginning of the initial semester of enrollment. (Adult - one time dose) Required during flu season annually. At the beginning of the initial semester of enrollment – two (2) doses of vaccine or titer showing immunity are required. (TTUHSC does not accept history of the disease)LIABILITY INSURANCE Texas RN License or Compact Multistate License.All students (licensed and non-licensed) RN-BSN undergraduate students and DNPenrolled in the School of Nursing are required graduate students must have current licensure asto carry student liability insurance. The School a registered nurse in the United States. Studentsof Nursing provides a blanket policy covering must maintain current licensure in good standingstudents in any student-related clinical activity. throughout enrollment in the School of Nursing.The policy does not cover students in work- The Department Chair/Associate Dean must berelated activities (students employed in clinical notified immediately if the status of licensuresettings not associated with the School of Nursing changes for any reason. Students residing incurriculum). neighboring states must also verify Texas RN• A fee will be automatically added to the licensure or Compact Multistate license if the state they reside in is a participating compact state. student’s tuition to pay for the policy Students must provide current documentation of• The student liability insurance blanket policy Compact Multistate License. LICENSURE APPLICATIONS is for liability purposes only and is NOT a The Department Chair/Associate Dean for the general health insurance policy. Traditional BSN Undergraduate Department or• Students enrolled in the Nurse Midwifery and the Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department Post-Master’s Certificate Nurse Midwifery will assist currently enrolled pre-licensure tracks are required to carry additional students with the applicable Board of Nursing individual (self-purchased) liability insurance. application process. For the Traditional BSNLICENSURE - RNsMSN graduate students are required to have a26 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
Undergraduate Department (BSN Program), the information:Traditional BSN Undergraduate Department • Name (in Roman characters)Chair makes arrangements with faculty to • Photographmeet with graduating students to discuss the • Signatureprocedures to register for the NCLEX-RNexamination and to complete the licensure Temporary identification (examples includeapplication forms. For Accelerated BSN Program: limited term IDs and any ID reading “temp” orSecond Degree BSN and Veteran to BSN students, “temporary”) is only acceptable if it meets theinformation is posted electronically. Failure to required elements stated above.meet the Texas BON deadlines or deadlinesfrom licensing boards in other states will delay PERSONAL APPEARANCE / UNIFORMthe licensure process. For further information (Clinical Setting and Simulation Center)concerning eligibility for licensure, refer to Texas Nursing students are expected to maintain aStatutes Regulating the Practice of Professional professional image at all times while in the clinicalNursing (see the NCLEX-RN Examination setting. The professional uniform of the School ofEligibility section of this Student Handbook) or Nursing is expected to be worn only for clinicallycontact the appropriate Department Chair. related activities.Students applying for licensure in other statesare responsible for contacting the applicableBoard of Nursing for an application packet at thebeginning of the semester of graduation. Oncethe packet is received, students should make anappointment with the appropriate DepartmentChair/Associate Dean to review and process therequired documents.NCLEX-RN IDENTIFICATIONREQUIREMENTSNCSBN requires for admission to Pearson VUEtest centers only the following acceptable forms ofidentification for domestic test centers:• Passport books and cards• Driver’s license• Provincial/Territorial or state identification card• Permanent residence card• Military identification cardThe only acceptable forms of identification forinternational test centers are:• Passport books and cardsAll forms of identification listed above mustbe valid (nonexpired), government-issuedidentification containing the followingTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 27
Traditional BSN Undergraduate Program Hospital Clinical Setting Uniform GuidelinesEquipment: Stethoscope, watch, penlight, Skyscape software/device, scissors, pen, and pad.Uniform: The uniform shall be the official Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing uniform (red scrub top and pants) with an embroidered logo affixed to left chest. The uniform shall be clean and without needed repair.Shoes: The shoes shall fit securely and be primarily white or black impenetrable material.Lab Coats: White, clean and pressed with an embroidered logo affixed to left chest.Scrub Jacket Red or Black scrub jackets with an embroidered logo affixed to left chest may(optional): be worn during clinical.Name Tag and Badge: These items must be worn with the uniform or the lab jacket in all clinical settings.Hair: The student’s hair must be clean, neat, and managed in such a way as to not require the student to touch hair during clinical. A student with long hair must secure hair behind his or her head; hair must be off the shoulders. Long hair is defined as any hair length that obstructs peripheral vision when the student bends over at waist level or that may dangle onto a patient or treatment surface.Makeup: Wear in moderation. No bright lipsticks, blush, or eye shadow.Nails: Nails must be clean and well groomed. Artificial nails are not acceptable. Nails need to be short. Polish, if worn, must be natural/ neutral color.Perfume/After Shave: Perfume/After Shave: Avoid wearing perfume, cologne, or aftershave. Clients may not be able to tolerate your favorite scent.Piercing/Tattoo: Students may have one stud earring in each ear lobe. All other piercing must be removed for the clinical setting. Tattoos must be covered or not visible during clinical.Additional: Additional requirements based on clinical agency policy will be communicated by the Clinical Director.Hospital Clinical Setting Uniform Guidelines apply in non-hospital settings and hospital preparationtime except as stated in the following Non-Hospital Clinical Settings and Non-Direct Care HospitalSetting chart.28 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
Equipment: Accelerated BSN Program: Second Degree BSN and Veteran to BSN Hospital Clinical Setting Uniform Guidelines Stethoscope, watch, penlight, Skyscape software/device, scissors, pen, and padUniform: The uniform shall be the official Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing uniform (red scrub top and black scrub pants) withShoes: patch(s) permanently affixed to approved location(s) on the uniform. SeeLab Coat: respective orientation materials for information on patches and placement.Name Tag and Badge: The uniform shall be clean and without needed repair.Hair: The shoes shall fit securely and be primarily white or black impenetrable material.Makeup: The lab coat shall be the official Texas Tech University Health Sciences CenterNails: School of Nursing jacket (white) with patch permanently affixed to left chestPerfume/After Shave: and should be clean.Piercing/Tattoo: These items must be worn with the uniform or the lab jacket in all clinicalAdditional: settings. The student’s hair must be clean, neat, and managed in such a way as to not require the student to touch hair during clinical. A student with long hair must secure hair behind his or her head; hair must be off the shoulders. Long hair is defined as any hair length that obstructs peripheral vision when the student bends over at waist level or that may dangle onto a patient or treatment surface. Wear in moderation. No bright lipsticks, blush, or eye shadow. Nails must be clean and well groomed. Artificial nails are not acceptable. Nails need to be short. Polish, if worn, must be a natural/neutral color. Perfume/After Shave: Avoid wearing perfume, cologne, or aftershave. Clients may not be able to tolerate your favorite scent. Students may have one stud earring in each ear lobe. All other piercing must be removed for the clinical setting. Tattoos must be covered or not visible during clinical. Additional requirements based on clinical agency policy will be communicated by Clinical Site Coordinators.Hospital Clinical Setting Uniform Guidelines apply in non-hospital settings and hospital preparationtime except as stated in the following Non-Hospital Clinical Settings and Non-Direct Care HospitalSetting chart. TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 29
Non-Hospital Clinical Settings and Non-Direct Care Hospital Setting Clothing:Clothing: Dress reflective of a professional image (Neat and clean street clothing. No denim material, blue jeans, shorts of any kind, miniskirts, bare chests, or midriffs are allowed.)Lab Coats: Worn with name tag and ID badge (Street clothes extend below lab coats.)Shoes: Dress shoes or boots that are neat and polished.Exceptions to the dress code may be made in individual courses if stated in the course syllabus or statedby the individual faculty member. For safety purposes, clinical facilities’ policies regarding uniforms mayrequire additional conformance.PERSONAL APPEARANCE 4. Scrubs: Scrubs are appropriate for clinicalClassroom Attire and lab setting, but are not appropriate forStudents are representatives of the TTUHSC everyday use. Exceptions will be made forSchool of Nursing and the nursing profession. students who attend class before or after workTherefore, classroom attire is expected to and wear their employer’s required scrubs.project an image of professionalism. Minimalexpectations are outlined below. 5. Shoes: Shoes must be clean and in good condition. Sandals are acceptable.1. Shirts: Revealing clothing (e.g., spaghetti strap tops, halter tops, midriffs, work-out 6. Hair: Hair should be clean and well groomed. tops, muscle shirts, sheer or see-thru) is not Hair may not be dyed any unnatural hair permitted and proper undergarments shall colors. Facial hair is to be well groomed. be worn and not visible. Shoulders should remain covered at all times. T-shirts with 7. Nails: Nails must be neatly manicured (not inappropriate logos (advertisement of alcohol, chipped) and kept at a length that will not cigarettes, drugs and risqué pictures/slogans) interfere with the duties of a nurse. are not permitted. 8. Head Gear: Hats, caps, and other head gear2. Skirts/Shorts/Dresses: Skirt and shorts length are not permitted in the classroom. Only shall be of an appropriate length and may not headgear worn for religious purposes and be tight fitting. Miniskirts and short-shorts approved in advance by the Office of Student are not permitted. Split skirts are permitted, Affairs is permissible. Bluetooth headsets for provided they are not tight fitting and fall phones should not be worn in the classroom within the above guidelines. setting.3. Pants/Slacks: Pants shall be properly fitting. Deviations from the classroom attire standards Pants must be worn properly at the hips. may be permitted for special occasions or Jeans with holes exposing the skin are designated “casual Friday” programs. not permitted. Pajama bottoms or other Students who deviate from these standards may garments that could be mistaken as casual receive a verbal warning and be requested to sleep attire are not permitted. Athletic attire return home to change into appropriate classroom with appropriate length of shirt is acceptable. attire. Undergarments should not be exposed in any way.30 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES Texas residents without regard to the length ofCertain courses in the curriculum have pre and/ time the student has resided in Texas. For moreor co-requisites, which must be met. The pre- information, please contact the School of Nursingrequisite/co-requisite courses are designated in scholarship office at [email protected] School of Nursing Catalog.SCHOLARSHIPS Permian Basin StudentsApplications for all scholarships are available Permian Basin Students can only applyeither on the TTUHSC School of Nursing Current for Permian Basin scholarships. For moreStudent Resources under Financial Information information for this process, please follow the linkHeading or on the Scholarships & Scholarship for Permian Basin Students at http://www.ttuhsc.Information page http://www.ttuhsc.edu/son/ edu/son/scholarships/.scholarships. The Scholarships & ScholarshipInformation page also contains announcements Permian Basin Scholarship Receptionof all available scholarships and deadlines for A yearly Scholarship Reception by the Schoolacceptance. Students are also provided with of Nursing is held during the Spring Semester.information regarding scholarships at both Students in attendance at the Permian BasinVirtual and On-campus new student orientation. Campus have the opportunity to receive aStudents are encouraged to complete a new limited number of scholarships given during theapplication when financial or other circumstances reception.change.Before applying for scholarships, students MUST SCHOOL SCHEDULE OF CLASSES /have a completed Free Application for Federal ACADEMIC CALENDARStudent Aid (FAFSA) http://www.fafsa.gov on file The School of Nursing’s academic calendar iswith the TTUHSC Financial Aid Office. posted on the School of Nursing website at http://School of Nursing scholarships are competitive nursing.ttuhsc.edu/calendars/ and the School ofscholarships requiring students to compete with Nursing schedules of classes are posted at http://other students, including Texas residents, and the nursing.ttuhsc.edu/schedules. The TTUHSCscholarships are awarded by the School of Nursing School of Nursing reserves the right to modifyscholarship committee. Eligible scholarship schedule of classes at any time during theapplications are distributed to the Department academic year.Chairs for review with recommendationsforwarded to the School of Nursing ScholarshipCommittee. Distance students may apply forscholarships listed for the Lubbock campus.Eligibility for the scholarship is based uponthe criteria established by each donor and theTTUHSC School of Nursing.According to the Texas Education Code, § 54.213:a student with a competitive scholarship of atleast $1,000 for the academic year or summer thestudent is enrolled and who is a non-resident isentitled to pay the tuition and fees required ofTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 31
ACADEMIC POLICIESThe School of Nursing expects students, faculty, advisement when necessary to best meet studentand administration to adhere to TTUHSC needs. Questions regarding registration, adding/institutional and School of Nursing policies and dropping a course, and withdrawing from theprocedures in order to enhance learning and School of Nursing should be directed to thepromote a professional environment conducive Student Affairs Coordinator, who will workto meeting the institutional and school mission, closely with the Department Chair to assistvision, and values. The following sections students.detail policies to support students’ academicachievement in the School of Nursing. Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department RN to BSN ProgramACADEMIC ADVISEMENT Academic advisement for students enrolledAn advisor is assigned to each student upon in the RN to BSN Program is directed by theadmission to provide information about the Department Chair. The Enrolled Studentacademic program and to assist in making Management Student Affairs Coordinator willinformed decisions. The advisor should also be assist with academic advisement. The studentconsulted during pre-registration, for adding/ signs and receives a copy of the degree plan atdropping a course, and withdrawing from the orientation and is expected to follow the signedSchool of Nursing. However, the student is degree plan when registering for courses. Theultimately responsible for seeking adequate Student Affairs Coordinator, under the directionacademic advice, meeting degree requirements, of the Associate Academic Dean for Educationand enrolling in appropriate courses to ensure Support Services and Student Affairs and inorderly and timely progress toward the degree or collaboration with the Department Chair,certificate. assists students with academic planning, staying informed of curriculum changes, and facilitatingTraditional BSN Undergraduate Department problem-solving related to progression throughTraditional BSN Program the degree plan. Faculty may be consultedAcademic advisement for students enrolled regarding academic advisement when necessaryin the Traditional BSN program is directed by to best meet student needs. Questions regardingthe Department Chair. The Enrolled Student registration, adding/dropping a course, andManagement Student Affairs Coordinator will withdrawing from the School of Nursing shouldassist with academic advisement. The student be directed to the Student Affairs Coordinator,signs and receives a copy of the degree plan who will work closely with the Department Chairat orientation and is expected to follow the to assist students.signed degree plan when registering for courses.The Student Affairs Coordinator, under the Accelerated BSN Program: Second Degree BSNdirection of the Associate Academic Dean for and Veteran to BSNEducation Support Services and Student Affairs, Academic advisement for students enrolled inand in collaboration in collaboration with the the Second Degree BSN track is directed byDepartment Chair, assists students with academic the Department Chair. The Enrolled Studentplanning, staying informed of curriculum Management Student Affairs Coordinator willchanges, and facilitating problem-solving related assist with academic advisement. The studentto progression through the degree plan. Program signs and receives a copy of the degree plan atDirectors may be consulted regarding academic orientation and is expected to follow the signed32 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
degree plan when registering for courses. The MSN APRN (Nurse Practitioner and NurseStudent Affairs Coordinator, under the direction Midwifery Tracks)of the Associate Academic Dean for Education Academic advisement for students enrolled inSupport Services and Student Affairs, and in the MSN APRN tracks is directed by specifiedcollaboration with the Department Chair/ Program Directors. The Graduate EnrolledAssociate Dean, assists students with academic Student Management Student Affairs Coordinatorplanning, staying informed of curriculum will assist with academic advisement. Thechanges, and facilitating problem-solving student receives the degree plan at orientationrelated to progression through the degree plan. and is expected to follow the degree plan whenFaculty may be consulted regarding academic registering for courses. The Graduate Studentadvisement when necessary to best meet student Affairs Coordinator, under the direction of theneeds. Questions regarding registration, adding/ Associate Academic Dean for Education Supportdropping a course, and withdrawing from the Services and Student Affairs and in collaborationSchool of Nursing should be directed to the with the Department Chair and/or ProgramStudent Affairs Coordinator, who will work Director, assists students with academic planning,closely with the Department Chair/Associate staying informed of curriculum changes, andDean to assist students. facilitating problem-solving related to progression through the degree plan. Graduate faculty areGraduate Department consulted regarding academic advisement whenMSN Leadership Program and DNP Program necessary to best meet student needs. AnyAcademic advisement for students enrolled in the question the student has about registration,MSN Leadership Program or the DNP Program adding/dropping a course, and withdrawing fromis directed by specified Program Directors or the School of Nursing should be directed to theDepartment Chair. The Graduate Enrolled Graduate Student Affairs Coordinator, who willStudent Management Student Affairs Coordinator work closely with the Program Directors andwill assist with academic advisement. The Department Chair for the APRN Program tostudent receives the degree plan at orientation assist students.and is expected to follow the degree plan whenregistering for courses. The Graduate Student ACADEMIC MISCONDUCTAffairs Coordinator, under the direction of the “Academic misconduct” involves any activityAssociate Academic Dean for Education Support that tends to compromise the academic integrityServices and Student Affairs and in collaboration of the University, or subvert the educationalwith the Department Chair and/or Program process, including, but not limited to, cheating,Director, assists students with academic planning, plagiarism, falsifying academic records,staying informed of curriculum changes, and misrepresenting facts, and any act designed tofacilitating problem-solving related to progression give unfair academic advantage to the student, orthrough the degree plan. Graduate faculty are the attempt to commit such an act. Refer to theconsulted regarding academic advisement when TTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook Part II,necessary to best meet student needs. Questions D Misconduct, (19) Academic Misconduct.regarding registration, adding/dropping a course,and withdrawing from the School of Nursing Filing a Complaintshould be directed to the Graduate Student Affairs Any member of the University community mayCoordinator, who will work closely with the file a complaint(s) against a student(s) or a studentDepartment Chair to assist students. organization(s) for violation(s) of the TTUHSC Student Handbook Code of Professional and Academic Conduct.TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 33
• Prior to filing a formal complaint decision in writing within five (5) business by complainant (Faculty, Student, days. Administrator), a preliminary investigation/ • If the grade issued was in error, discussion with the Department Chair should (miscalculation of grade occurred) then the be conducted to determine if there is a basis faculty corrects the grade and shall notify the for the complaint. Refer to the TTUHSC student of the grade change within five (5) Student Handbook Code of Professional and business days. Academic Conduct Part II, F Disciplinary If a student receives a grade of less than 80 Procedures, (3) Filing Complaint. (B) for a written assignment, the student may request another faculty member to conduct a• If there is a basis for the complaint, refer to the second, independent, blinded evaluation of the TTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook. assignment. Students seeking a second evaluation of a failing written assignment must make the• The School of Nursing Student Conduct request to the course facilitator within five (5) Administrator is the Associate Academic days of the graded assignment being returned Dean for Education Support Services and to the student. After the second faculty member Student Affairs. For questions, contact the grades the assignment, the course facilitator and Office of Admissions and Student Affairs at the two evaluators will review and discuss the (806) 743-2025. scores and reconcile the assignment grade. If the two faculty graders cannot reach a consensusTimeline grade, the average of the two scores will be used asThe timeline for filing a complaint related the assignment grade.to academic misconduct is detailed in the Final Grade AppealTTUHSC Student Handbook Code of Professional It is the policy of the Texas Tech University Healthand Academic Conduct. A complaint shall be Sciences Center School of Nursing to affirmsubmitted no later than twenty (20) business the right of its students to a prompt and fairdays from the date of the event. Complaints filed resolution of a complaint or grievance. Thus, thismore than twenty (20) business days after the policy recognizes that:event shall include justification for the delay and • Every student has a right to receive a gradethe Student Conduct Administrator will accept assigned based on a fair and unprejudicedcomplaints on a “case by case” basis. Within evaluation of the student’s performancethe School of Nursing, timelines for managing using a method that is neither arbitrary northe academic misconduct complaint may be capricious; and,altered at the Student Conduct Administrator’s • Faculty have the right to assign a gradediscretion when extenuating circumstances exist based on any method that is professionallyand are clearly documented and communicated to acceptable, submitted in writing to allindividuals involved with the complaint. students, and applied equally. The following procedure provides students with aACADEMIC GRADE CHALLENGES/APPEALS system by which to file an appeal of a final gradeIf a student believes that a grade on a particular they believe was based on arbitrary or capriciousassignment (not a final course grade) received is action by the faculty. Only the final course gradeincorrect, the student shall: as entered into the official TTUHSC system may• Discuss the grade with the faculty who be appealed. The burden of proof that such an assigned it.• If the grade is deemed correct, (no miscalculation of grade occurred) then the grade stands as issued. The faculty assigning the grade shall notify the student of the34 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
influence has affected a final grade rests with information such as email or mailing address.the student. • The decision on the academic substantivePrior to filing an official grade appeal, the student review by the appropriate Programmaticmust meet with the course faculty member to Associate Dean/Department Chair is final.review how the faculty arrived at the final grade. • All records related to the appeal are retainedIf after the meeting with the faculty the student by the office of the ADESSA for a period ofwishes to pursue filing a final grade appeal, the three (3) years.following procedures shall be followed. • The student may only appeal issues of procedural due process to the ADESSA.To appeal a grade, the student shall: Procedural Appeal Process• Student must file the Final Grade Appeal • The student may file an appeal on procedural Form (Attachment A), available online (http:// grounds following receipt of the final decision nursing.ttuhsc.edu/forms/), within three (3) on the appeal of the grade. A procedural business days, of the date the final grade is appeal should be filed with the ADESSA posted in Banner. The Final Grade Appeal within two (2) business days of the student Form is to be file with the Associate Academic receiving the Associate Dean/Department Dean for Education Support Services and Chair’s decision on the grade appeal. Students Student Affairs (ADESSA). All documents to are to file Request Form (Attachment B) support the appeal must accompany the Final available online (http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/ Grade Appeal Form. Documents received forms/). after the log-in date of the Final Grade Appeal • Upon review of all materials and meeting Form will not be accepted. with the student, Associate Dean/Department• The ADESSA will forward the appeal and Chair and faculty, the ADESSA shall render all supporting documents to the appropriate a decision on the procedural appeal with programmatic Associate Dean/Department three (3) business day from receipt of the Chair. Procedural Appeal.• The Associate Dean/Department Chair shall • The decision of the ADESSA will be sent to meet with the faculty and student separately the student via certified mail and/or electronic and review all materials pertinent to the grade correspondence to the student’s TTUHSC appeal. e-mail address. The decision of the ADESSA• After review of all materials, the Associate is final. Dean/Department Chair shall, within five • All records will be retained in the office of the (5) business days from receipt of the formal ADESSA for three (3) years. grade appeal, render a decision. The student ACADEMIC DISMISSAL / APPEALS shall be notified of the decision via certified It is the policy of the TTUHSC School of Nursing mail and/or electronic correspondence to the to dismiss students who have failed to maintain student’s TTUHSC email address. A copy of minimum academic standards as outlined below: the decision is forwarded to the ADESSSA. Procedure for Dismissal The grade appeal decision is deemed received • A student shall be recommended for dismissal by the student when properly mailed and if the Degree Program Council determines addressed to the official address on file with that the student has: the university or received electronically by the student at his/her TTUHSC email address. -Not performed satisfactorily in academic It is the student’s responsibility to keep the pursuits; and/or university advised of any change in contactTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 35
-Has been deemed unsafe and/or is a risk of such statement in accordance with effective to patient care; and/or management of time. -Has been deemed by the applicable • The student has no right to be accompanied Program Council, for just reason, unfit to by a representative at the hearing. Both continue the study of nursing. the Academic Dismissal Appeals Council• The recommendation will be forwarded to the and student may call witnesses relevant to Dean of the school. resolution of the appeal. Should information• Upon receipt of the recommendation of or witnesses be either repetitious or not the applicable Program Council, the Dean relevant, the Academic Dismissal Appeals may accept, reject, and/or modify said Council shall take action to expedite the recommendation. proceedings. At the conclusion of the hearing,• Within 10 business days from receipt of the Academic Dismissal Appeals Council shall recommendations, official notification from forward its recommendation to the Dean and the Dean regarding his/her decision will be the ADESSA within three (3) business days. forwarded to the student via certified mail • Unless suspended for some justifiable reason and/or email. pursuant to the TTUHSC Institutional StudentAppeals Procedure for Academic Dismissal Handbook and/or School of Nursing Student• A student receiving a letter of dismissal may Handbook, the student shall remain on the appeal the dismissal within five (5) business class roll and may pursue appropriate didactic days of date of letter by submitting to the course work until the appeal is resolved. Dean through the Associate Academic Dean • The decision of the Dean is final. The student, for Education Support Services and Student the Chair of the applicable Program Council, Affairs (ADESSA) a written notice of appeal. the applicable Department Chair and the• The ADESSA shall appoint an Academic ADESSA will be notified in writing by the Dismissal Appeals Council upon the Dean within five (5) business days from recommendation by the Dean, comprised receipt of the Academic Dismissal Appeals of three (3) members of the faculty to hear Council decision. The letter to the student and determine the appeal. The applicable will be mailed certified mail and/or email. Department Chair and the Chair of the • All notices required to be given shall be appropriate Program Council (or designee) deemed received by the student upon mailing will serve as ex officio members of the Council certified mail to the address on record with and will not participate or be present at the school. deliberations. Appeals Procedure for Non-Dismissal Action(s)• The Academic Dismissal Appeals Council will • The appeal procedure for non-dismissal be convened by the ADESSA within ten (10) action(s) shall be the same as the Academic business days from the date of the receipt of Dismissal Appeal process. the written notice of appeal. The student shall For more information, contact the Assistant be notified via certified mail and/or email of Academic Dean of Student Affairs, (806) 743- the date of the appeal’s hearing. 1732.• The burden of proof lies with the student. ADDING A COURSE The student may present a written statement Students are able to add a course or courses to the Academic Dismissal Appeals Council prior to the first day of class and should review relative to the appeal at the time of the the School of Nursing Academic Calendar for hearing. The Academic Dismissal Appeals Council may limit the length and presentation36 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
important deadlines (http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/ Part II.A.4.calendars/) related to adding a course or courses.Students register for course(s) via the WebRaider COURSE LOADSPortal at https://webraider.ttuhsc.edu. Traditional BSN Undergraduate DepartmentTo add a course to an existing schedule: Traditional BSN Program• Contact the applicable Student Affairs Undergraduate enrollment in 12 or more credit hours per semester is considered a full-time Coordinator for approval and changes to the student. The number of semester credit hours a area of study plan. student may carry (course load) is regulated by• After the semester begins, students are able to the Department Chair. Students are expected add course(s) up to the 12th class day for fall, to move through the program continuously. spring, and full summer semesters and 4th Part-time status will not be allowed except in class day for summer semesters (summer 1 extenuating circumstances. In determining course and/or summer 2). Late registration fees may load, the Department Chair takes into account the apply. quality of prior scholastic work performed and the• When adding course(s) after the semester’s types of courses involved. Permission is needed to due date, contact the Student Business enroll in more than 20 semester credit hours. Services office at (806) 743-7867 to make payment. Payment must be made within two Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department business days. RN to BSN Program Semester Credit Hours and Course Loads -Additional payment and due date The number of semester credit hours a student information can be found at the Student may carry (course load) is regulated by the Business Services web site http://www. Department Chair, taking into account the quality fiscal.ttuhsc.edu/busserv/bursar/. of prior scholastic work performed and the types of courses involved. Permission is needed toCODE OF ETHICS FOR NURSES enroll in more than 18 semester credit hours.Students are expected to function within the Refer to example course loads in the sampleframework of the American Nurses Association degree plans for the RN to BSN student.(ANA) Code for Nurses (2015). Students maypurchase the Code for Nurses by contacting RN to BSN Transferring Between Course Sectionsthe American Nurses Association Publishing Students are assigned to a section of a courseCompany or it can be purchased or downloaded based on availability of openings within eachhere. section. Students seeking to transfer to another section of a given course must make a requestCODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT in writing to the RN to BSN Program Director(“STUDENT CODE”) prior to the end of the third class day of theAll students of the School of Nursing are expected semester. The RN to BSN Program Director willto adhere to the TTUHSC Code of Professional determine if a transfer is feasible based on theConduct outlined in the TTUHSC Institutional availability of space in an alternate course section.Student Handbook. These guiding rules and Should a transfer be determined to be feasible,regulations are present to foster a sense of the appropriate Student Affairs Coordinator willcommunity and respect among all members notify the Registrar, School of Nursing Educationof the university community. It states, “each Technology, and the affected faculty by email bystudent is responsible for his/her own integrity, the end of the business day the transfer is made.and is likewise responsible for reporting possibleviolations of this Student Code by other students.”TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 37
Accelerated Second Degree BSN determining course load, the Department ChairSemester Credit Hours and Course Loads and/or Program Director takes into account theThe Second Degree students are required to quality of prior scholastic work performed andcomplete 55 hours of non-nursing courses and 61 the types of courses involved.hours of nursing courses. The degree plan for theSecond Degree track requires students to enroll in COURSE SYLLABI18 to 23 hours per semester. Permission is needed Course Syllabi for each School of Nursing courseto enroll in more or less semester credit hours. are obtained from Sakai. Course requirements and student expectations are stated in each courseAccelerated Veteran to BSN syllabus. Obtaining the course syllabi prior to theSemester Credit Hours and Course Loads The first day of class is highly recommended. CourseVBSN Degree students are required to complete facilitators are responsible for development,59 hours of non-nursing courses and 61 hours of typing and posting of course syllabi and coursenursing courses. The degree plan for the VBSN modules. Course syllabi and schedules should beDegree track requires students to enroll in 18 to posted and available for students one week before23 hours per semester. Permission is needed to classes begin.enroll in more or less semester credit hours. DEAN’S HONOR LIST / PRESIDENT’S LISTGraduate Department Undergraduate ProgramsMSN Leadership Program and DNP Program Full-time undergraduate students who earn aGraduate enrollment in 9 or more credit hours GPA of 4.0 during a semester are eligible for thein the fall and spring semesters and 6 credit President’s List. Full-time students who earn a 3.5-hours in the full summer session is considered 3.99 GPA are eligible for the Dean’s List, based onfull-time enrollment. Fewer than 9 credit hours information supplied from the Registrar’s Office.in the fall and spring semesters and fewer than 6credit hours in the summer session is considered DROPPING A COURSEpart-time enrollment. The number of semester • Students are able to drop course(s) up to thecredit hours a student may carry (course load) isregulated by the Department Chair for Leadership 12th class day for fall, spring and full summerPrograms. In determining course load, the semesters and 4th class day for summerDepartment Chair takes into account the quality semesters (summer 1 and/or summer 2) toof prior scholastic work performed and the types receive a full refund. See School of Nursingof courses involved. Academic Calendar for deadlines.MSN APRN Program (Nurse Practitioner and To drop a course:Nurse Midwifery Tracks • Contact course facilitator and/or courseGraduate enrollment in 9 or more credit hoursin the fall and spring semesters and 6 credit faculty.hours in the full summer session is considered • Contact the Academic Advisor for approvalfull-time enrollment. Fewer than 9 credit hoursin the fall and spring semesters and fewer than 6 and changes to area of study plan.credit hours in the summer session is considered • Drop course(s) via the WebRaider Portal atpart-time enrollment. The number of semestercredit hours a student may carry (course load) https://webraider.ttuhsc.edu.is regulated by the Department Chair and/or -Dropping a course may delay progressionProgram Director for the APRN Program. In through the curriculum. Students dropping a course to the point of “zero hours” of enrollment are considered to be withdrawing from the School of Nursing (see Withdrawal School of Nursing).38 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
When dropping to zero hours, a student’s Accelerated BSN Program: Second Degree BSN date of withdraw must be prior to the and Veteran to BSN first class day according to the semester’s The Early Alert Program provides resources and academic calendar in order to receive assistance to ensure success in earning the degree. a full refund. Thereafter, contact the The Department Chair requests all course faculty Student Business Service office at (806) submit names of students who may be in jeopardy 743-7867 for the appropriate refund of course failure at the midpoint of each course to schedule or review the Student Financial the Enrolled Student Management Student Information online at http://www.fiscal. Affairs Coordinator. The Enrolled Student ttuhsc.edu/busserv/bursar/. Management Student Affairs Coordinator sends• Undergraduate and graduate students may a letter to the student, encouraging the student to file a Leave of Absence (see Leave of Absence discuss available services with their course faculty. section of the Student Handbook). Services may include referral to the Retention• Review tuition and fees information at http:// Counselor for further assistance. Students www.fiscal.ttuhsc.edu/busserv/bursar/ or may also voluntarily access the services of the contact the TTUHSC Student Business Retention Counselor. Service office for more information at (806) 743-7867. EARLY ALERT GRADUATE STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMEARLY ALERT UNDERGRADUATESTUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Graduate Department MSN Leadership Program and DNP ProgramTraditional BSN Undergraduate Department The Early Alert Program provides resources andTraditional BSN Program assistance to students to ensure success in earningThe Early Alert Program provides resources and the degree. The Department Chair requests allassistance to ensure success in earning the degree. course faculty submit the names of studentsStudents referred to the Early Alert Program who may be in jeopardy of course failure to theby nursing faculty are required to contact their Graduate Program Coordinator. The Graduatecourse facilitators to discuss available services Program Coordinator develops letters from thewhich may include referral to the Retention faculty to each identified student notifying theCounselor for further assistance. Students student of the current status and encouragingmay also voluntarily access the services of the the student to discuss available services with theRetention Counselor. course faculty.Non-Traditional Undergraduate Department MSN APRN Program (Nurse Practitioner andRN to BSN Program Nurse Midwifery Tracks)The Early Alert Program provides resources and The Early Alert Program provides resources andassistance to ensure success in earning the degree. assistance to students to ensure success in earningThe Department Chair requests all course faculty the degree or certificate. The Department Chairto submit the name of a student who may be in requests all course faculty submit the namesjeopardy of course failure to the Enrolled Student of students who may be in jeopardy of courseManagement Student Affairs Coordinator. The failure to the Graduate Program Coordinator.Enrolled Student Management Student Affairs The Graduate Program Coordinator developsCoordinator will contact the student by email letters from the faculty to each identified studentencouraging them to discuss available services. notifying the student of the current status and encouraging the student to discuss availableTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 39
services with the course faculty. Regardless of scores earned on exams or additional assignments, the student must passENROLLMENT OUT OF SEQUENCE the clinical portion of the course in order toStudents in the graduate programs may request pass the course. An unsatisfactory or failingto take a course out-of-sequence. Approval by the clinical performance will result in a finalapplicable advisor, affected course facilitator(s), course grade of “F”, regardless of the didacticProgram Director and/or the Department Chair grade.must be obtained through the appropriate • The final course grade shall accurately reflectprogram office prior to enrollment. the grade earned according to course grading criteria. At the discretion of the faculty, gradesGRADING POLICIES may be rounded using classic roundingCourse Grade Policy rules. For example, a grade of 89.5 equals A,Undergraduate Courses whereas a grade of 89.4 equals B. Rounding of• In order to pass a course, the weighted average individual items should not be done. Rather, if rounding is done, it should be done for the of all proctored exams including the final must final course grade only. equal 75% or greater. Grade Reports• In courses where additional requirements are Final course grades can be obtained electronically a weighted portion of the grade, the additional through the WebRaider Portal at https:// course requirements will only be calculated as webraider.ttuhsc.edu. part of the final course grade if the average of all proctored exams including the final is 75% or greater.• For Second Degree, Veteran to BSN and Traditional BSN courses with a clinical component, the clinical portion is graded as follows: -A clinical evaluation instrument will be used to determine the grade. The student must earn a 75% or greater on the clinical evaluation instrument to pass the course.• Rounding of individual items should not be done. Rather, if rounding is done, it should be done for the final course grade only. The final course grade shall accurately reflect the grade earned according to course grading criteria. At the discretion of the faculty, grades may be rounded using classic rounding rules. For example, a grade of 89.5 equals A, whereas a grade of 89.4 equals B.Graduate Courses• In order to pass a course, the average of all exams including the final must equal 80% or greater.• For courses with a clinical component, the clinical portion is graded on a pass/fail basis.40 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
Grading Scale Accelerated BSN RN to BSN Program Graduate Programs:Traditional BSN Program: Second MSN and DNPProgram Degree BSN and Veteran to BSN 90 – 100 = A 90 – 100 = A90 – 100 = A 90 – 100 = A 80 – 89 = B 80 – 89 = B80 – 89 = B 80 – 89 = B 70 – 79 = C 70 – 79 = C75 – 79 = C 75 – 79 = C 60 – 69 = D 60 – 69 = D60 – 74 = D 60 – 74 = D < 60 = F < 60 = F< 60 = F < 60 = FGRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA)Type Formula (Use Grade Point Chart to calculate grade points)Overall Semester GPA Divide the total number of grade points acquired during the semester by total number of semester hours of all courses taken at TTUHSC, excludeCumulative GPA courses with a “W” grade. (“F” and “WF” courses must be counted in the calculations.) Divide the total number of grade points earned in all courses taken in the degree program at TTUHSC by total number of semester hours of all courses taken in the degree program at TTUHSC including hours of “F” and “WF”. Repeated courses are counted in the total.(Multiply the course credit hours by the assigned grade point, and then add all grade points to determine totalsemester grade points.)• An undergraduate student may repeat courses for credit with the prior approval of the program office and applicable Undergraduate Council. When a course is repeated, both grades are used in calculating the GPA and both grades appear on the transcript.• A graduate student may repeat courses for credit with the prior approval of the programmatic director and Graduate Program Council. When a course is repeated, both grades are used in calculating the GPA and both grades appear on the transcript.• Only courses taken and grades received at TTUHSC are used in calculating GPAs. TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 41
GRADE POINT CHARTGrade Assigned Grade Interpretations A Points B 4 Excellent, meeting degree requirements C 3 Good, meeting degree requirements D 2 Average, meeting undergraduate degree requirements; failing to meet graduate degree F 1 requirements P 0 Inferior, passing but not satisfying degree requirements PR 0 Failure, failing to meet degree requirements 0 Passing I In Progress: given only when the work in a course extends beyond the semester of term; 0 “PR” implies satisfactory performance and is used in thesis, dissertation; or DNP capstone W projects, a “CR” will be entered upon approved completion. A “PR” requires the student to 0 be registered in the course for the following semester and consequently the student will pay WF additional tuition for the course. “PR” is not given in lieu of an “F”. 0 Incomplete: given only when a student’s work is satisfactory in quality but, due to reasons CR beyond the student’s control, has not been completed. An incomplete is not given in lieu of R 0 an “F”. The faculty person assigning the grade will stipulate, in writing, at the time the grade X 0 is given, the conditions under which the “I” was given and may be removed. The student NP 0 is responsible for completing the required coursework and maintaining contact with the 0 instructor who gave the “I” to ensure the work is completed, graded, and the change to a letter grade is finalized.. The “I” will be replaced with an “F” after the incomplete has remained on record for a year without completion. Withdrawal from the institution will not change the conditions under which the “I” may be removed nor waive the replacement with an “F” after the “I” has remained on the record for a year without completion. Withdrawal: given for a course officially dropped during the first five weeks of a term and for a course officially dropped afterwards, provided the student’s work is passing at the time the course is dropped. Withdraw Failing: given after the first five weeks of a semester when the student’s work is not passing at the time the course is dropped or when the student is required by the Department Chair to drop the course for failure to attend the class. Considered as a failing grade (“F”) in calculating GPA. Credit Repeated course (TTUHSC SON does not honor grade replacement for required nursing courses.) No Grade Designated: given in those instances where one of the above grades is not report- ed by the faculty. The designation “X” is not used in determining grade point averages. Given if the student has not paid fees by the end of the semester. When delinquent fees are paid the Registrar’s Office will be notified and appropriate grade designations will be recorded. (Progression and/or graduation will not occur until “NP” is replaced by an appropriate grade.)NOTE: The School of Nursing does not honor grade replacement for required nursing courses.42 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
INDEPENDENT / INDIVIDUAL STUDY the responsibility of the student to obtain,COURSES complete and submit the form for approval.A student may choose to complete elective course • Upon completion of the form, the student is torequirements by enrolling in an independent/ submit the form to their Program Departmentindividual study course. For independent/ Chair for their review. Student must discussindividual study courses, the student and faculty the request for a leave with their Departmentmeet to define specific objectives and complete an Chair. The decision to allow a Leave ofIndependent/Individual Study Agreement Form. Absence rest with the Department Chair.Independent/Individual Study Agreement forms • If approved, the Office of the Registrar willare available online at http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/ be informed via a SON Memorandum of theforms/ and must be on file with the applicable Leave of Absence (Attachment C) to closeCoordinator in the Student Affairs office and the matriculation. The required signature on theRegistrar PRIOR to registering for the course. For Memorandum will be the dean and/or hismore information on Independent/Individual representative and the Department Chair. AStudy Courses, contact the appropriate academic copy of the Leave of Absence form along withadvisor. the Memorandum will be maintained in the student’s file.LEAVE OF ABSENCE (LOA) and RETURN • A Leave of Absence will only be granted forFROM LEAVE OF ABSENCE a period of two semesters. Students who doUndergraduate Students not re-enroll in the semester following theUnder certain circumstances, the TTUHSC declared expiration of the Leave of AbsenceSchool of Nursing may grant permission for an will be administratively dismissed from theundergraduate student to go on an official leave program.of absence. Such a leave may be granted only for • Failure to file a Leave of Absence Form andpersonal or family emergency situations, military failure to re-enroll will result in the studentobligations, or professional development and being administratively dismissed from theis granted at the discretion of the appropriate program must seek readmission.Department Chair. A Leave of Absence will Graduate Studentsonly be granted to an individual who is in good Graduate students may request a Leave of Absenceacademic standing at the time of the request for FOR UP TO ONE (1) YEAR. Students who do notthe leave. A Leave of Absence will only be allowed re-enroll in the semester following the declaredfor a period of two semesters. Failure to file a expiration of the Leave of Absence or for one yearLeave of Absence Form and failure to re-enroll must seek readmission. Failure to file a Leave ofwill result in the administrative dismissal from the Absence and failure to re-enroll will result in anprogram. institutionally initiated withdrawal. Failure to file a Return from Leave form will delay or preventLeave of Absence Procedure enrollment. Graduate students who do not enroll• The student upon initial consideration in the summer session do not need to file a Leave of Absence unless no courses are taken in the fall of a leave of absence must contact their or spring. Leave of Absence Request forms and appropriate Student Affairs Program Return From Leave forms are available online at Coordinator to discuss the process to request http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/forms. said leave. NCLEX RN EXAMINATION ELIGIBILITY• If student decides to request a leave of The Texas Board of Nursing (BON) has identified absence, the student may obtain the Leave of Absence form (Attachment A) at http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/forms/. It isTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 43
certain circumstances that may render a potential • Within the past five (5) years, have you beencandidate ineligible for licensure as a registered addicted to and/or treated for the use ofnurse in the State of Texas. The Petition for alcohol or any other drug? (You may indicateDeclaratory Order (http://www.bne.state. “NO” if you have completed and/or aretx.us/forms_declaratory_order.asp) is a formal in compliance with Texas Peer Assistancedisclosure to the BON of an outstanding eligibility Program for Nurses for substance abuse orissue and permits the BON to make decisions mental illness.)regarding a petitioner’s eligibility for licensureprior to entering or completing a nursing • Within the past five (5) years have you beenprogram. The Petition should be completed as diagnosed with, treated, or hospitalized forsoon as possible. The review process can take schizophrenia and/or psychotic disorders,a minimum of three (3) months but could be bipolar disorder, paranoid personalitylonger depending on the issue and volume of disorder, antisocial personality disorder, orapplications. Students who have obtained a borderline personality disorder?Declaratory Order Petition must notify andinform the Department Chair of the outcome of (You may only exclude Class C misdemeanorthe petition. If one of the following statements traffic violations.)applies to you, a Petition for Declaratory Order NOTE: Expunged and Sealed Offenses: Whilemust be completed. expunged or sealed offenses, arrests, tickets, or• For any criminal offense, including those citations need not be disclosed, the student has the responsibility to ensure the offense, arrest, pending appeal, have you: 1) been convicted of ticket, or citation has, in fact, been expunged or a misdemeanor; 2) been convicted of a felony; sealed. The recommendation is submission of 3) pled nolo contendere, no contest, or guilty; a copy of the court order expunging or sealing 4) received deferred adjudication; 5) been the record in question to the Texas Board of placed on community supervision or court- Nursing with your application. Failure to reveal an ordered probation, whether or not adjudicated offense, arrest, ticket, or citation that is not in fact guilty; 6) been sentenced to serve jail or prison expunged or sealed, will at a minimum, subject time; court-ordered confinement; 7) been your license to a disciplinary fine. Non-disclosure granted pre-trial diversion; 8) been arrested of relevant offenses raises questions related to or have any pending criminal charges; 9) been truthfulness and character. citied or charged with any violation of the law; NOTE: Orders of Non-Disclosure: Pursuant 10) been subject of a court-martial, Article to Texas Government Code § 552.142(b), if you 15 violation or received any form of military have criminal matters subject of an order of non- judgment/punishment/action? disclosure, you are not required to reveal those• Are you currently the target or subject criminal matters on the declaratory order form. of a grand jury or governmental agency However, a criminal matter that is the subject investigation? of an order of non-disclosure may become a• Has any licensing authority ever refused to character and fitness issue. Pursuant to other issue you a license or ever revoked, annulled, sections of the Texas Government Code Chapter canceled, accepted surrender of, suspended, 411, the Texas Board of Nursing is entitled to placed on probation, refused to renew a access criminal history record information that is license, certificate or multi-state privilege the subject of an order of non-disclosure, even if held by you now or previously, or ever you properly did not reveal that matter, the Board fined, censured, reprimanded or otherwise may require you to provide information about any disciplined you?44 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
conduct that raises issues of character. fair resolution of a complaint or grievance.Statues and Rules governing the Petition for The purpose of the Grievance ProcedureDeclaratory Order may be found in the Texas for Non-grade Complaints is to establish aOccupations Code §§ 301.257, 301.452-304.454 process for students to express and resolve(Nursing Practice Act), and in the Board Rules misunderstandings, concerns or grievances thatand Regulations relating to Nurse Education, they have with any university employee or fellowLicensure and Practice, 22 Texas Administrative student in a prompt, fair and equitable manner.Code (TAC) §§ 213.27-30 and Texas Actions that may be grieved under this procedureAdministrative Code (TAC) §§ 217.11-12. These include (but are not limited to unless otherwisestatutes and rules can be located on the BON’s excluded as defined below) unfair, inequitable orwebsite www.bon.state.tx.us. unprofessional treatment, improper application ofThe Nurse Practice Act (http://www.bon.texas. school policy or procedure or improper disclosuregov/nursinglaw/npa.html) was amended during of grades (i.e. FERPA violation). Although thethe 2005 Texas legislative session, adding Texas procedure encourages the resolution of theOccupations Code § 301.4535, to authorize the concern informally, a formal grievance is availableBoard of Nursing to deny or revoke licensure should the concern not be resolved informally.to an individual for certain criminal offenses. The formal grievance process constitutes a formalUnder the provision, the BON shall refuse or complaint being filed.shall withdraw a license if the person has been Actions that MAY NOT be grieved underconvicted of an identified offense or has noted this procedure include: 1) misconduct actionson his or her criminal record a plea of guilty or by another student in accordance with thenolo contendere. The Texas Board of Nursing may TTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook; 2)consider eligibility for licensure of an applicant, sexual harassment by an employee or student; 3)who otherwise would be ineligible for licensure, discrimination; and 4) American with Disabilitiesafter the fifth anniversary of the successful Act (ADA) compliance complaints. The abovecompletion of and dismissal from probation or actions can be grieved through the TTUHSCparole. The criminal offenses barring licensure, Office of Student Services. Grade Disputes shall beas defined by Texas Penal Code, include the grieved through the TTUHSC School of Nursing.following: murder; capital murder; reckless Non-Grade Complaint resolution proceduresmanslaughter; kidnapping, unlawful restraint, or include both informal and formal processes.unlawful transport of a person for payment and Students should use the formal complaintpunishable as a felony; sexual assault; aggravated procedure only as a last resort. Prior to thesexual assault; indecency with a child, an elderly informal process it may be helpful for the studentor disabled person; perpetrator of family violence, to consult with the Associate Academic Dean foran agreement to abduct a child; the sale or Student Affairs to clarify the issues involved.purchase of a child; robbery; aggravated robbery; Informal Processan offense that requires the individual to register The goal of the informal process is to establishas a sexual offender; and convictions for similar communication between the student and thecrimes in a military tribunal. appropriate faculty/staff member or student forNON-GRADE COMPLAINT or GRIEVANCE the purpose of providing a forum where theIt is the policy of the Texas Tech University student’s questions or concerns can be addressedHealth Sciences Center School of Nursing to and a satisfactory resolution developed.affirm the right of its students to a prompt andTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 45
Prior to filing a formal written grievance, dispute. If the DC/ADBF is the faculty/staffstudents are encouraged to first address their member cited in the grievance, he/she shouldcomplaint informally with the faculty, staff, or recuse himself/herself and the AADESSAstudent involved. The parties involved in the shall mediate the facilitated discussions on thenon-grade grievance are encouraged to resolve grievance.the misunderstanding, concern, or grievance • All parties to the complaint will be allowedthrough discussion. If, after meeting with the to submit documentation to the appropriatefaculty/staff or student involved in the grievance, supervisor. The DC/ADBF will conduct anthe student remains unsatisfied, the next step in investigation of the dispute and interviewthe informal process is for the student to discuss each of the parties to the dispute individuallythe issue with their department chair, regional or may at his/her discretion conduct a jointdean, or the Associate Academic Dean for Student meeting of the parties to mediate and resolveAffairs (AADESSA) as appropriate. If the issue is the dispute. No parties other than thosenot resolved informally, the student has the right involved in the complaint may participate orto meet with the AADESSA regarding the process attend.for filing a formal grievance. • The role of the DC/ADBF is to take evidenceFormal Process as described above, to listen to all parties, andTo file a non-grade grievance, the student shall: make a final decision regarding the complaint.• File the complaint form (Attachment A), The DC/ADBF will have ten (10) business days to render a decision from the date of available at http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/forms/ receipt of complaint form. Notification will within ten (10) business days from the date of be sent to the student filing the complaint the last meeting with the appropriate faculty, as well as the faculty/staff member or fellow staff, or fellow student with the AADESSA. student via certified mail and/or via email. The student must include in the complaint All substantive decisions of the DC/ADBF are form a written statement including any final. information regarding attempts at resolution, Appeal to the Dean and basis for the allegation that was unfair and The student filing the complaint may only appeal the expected remedy or outcome by filing the issues of procedural due process to the Dean of grievance. the School of Nursing. Within five (5) business• The AADESSA will submit the complaint days of the date of the decision of the DC/ADBF, form and any accompanying evidence to the student filing the complaint must submit to either the Department Chair (DC) responsible the Associate Academic Dean for Student Affairs for the faculty member(s) or fellow student the form for procedural appeal (Attachment B). involved or the Associate Dean for Business This form is located at http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/ and Finance (ADBF) for the staff member forms/. The decision of the Dean will be sent to involved. The DC/ADBF shall notify all the student and faculty/staff or fellow student parties to the complaint and convene an via certified mail and/or via email within five informal meeting with the faculty/staff or (5) business days of receipt of the appeal. The fellow student and student filing the complaint decision of the Dean is final. separately and review all materials pertinent All records will be retained in the Office of the to the complaint. If two or more students are Associate Academic Dean for Student Affairs for involved, the DC/ADBF may elect to meet three (3) years. with the students either separately or jointly. The role of the DC/ADBF is to mediate the46 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
PASS – FAIL OPTION Committee. A student who left in good standingStudents may not take any courses required for a and seeking readmission shall complete anddegree in nursing as Pass-Fail. Courses previously submit a readmission application showing thetaken as Pass-Fail will not be transferred for credit expected entry point to the appropriate Studentif the course is required for a School of Nursing Affairs Coordinator. The Coordinator will notifydegree. the chair of the Admissions and Progressions Committee of the request for readmission alongPLACEMENT IN CLINICAL FACILITY with providing the most current transcript, andEvery effort will be made to place a student in a a summary of the circumstances of the student’sclinical facility convenient for the student in terms withdrawal, if known.of location and range of clinical experiences. The A student who left with a record not in gooddecision for clinical placement rests with the standing for disciplinary causes must completefaculty teaching in the clinical course. A student and submit a readmission application to themay be removed from a clinical setting at any appropriate Student Affairs Coordinator alongtime if the faculty teaching the course believes it with a letter explaining the circumstancesis in the best interest of the student. All students resulting in the withdrawal/dismissal and theare guests of the facility where clinical experiences plan to improve or correct performance ifoccur. As such, students are required to adhere to offered readmission. The appropriate Studentall policies and procedures of the assigned facility. Affairs Coordinator will forward the application, the letter, and any available academic recordsPLACEMENT IN COURSE including the most recent transcript to the chairStudents progressing through the program in of the Admissions and Progressions Committee.a regular, uninterrupted sequence are assured The Admissions and Progressions Committeespace in the nursing courses. Limited resources shall review all such requests and may take onemay restrict the School of Nursing from assuring of the following actions regarding readmissionimmediate placement in nursing courses to of a student: 1) eligible and admit, 2) eligiblestudents whose progress through the curriculum pending space availability in nursing courses andhas been interrupted. in sequence to date of action in relation to other readmission applicants, 3) not eligible. TheREADMISSION Admissions and Progressions Committee mayUndergraduate Programs assign requirements to be met as a condition of enrollment, i.e. readmission on a part-time degreeTraditional BSN Program plan.Any student who has been dismissed or who Veteran to BSN students who are unable towithdrew for academic or disciplinary causes or as complete a semester due to having been called toa result of a Complaint of Misconduct is ineligible active duty may be “readmitted and re-enrolled asfor readmission to the Traditional BSN Program. a student without penalty or redetermination of admission eligibility within two years followingAccelerated BSN Program: Second Degree BSN release from the state or federal active military/Veteran to BSN service. If student does not seek readmissionAll requests for readmission must be made within two years of active service, the studentno later than two (2) months prior to the first will be required to complete admissions processday of the semester in which readmission is to determine eligibility”. (See SON Operatingrequested. The Accelerated BSN Program Council Policy 30.124-Miltary Service for additionalis responsible for overseeing all readmissionrequests via the Admissions and ProgressionsTTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 47
considerations) which readmission is requested. The GraduateRN to BSN Program Program Department Chairs and MSN andAll requests for readmission must be made no DNP Councils are responsible for overseeing alllater than two (2) months prior to the first day of readmissions to the School of Nursing Graduatethe semester in which readmission is requested. Programs. Readmission of a student dismissed orThe RN to BSN Program Council is responsible who withdrew for academic or disciplinary causesfor overseeing all requests for readmission via is also based upon the decision of the appropriatethe Admissions and Progressions Committee. A Department Chair and MSN or DNP Council.student who left in good standing and seeking A student seeking readmission must comply withreadmission shall complete and submit a the following:readmission application showing the expected • Submit a letter requesting readmission to theentry point to the appropriate StudentAffairs Coordinator. The Coordinator will notify Graduate Programthe chair of the Admissions and Progressions • Meet all recommendations and requirementsCommittee of the request for readmission alongwith providing the most current transcript, and set forth by the appropriate Department Chaira summary of the circumstances of the student’s and MSN or DNP Councilwithdrawal, if known. A student who left with • Complete online application and meeta record not in good standing for disciplinary admission criteria for full admissioncauses must complete and submit a readmission REGISTRATIONapplication to the appropriate Student Affairs Students register for courses via the WebRaiderCoordinator along with a letter explaining the Portal on the days identified by the TTUHSCcircumstances resulting in the withdrawal/ Registrar’s Office. Specific information on howdismissal and the plan to improve or correct to register is provided by the Academic Advisor,performance if offered readmission. The after student advisement.appropriate Student Affairs Coordinator will SUSPENSION and RETENTIONforward the application, the letter, and any Students must meet school and programavailable academic records including the most standards, refer to the TTUHSC Operating Policyrecent transcript to the chair of the Admissions 77.05.and Progressions Committee. The Admissions TEXTBOOKSand Progressions Committee review all such Courses utilize information from variousrequests and may take one of the following actions mediums, including textbooks. Specific textbooksregarding readmission of a student: 1) eligible may be required to be purchased by the student.and admit, 2) eligible pending space availability Each semester, the required and optional texts arein nursing courses and in sequence to date of listed for each course on the following website:action in relation to other readmission applicants, http://nursing.ttuhsc.edu/textbooks. Students3) not eligible. The Admissions and Progressions may purchase the texts through a vendor of theCommittee may assign requirements to be met as student’s choice.a condition of enrollment, i.e. readmission on a UNSAFE STUDENT PRACTICESpart-time degree plan. A student demonstrating any unsafe practicesGraduate Programs as outlined below may be subject to disciplinaryAll requests for readmission must be made no actions dependent upon the severity of thelater than the application deadline listed in the unsafe practice, including but not limited to,School of Nursing Catalog for the semester in48 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
the following: verbal warning, written warning,formal reprimand, failure, and/or dismissal. Everyeffort will be made to use progressive discipline;however, at the discretion of the faculty member,a student can be failed at any time during thesemester for an unsafe practice as defined below.• Violates or threatens the physical, psychological, microbiological, chemical, pharmacological or thermal safety of the patient.• Violates previously mastered principles/ learning objectives in carrying out nursing care skills or delegated medical functions.• Accepts assignments beyond knowledge, education, experience or competence.• Fails to recognize or accept legal/ethical responsibility for actions as defined in the Nursing Practice Act for the State of Texas or the Code for Nurses of the American Nurses Association.• Fails to carry out CDC Standard Precautions.TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017 49
GENERAL INFORMATIONACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS (FERPA) performed by a qualified professional (such asThe Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act a licensed physician or audiologist) should beof 1974 (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. Section 1232g; 34 provided to the ADA Compliance Officer forCFR Part 99) affords certain rights to students Students. Documentation of physical, sensory,concerning their educational records. FERPA or health-related disabilities (including, but notgrants students the right to inspect and review limited to, orthopedic, hearing, visual, systematic,their educational records (with exceptions), to or chronic illnesses) should include:request the records be amended, to have limited • A diagnosis of the specific disability (includingcontrol over the disclosure of informationcontained in their records, and to file a complaint prognosis if appropriate); andwith the U.S. Department of Education • An indication of the severity and mannerconcerning alleged failures of the University tocomply with the requirements of FERPA. The in which the disability limits the student’sTTUHSC Institutional Student Handbook shall activity, particularly as it relates to Universityserve as the annual notification that must be life; andprovided to students under FERPA, 34 C.R.F. • Recommendations for reasonable academic99.7, unless individual TTUHSC schools annually accommodations to equalize the student’snotify their students of FERPA rights otherwise. opportunities at a post-secondary level. • Please allow at least 15 University workingAMERICAN WITH DISABILITIES ACT days for process of application after all(ADA) documents have been received by the Office ofTTUHSC complies with the American with Student Services.Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 Rehabilitation Students seeking accommodation on the basisAct of 1973, and state and local requirements of disability MUST register with the office ofregarding students with disabilities. Under these TTUHSC Student Services at http://www.ttuhsc.laws, no otherwise qualified and competitive edu/studentservices/ada/default.aspx.individual with a disability shall be denied access CAREER SERVICES CENTERto or participation in services, programs and The School of Nursing Career Services Centeractivities of TTUHSC solely on the basis of the (CSC) provides programs and services designed todisability. empower students and alumni to actively explore, pursue and implement career and educationStudents with grievances related to discrimination decisions. Through collaborative partnershipson the basis of a disability with academic departments and employers themay contact the ADA Compliance Officer for CSC provides the most current and innovativeStudents in the Office of Student Services. Any career resources and information.student seeking remedy on the basis of disability Examples of Services provided:must register as a disabled student with the ADA • Resume and cover letter development andCompliance Office for Students and must provide review servicesall required documentation of disability. • Hospital information sessions and career fairs • Interview preparation, including mockDocumentation Criteria Physical, Sensory, or interviewsHealth-Related Disabilities • Career development sessions, includingDocumentation in the form of an evaluation50 TTUHSC School of Nursing / Academic Catalog / 2016-2017
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