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School of Nursing Student Handbook
Welcome to StudentsLETTER TO NEW STUDENTSDear Nursing Student: Welcome to the University of Kansas School of Nursing. Nursing is a profession that can take you anywhere you wish to be. It has virtually no boundaries. The KU School of Nursing provides the educational foundation that makes all of this possible for you. Since opening its doors in 1906, the University of Kansas School of Nursing has provided the highest quality of education. Our faculty has clinical and academic expertise that is recognized nationally and that places them among the nursing leaders in educational innovations and nursing research. You join a student body made up of students with both excellent academic records and a true sense of caring for individuals that can make a difference in their lives. You will learn to apply the science and art of health care to meet the needs of individuals and the community. On behalf of the faculty and staff of the University of Kansas School of Nursing, I invite you to immerse yourself in learning. Enjoy your time here at the University of Kansas Medical Center with the students in the other health professions as you learn to work together. Sally L. Maliski, PhD, RN, FAAN ADMINISTRATION AND STAFFExecutive Vice Chancellor, Robert D. Simari, M.D. Academic Affairs Office Staff (913-588-4286)Educational and Fellowship Coordinator, Laura Crystal MA Nursing Grants and Research Office Staff (913-588-1630)Administrative Assistant, Shawn House Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Office Staff (913-588-1619)Administrative Assistant, Susi Modiri General RequirementsANNOUNCEMENTS AND COMMUNICATIONMaintaining Accurate Contact Information:Every student is responsible for making address and phone number changes in Enroll & Pay as soon as a change occurs. E-mail: Upon admission, each student is assigned an e-mail address. E-mail is the official means of communication from the University to the student. It is expected that students adhere to KUMC policies related to proper email usage. The student’s email account also facilitates access to myKUMC, Enroll & Pay, Blackboard, and other online KUMC services. Students are expected to check their KUMC email daily. Blackboard: Blackboard is a learning management system where all online course components are accessed by students. Because all students use Blackboard routinely, announcements are posted on Blackboard. When an announcement is urgent, the posting is also forwarded to student email accounts. Announcements typically include notices of important academic dates, volunteer and job opportunities, and upcoming events of interest, among others. COMPUTER REQUIREMENTSEvery student is required to have access to a computer (desktop, laptop, or notebook) that meets standards approved by the School of Nursing. Nursing students may also utilize computer equipment located in the Dykes Library. KUMC Information Resources provides various services supporting student computing needs, including access to various software and technical assistance. Faculty and staff office equipment, i.e., computers, copiers, printers, and fax machines, are generally not available for student use. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION BADGESStudent photo identification badges are required to be worn all times while on campus. Details about distribution of badges is announced during new student orientations. The badge facilitates entry into KUMC buildings after hours. Distance education students (those in web-based and outreach site programs) may request a KU Medical Center photo identification badge by contacting the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management (913-588-1619 or ). DRUG SCREEN POLICYHealthcare providers are entrusted with the health, safety, and welfare of patients; have access to confidential and sensitive information; and operate in settings that require the exercise of good judgment and ethical behavior. Additionally, clinical facilities are increasingly requiring drug screening of any individuals, including students, who provide services and care within their facilities, both for safety reasons and to remain in compliance with Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) standards. Assessment of a student’s suitability to function in a clinical setting is imperative to promote integrity in healthcare services. Clinical observations and rotations are an essential element in certain degree programs’ curricula. A student with a positive drug screen may be barred from certain clinical facilities and thus may be unable to fulfill degree program requirements. Identification of such students prior to clinical rotations will enable appropriate assessment and follow-up. All students receive instructions on how and when to complete the pre-admission or pre-clinical/practicum screening. Students may be required to complete drug testing at multiple points in their academic career depending on affiliated facility requirements. Students are required to have a negative test result prior to proceeding into their first course requiring clinical observations, practicums, rotations or placements. Undergraduate: Traditional (on-campus) BSN students undergo a urine drug screen (UDS) prior to admission. A confirmed positive test may result in a rescinding of acceptance into the program. RN-to-BSN students undergo UDS if their capstone course requires a clinical experience. When this is the case, the student must complete the screening prior to participating in the required course. A student with a confirmed positive test may be referred to the appropriate student assistance program for evaluation and treatment, possible student disciplinary hearing, and proper disposition through the Student Admission and Progression Committee (SAPC). Community College Partnership students are required to undergo UDS as directed and managed by their respective community college. Graduate: Graduate students undergo a UDS prior to participating in clinical or practicum observations, rotations or placements. A confirmed positive test may preclude participation in clinical or practicum observations, practicum, rotations, placement at certain facilities, and/or lead to dismissal from the School of Nursing. A student with a confirmed positive test may be referred to the appropriate student assistance program for evaluation and treatment, possible student disciplinary hearing, and proper disposition through the SAPC. The full School of Nursing drug screen policy (Appendix A) is provided in Section XII of this document. Scholarships and Student AwardsSCHOLARSHIPSScholarships are awarded each fall and spring term. Notice to apply for scholarships are sent in early summer for the fall term and in late fall for the spring term. To be considered for the maximum number of scholarships offered through the School, students are strongly encouraged to submit a FAFSA. All scholarship applications are reviewed for alignment with individual scholarship requirements. Scholarship awards are recommended by the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management and approved by the Student Admission and Progression Committee. Other forms of financial assistance are available through the KUMC Office of Student Financial Aid. STUDENT AWARDSVarious awards are presented to graduating nursing students. The students are recognized at various banquets and at the Recognition Ceremony. Awards include:
Student Organizations and RepresentationSTUDENT ORGANIZATIONSAssociation of Undergraduate Students in Nursing (AUSN) at the University of Kansas is the body of student government for undergraduates in nursing. The purpose is to provide a means for establishing and maintaining communication, cooperation and understanding among the undergraduate nursing students at the University of Kansas and to promote the welfare of undergraduate students in nursing through participation in designated university and school governance activities. The organization provides an avenue of interaction between the School of Nursing faculty and other student organizations at the University of Kansas including the Student Governing Council. All undergraduate students in nursing at the University of Kansas are members upon enrollment. Officers are elected from the new class in mid-fall semester. A copy of the current AUSN bylaws is distributed to each undergraduate nursing student early each fall semester. Meetings are usually held once a month. Kansas University Student Nurses Association (KUSNA) and Kansas Association of Nursing Students (KANS) is part of a nationwide organization, the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA). The local chapter affiliate is KU Student Nurses Association (KUSNA). It is the only national professional organization for undergraduate students in schools of nursing. NSNA and KANS offer the opportunity to participate now as a change agent and to develop the leadership skills BSN students will need as a professional nurse. NSNA is involved in speaking for all nursing students; it is their voice in nursing and health care. Issues of concern to NSNA include: Student rights and responsibilities, level of entry into practice, recruitment of minority students, community health activities, and national and state legislation affecting the health care system. There are annual state and national conventions, officers at all levels are elected each year, and activities are offered at both state and local levels. NSNA is an autonomous organization but has very close ties with the American Nurses Association (ANA). The local organization (KUSNA) supports activities that promote health by participating in health fair screening programs for children and migrant workers and other programs. Fund raising activities are conducted throughout the year to assist interested members financially when attending state, regional and national conventions. Meetings are usually held monthly or bi-weekly. In addition, the members plan some "just for fun" activities throughout the year that include friends and families. Sigma Theta Tau International is the honor society of nursing. The Delta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau at the University of Kansas School of Nursing honors students who meet the eligibility criteria for membership. The purpose of the organization is to foster excellence in nursing. STUDENT REPRESENTATION ON FACULTY AND STUDENT COMMITTEESStudent committee representatives are sought early in the
school year. Students have found that participation on these committees are helpful as an added learning experience. Appointments are usually made for the year. Students are encouraged to respond to announcements for volunteers or to contact the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management for more information. The following is a brief guide to faculty committees on which students have voting representation: Research Committee: This committee reviews proposals of faculty research for funding recommendations to the Associate Dean for Research and makes policy recommendations regarding research and research support issues. The graduate student representative participates fully in the committee's work and also assists in planning KUMC Student Research Forum. Meetings are held monthly. Student Admission and Progression Committee: This committee reviews problems and discusses issues pertinent to faculty and students, as well as makes policy recommendations and curricular suggestions. Meetings are usually held twice monthly. Committee for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: This committee demonstrates the value KU SON places on diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensures new knowledge and best practices related to diversity, equity, and inclusion are present in the curricula, and raises the level of knowledge and appreciation of cultural practices among patients, faculty, staff, students, preceptors, and others. The committee also collaborates with the School of Medicine Office of Cultural Enrichment and Diversity, the School of Health Professions standing committee on cultural diversity, and the EVC's Diversity & Inclusion Cabinet, along with other stakeholders, to advance cultural knowledge and appreciation, especially related to education, service, and research. In addition to faculty committees, graduate and undergraduate nursing students are represented on the Student Governing Council (SGC). SGC is the primary student governing body at KUMC and is a combined council of medicine, health professions, and nursing students. Graduate Student Council (GSC) is the primary governing body for graduate students at KUMC and is comprised of student from medicine, health professions, and nursing. Professional ConductTHE AMERICAN NURSES' ASSOCIATION'S "CODE OF ETHICS FOR NURSES"is a guide for performing nursing responsibilities in a manner consistent with quality nursing care and ethical obligations. KANSAS BOARD OF NURSING’S KANSAS NURSE PRACTICE ACT STATUTES & ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS.Standards of practice begin on page 25. KANSAS STATE BOARD OF NURSING LAW REGARDING DENIAL, REVOCATION, LIMITATION OR SUSPENSION OF NURSING LICENSESFor a number of reasons, the Kansas State Board of Nursing may deny, revoke, limit or suspend a nursing license. These include: fraud or deceit in practicing nursing or in procuring a license; holding a felony conviction; being incompetent; being unable to practice due to abuse of drugs or alcohol; being judged in need of a guardian; exhibiting unprofessional conduct; having violated the provisions of the Kansas Nurse Practice Act; and having action taken against your nursing license in another state. The Kansas Nurse Practice Act states that no person who has been convicted of a felony against persons (as specified in article 34 of chapter 21 of the Kansas Statutes Annotated and amendments) shall be granted a license to practice nursing in the state of Kansas. In other felony or misdemeanor instances, the Board of Nursing will conduct an investigation and make an individual decision. Admission to the University of Kansas School of Nursing does not guarantee eligibility to test for a nursing license in Kansas if a person's past record includes any of the situations listed above. SCHOOL OF NURSING AND CLINICAL RELATIONSHIPSA cooperative arrangement exists between The University of Kansas Health System (TUKHS) Hospital Department of Nursing and the School of Nursing. Nursing students adhere to the policies and regulations of The University of Kansas Health System which pertain to safe patient care. In the patient area: no smoking, proper identification (student identification badge), and proper dress. A lab coat may be worn over professional looking street clothes in the patient area, if not giving nursing care. Employment opportunities are available through the Department of Nursing. Interested students may contact TUKHS Talent Acquisition office at 913-588-5627. Various clinical agencies employ University of Kansas nursing students in various job capacities. Students working for clinical agencies must clearly understand that when they work for pay in a clinical agency, they do not represent the University and therefore must not wear anything that designates them as a KU student (such as uniforms, name tags or arm patches). Students are further cautioned to perform only those duties outlined in the job descriptions for which they are adequately prepared, and which are within the legal confines of a non-professional position. University of Kansas liability insurance does not cover nursing students under employment conditions. Academic PoliciesGUIDELINES FOR INDEPENDENT STUDYIn keeping with the philosophy of the University of Kansas School of Nursing, independent study supports the following statements:
No more than 6 credits may be taken as independent study. Appropriate prerequisite courses, as determined by the independent study faculty advisor, must be completed. The procedure for independent study is:
WITHDRAWAL FROM COURSES OR FROM THE SCHOOL OF NURSINGStudents must officially drop or withdraw from courses. Non-attendance does not constitute a drop or withdrawal. Individual courses can be dropped in Enroll and Pay prior to the first day of class for the semester and through the 5th day of classes for that semester. Tuition and fees are adjusted according to the adjustment schedule in the academic calendar. Students receiving financial assistance are strongly encouraged to visit Student Financial Aid prior to withdrawing from classes. A canceled course does not appear on an academic transcript. A withdrawn course does appear on the academic transcript with a grade of W and is not factored into the student's grade point average. In order to completely withdraw, you must contact your academic advisor and the School of Nursing office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. In order to withdraw, students should follow the instructions on the Registrar's website. The academic calendar for each year is also linked to this site. Please pay close attention to the withdrawal deadlines posted by the Registrar. A withdrawal will not be approved if the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management believes that sufficient information concerning your situation was available to you in time to permit you to consider dropping through the 12th week of classes. Withdrawal based upon illness, disability, or stress: Generally, petitions based upon illness, disability, or stress will not be approved unless the problem affected your academic performance for at least two weeks during the last part of the semester. Also, petitions will generally not be approved if the problem is a chronic one. The Associate Dean, Student Affairs & Enrollment Management will not be able to determine the validity of these petitions based upon your description alone. You must obtain a letter from a physician, dentist, psychologist, social worker, police, or court official who is involved in your problem. Normally, if the problem was not serious enough to cause you to seek professional help, withdrawal is not justified. The letter should include the following information: a. How your problem affected your academic performance, e. g., your inability to attend class. It is not necessary to state the specific illness, disability, or stressful event. b. The period during which your academic performance was affected. The dates should also be included. c. The periods of hospitalization, bedrest, etc. The dates should be included. d. When the problem began and ended. e. Whether a reduction in class load is recommended. Withdrawal based upon a death: You must document the death. Generally, this is done by submitting a newspaper clipping or funeral announcement that includes the date of the funeral or death. You must state your relationship to the person who died and the period during which your academic performance was affected. Withdrawal based upon misadvising: Usually cases of misadvising consist of a University representative giving erroneous information. If your instructor gives you incorrect information concerning the dates or procedures for withdrawal, for example, this would be misadvising. If you were given erroneous information, you should petition and submit a letter from the faculty member, University staff, or University official who misadvised you. This person must accept responsibility for the misadvising. Withdrawal based upon work: Very few withdrawal petitions based upon work are approved. Usually work situations are long-standing or voluntary. It is your responsibility to assess these situations early and withdraw, if necessary, from the affected classes during the first part of the semester. If late in the semester your performance in a class is affected by a change in your work schedule that is required by your employer as a condition of employment, you should petition and submit a letter from your employer on business letterhead. This letter should include your working schedule for the semester, the changes in your schedule, the date your employment began, the date(s) when the change(s) occurred, and a statement that the change(s) that prompted the petition was (were) required by your employer as a condition of your continued employment. We expect that the University, Athletic Corporation, fraternities, sororities, etc., will not require employment changes that interfere with your classes; therefore, it is unlikely that a petition involving changes in such jobs will be approved. Withdrawal based upon lack of evaluation: If prior to the end of the first part of the semester, you have received no evaluation of your academic performance in a class, you may be withdrawn from the class. You must submit a letter from your instructor verifying that no evaluation for any work for the class (e. g., homework, paper, quiz, test, etc.) has been made available to you prior to the end of the fourteen days of the semester. Withdrawal based upon enrollment error: Generally, these petitions concern a course that you thought you had dropped or for which you were not aware you were enrolled. You are responsible for properly dropping a course and for knowing the courses for which you are enrolled; therefore, unless the error is well-documented, it is unlikely that your petition will be approved. If an enrollment error occurred, you should submit a petition and include a copy of your enrollment, copies of drop/ add slips, a letter from your instructor stating when you stopped participating in class, and a statement indicating when and how you became aware of the error. Claims of having dropped a class that are not substantiated by a drop slip are not likely to be approved. Withdrawal based upon other circumstances: The above are the most common reasons for the approval of a withdrawal petition. It is not possible to state all the circumstances that justify withdrawal. If your circumstances do not fall into one of the categories above and you submit a petition, you should include the following information: a. State the circumstances that you believe justify withdrawal showing how they affected your performance, and when. Be specific. Give the dates during which your performance was affected. b. Provide documented evidence supporting your statements. Petitions which lack necessary supporting documents, or which are in other ways incomplete, will not be acted upon. To withdraw from the School of Nursing a student must make arrangements prior to the cessation of attendance at class or clinical practice. A student wishing to return to the School of Nursing after withdrawing or being dismissed may petition for readmission. This petition will be reviewed by the Student Admission and Progression Committee. The petitioner is responsible for supplying all data requested by the Student Admission and Progression Committee as well as any other information which maybe helpful to the petition. LEAVE OF ABSENCEStudents may request a leave of absence if they are not intending to be continuously enrolled. A Leave of Absence (LOA) must be approved by the academic department and Graduate Studies/International Program (if applicable). Student network and e-mail accounts remain active during the LOA period.
To request a LOA, contact the appropriate Records Specialist in the School of Nursing Student Affairs Office. The effective date of the LOA is based on the date the student submits the request to the KUMC Registrar's Office. REACTIVATION OF RECORDSStudents who are not continuously enrolled or on active LOA status (except for the Summer session) must have their records reactivated and are assessed the Reactivation Fee. If a
student has not enrolled in over a year, their eligibility to have their status re-activated will be verified with their academic department by the Office of the Registrar. READMISSION TO A SCHOOL OF NURSING PROGRAMWhen a student who has withdrawn from the School of Nursing (due to personal reasons, expired LOA status, or academic dismissal) and then wishes to renter the appropriate program in the School, the following procedure should be followed:
GRADUATION AND EVENTSApplication for Degree: During the semester in which s/he expects to complete degree requirements, the student must complete an "application for degree" by the Registrar’s established deadline in Enroll & Pay. Recognition Ceremony: Each year the Recognition Ceremony honors each nursing graduate individually. Friends and family members are invited to attend. Held the day before University of Kansas Commencement, this academic ceremony commemorates the end of each student's effort to earn their degree in nursing. Awards are presented to students and KU nursing faculty members. The Recognition Ceremony is held at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall, 600 North 7th Street Trafficway, Kansas City, Kansas. It should be noted that the official KU commencement ceremonies are held on the Lawrence campus the next day involving graduates from all schools. School of Nursing graduates are encouraged to attend both the School of Nursing Recognition Ceremony and the University Commencement. Commencement: The University of Kansas holds one commencement ceremony annually in May. All candidates for all degrees conferred by the University in May, August or December are eligible to participate. One of the distinctive elements of commencement at the University of Kansas is the procession which forms near Strong Hall on Jayhawk Boulevard, continues down Mount Oread, and into Memorial Stadium. Faculty members and graduates wear academic dress which contributes to the pageantry of the event, and bears significance determined by the graduate's field and level of academic achievement. Performance Standards and PoliciesACCEPTABLE GRADES IN NURSING COURSESAll courses designated "NURS" or "NRSG" must be completed with a grade of C or better to meet requirements for graduation. All undergraduate clinical/practicum courses must be completed with a "satisfactory" to meet requirements for graduation. No student will be allowed to graduate with an "unsatisfactory" in a clinical course. Theory courses are graded on a letter-grade basis. Undergraduate clinical and skills courses are graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis. Nursing electives with a clinical component may be graded with a combination of letter grades and satisfactory/unsatisfactory or letter grade only. Grades in graduate theory courses and clinical/practicum courses are letter
grades. The faculty member(s) for each course establishes the minimum requirements for each letter/satisfactory grade.
No graduate student may graduate with:
REPETITION OF NURSING COURSESIf necessary to maintain the minimum course grade of a "C" or "S", a student may repeat a course once to earn the necessary grade. This practice is allowed one time for a single course in the nursing curriculum. Failure to achieve a "C" or "S" in two nursing courses, or the repeated nursing course, will result in dismissal from the School of Nursing at semester's end. If the second failure is in a course at the end of the first rotation, the student will be prohibited from beginning a new course in the second rotation. The student may complete courses currently in progress. ACADEMIC DIFFICULTY (PDF)ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT - PROFESSIONAL INTEGRITY SYSTEM BLUEPRINT (PROFITS)The purpose of the PROFITS is to:
The Professional Integrity System (PROFITS) of the University of Kansas School of Nursing affirms the core values that uphold and promote academic integrity. Academic integrity is characterized by the adherence to the basic and fundamental human values of honesty, trust, respect, fairness, and responsibility in the academic setting. Academic setting includes formal and informal settings of classroom, clinical, testing, laboratory, research, and all scholarly endeavors. Student behaviors that violate the above core values in the academic setting threaten academic integrity. Academic misconduct compromises the core values of the academic community. It undermines the process of knowledge acquisition, creation, sharing and evaluation. This academic misconduct policy applies to classroom, online and clinical courses. The full policy is provided as Appendix B in Section XII of this document. NON-ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT POLICYStudents and nursing student organizations are expected to conduct themselves as responsible and professional members of the University community. Non-Academic misconduct includes any violation of Board of Regents, University and/or School of Nursing policy as applicable to nursing students, for example substance abuse. While on University premises or at University sponsored or supervised events, students and organizations are subject to disciplinary action for violations of published policies, rules, and regulations of the University, Board of Regents and/or School of Nursing, including, but not limited to offenses listed in this policy. Any student or organization conduct that potentially violates the University’s policies prohibiting discrimination, harassment and retaliation will be reported to the University’s Office of Institutional Opportunity and Access. The full policy is provided as Appendix C in Section XII of this document. IMPAIRED STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM IN THE SCHOOL OF NURSINGThe faculty of the University of Kansas School of Nursing recognize and accept their responsibility to provide an educational atmosphere wherein nursing students may pursue and achieve their academic goals. The faculty also recognize and accept their responsibility to the public, health care institutions, and their clients to provide safe patient care. In support of these beliefs, the faculty concur with the University of Kansas policy prohibiting the unlawful possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of alcohol or other drugs by students or employees on its property or as part of any of its activities. We further believe that impaired nursing students may need assistance in order to free themselves of chemical dependency. The University of Kansas School of Nursing fully acknowledges the stressors students encounter in their professional and private roles and recognizes the impaired student as one whose aberrant behavior interferes with their ability to function according to accepted academic, professional, or social standards. We support participation in treatment programs that have goals to provide a lifestyle free of substance abuse as an option prior to expulsion. The full policy is provided as Appendix D in Section XII of this document. STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDUREThis procedure is available to all students, graduate or undergraduate, in the School of Nursing, should a conflict arise between a student and a faculty member or other person(s) (hereinafter called the involved party or parties) pertinent to the student's program of study. This procedure is NOT used by a student seeking resolution of conflicts arising from academic or non-academic misconduct. It is the student's responsibility to follow the prescribed steps within the grievance procedure; yet maintains the right to withdraw from the conflict resolution phase or the formal grievance at any point in the process. The full policy is provided as Appendix E in Section XII of this document. BSN (Kansas City and Salina) Program ProtocolsAll KUMC and School of Nursing policies apply to all students. The following content is additional BSN program-specific protocols. CURRICULUMSee: Undergraduate Curriculum Plan NURSING HONORS PROGRAMThe Nursing Honors Program offers enhanced educational opportunities for the most academically talented, promising, and motivated baccalaureate students while providing a foundation for leadership development and articulation into graduate education. The focus of the Nursing Honors Program is development and completion of a research project under the guidance of an active research mentor. Four courses comprise the program:
Applications for admission to the Nursing Honors Program can be obtained from the SON Student Affairs and Enrollment Management office. Applications are completed by students during fall of the junior year and are due about Thanksgiving. Students eligible to apply are those who are enrolled full-time in the generic BSN program and who have an overall GPA of 3.25 or higher. Note that students who are participating in the KU University Honors Program will automatically be admitted to the Nursing Honors Program. Application is required for administrative purposes. The Honors Program Admission Committee will review applications and make the final decision about acceptance into the program in December. Applicants will be notified in writing of their status into the Nursing Honors Program. ADVISINGEnrollment and program advising occurs with the BSN Program Advisor in the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. For career planning or other professional growth activities, the student may reach out to faculty members with whom they have developed rapport. Enrollment in Nursing Core CoursesBSN students must initially enroll for and complete theoretical and clinical core courses, concurrently. Exceptions to this policy are handled by the BSN Program Advisor and the Program Director. Course Drop/AddAll course drop/adds are handled through the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. Students wishing to drop, add, or change course sections should meet with the BSN Program Advisor to initiate the process. After gaining advisor approval, it is the student's responsibility to process the course revision through the Registrar's Office. Program Completion Time LimitBachelor of Science in Nursing degree requirements must be completed within five years of the date of first enrollment in BSN program courses. Academic DifficultyAcademic difficulty status occurs when a student earns a "D" or "F" in any course. Students in academic difficulty receive written notifications from the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. It is the student's responsibility to seek a conference with the BSN Program Advisor. The student and the BSN Program Advisor will jointly review the area(s) of difficulty and create a plan for improvement. Probationary StatusStudents whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for the semester are placed on probation. The student receives written notification from the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. It is the student's responsibility to seek a conference with the BSN Program Advisor. The student and the BSN Program Advisor will jointly review the area(s) of difficulty and create a plan for improvement. Removal from Probationary StatusA student remains on probationary status until completion of the next semester or term in which the student is enrolled full-time. (Full-time enrollment in spring and fall terms is 12 or more credit hours; full-time in summer terms is 6 hours or more credit hours) and whose cumulative GPA has improved to 2.0 or higher. A part-time student must maintain a 2.0 GPA in the next 12 semester hours of enrollment in order to be removed from probation. Only those courses required for the nursing major (junior/ senior coursework) will apply toward the required GPA for removal from probation. If, in that semester, the student attains above a 2.0 GPA and earns "satisfactory" grades in clinical courses, the student is removed from probation. If, in that semester, the student does not attain a 2.0 GPA, the student is dismissed from the School of Nursing for academic reasons. Leave of AbsenceLeaves of absence may be granted by the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. The student must meet the graduation requirements of the curriculum in effect at the time of return to the School of Nursing. [time away not counted toward five-year]. Maintaining Current CPR StatusBefore beginning class, each student must pass and receive certification in the Red Cross CPR for the Professional Rescuer including AED Essentials or the American Heart Association’s BLS for Health Care Providers and must maintain that certification throughout each clinical rotation. Failure to meet this requirement will result in removal from the clinical rotation. The clinical instructor will inspect each student's card and note the expiration date. Lead teachers will be notified of students whose certification has expired or will expire before the end of the clinical rotation and will follow up with those students. HIV-HBV Risk ExposureThe federal government requires that students in a clinical major complete the HIV-HBV Risk Exposure learning experience and questionnaire regularly during their enrollment. This process will be administered as part of the coursework in the undergraduate curriculum. Class AttendanceThe University of Kansas has no policy on class attendance however, students are responsible for material presented in class and for any announcements made in class regarding changes in schedule, class content, location or similar information. Absences from Clinical PracticeExcused absences may be granted by the lead teacher in conjunction with faculty members of the course or courses involved. Arrangements in regard to make-up work (if required) are left to the discretion of the faculty involved. See the Student Manual for your program for further information. Semester OverloadPermission must be obtained from the Associate Dean, Student Affairs and Enrollment Management to enroll in more than eighteen hours in any one semester or more than eight hours in any summer session. ExaminationsAll students enrolled in academic programs in the School of Nursing are required to take examinations as scheduled, unless prior permission is obtained from the lead teacher. Petition ProcessStudents may use the petition process to obtain special permission to pursue a different order of course work than normally required. A student seeking a petition should:
Incomplete GradesRefer to the current issue of The University of Kansas Undergraduate catalogfor the policy on incomplete grades. Removal from the Clinical SettingDiagram
pdf: The student may be removed from the clinical setting temporarily based on the professional opinion of the faculty, if the student is:
If a student is removed from the clinical area for behavior defined as misconduct, the faculty member will follow the Disciplinary Actions and Procedures for Misconduct. For definitions of Academic and Non-Academic misconduct,
see those sections in this handbook. Removal from the Clinical CourseRemoval from the clinical course may be recommended should the deficit remain unresolved following assistance and counseling. The clinical faculty member will be responsible for conferring with the student and informing the lead teacher, division coordinator, and the Associate Dean, Student Affairs, in writing, of the rationale for this action and methods utilized to resolve the issue. The student has a right to request a conference with the lead teacher and/ or the division coordinator. The Associate Dean, Student Affairs will meet with the student to review the recommendations and take action, the Associate Dean, Student Affairs will notify the clinical faculty member of the action taken. ACTION TO BE TAKEN MAY INCLUDE, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO:
PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSING STUDENTSThe University of Kansas Medical Center/University of Kansas Hospital is at once both a campus for education and a hospital complex devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of the sick and the maintenance of health. Thus, it is imperative that health sciences students conduct themselves in such a manner as to maintain both the professionalism which typifies those who dedicate themselves to maintenance of health through education, service and research, and the hygienic conditions conducive to that maintenance of health. Since the student has chosen to become a health professional, it is the administration's view that such professionalism reflected by appropriate behavior, appearance, and personal hygiene should begin on the first day of school and continue throughout the career. All conduct with patients should be in accordance with the guidelines of professional behavior and in the Patient's Rights brochure. Campus AttireStudents will maintain a professional appearance any time they are attending lecture or representing the School of Nursing off campus. The minimum appearance to be maintained shall be considered “business casual” with the following guidelines: slacks or khakis, dress shirt or blouse, open-collar or polo shirt, optional tie or seasonal sport coat, a dress or skirt no more than 3 inches above the top of the knee, a tailored blazer knit shirt, sweater or cardigan, and loafers or dress shoes that cover all or most of the foot. Denim pants of any kind, leggings worn as pants, t-shirts, shorts, revealing clothing, and flip-flops shall not be considered professional attire by these standards. Students always have the option to wear their clinical uniform to lecture in lieu of “business casual.” Clinical UniformA matching set of scrubs, a top with embroidered KU School of Nursing emblem and pants, and consultation coat, must all be purchased from the KU Medical Center Bookstore. A specific style of consultation coat and scrub uniform will be selected each year for students to purchase. The consultation coat and scrub uniform are to be worn only while the student is in clinical practice, lecture, or lab. No part of this uniform is to be worn in any setting where the student is functioning as an employee. When on the clinical unit performing clinical assignments, the students are required to wear the uniform top and pants. The student's only other variation will be whether or not to wear the approved long sleeve knit shirt under the scrub top. Sleeves longer than the wrist are not allowed. Student uniforms should fit properly and be worn without exposure of the bust/chest, midriff, and/or lower back. Shoes must be closed toe with a solid back and made of non-permeable material; no perforations or mesh are allowed. Shoes must be primarily solid and neutral colors (e.g., white, black, grey, navy, brown) and professional looking. A small logo is acceptable. Shoes such as combat boots or high heels of any type are not acceptable footwear for the clinical area. If socks are visible, they must be white or neutral in color. Each student must wear a digital or analogue watch that displays seconds and is large enough to be easily visible. Name BadgeStudents must wear the official, KU student photo identification badge at all times when at the KU Medical Center or other clinical settings. The name badge should be worn at shoulder level. The name badge will also allow after-hours access to specific areas of the KUMC campus. The photograph for the identification badge will be taken during New Student Orientation. Clinical Unit Attire When Not Performing Patient CareWhen a student is on a clinical unit but not performing patient care, he or she must wear the white consultation coat with campus attire or clinical uniform. The student name badge must be visible at all times. Jewelry, Body Piercing, Tattoos, Hair and Cosmetics, Fingernails.
Policy EnforcementNursing clinical faculty supervising students will monitor this policy; however, the clinical agency will also monitor this policy as it involves the safety of their patients. Clinical faculty may send a student home to achieve a professional appearance if so warranted. Classroom/Learning Lab SettingIn the classroom or lab setting, students are expected to maintain the same professional dress standards as in the clinical setting, detailed in the policy above. If a student exhibits a pattern of unprofessional dress (in violation of policy) in the classroom or lab, the matter will be verbally addressed by course faculty or appropriate graduate teaching assistant. If the student does not change or adapt his or her attire based on this feedback, the student may be asked to leave the classroom or learning lab. If a student is asked to leave class/lab due to inappropriate attire, he/she will forfeit any points associated with that day and may be asked to perform makeup assignments. BSN – Community College Nursing Partnership ProtocolsAll KUMC and School of Nursing policies apply to all students. The following content is additional CCNP-specific protocols. CURRICULUMSee: Undergraduate Curriculum Plan ADVISINGEnrollment and program advising occurs with the CCNP Program Advisor in the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. For career planning or other professional growth activities, the student may reach out to faculty members with whom they have developed rapport. Enrollment in Nursing CoursesCCNP students must enroll in the courses specified in their degree completion plan. Exceptions to this set enrollment are handled by the CCNP Program Advisor and the Program Director. Course Drop/AddAll course drop/adds are handled through the Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. Students wishing to drop, add, or change course sections should meet with the CCNP Program Advisor to initiate the process. After gaining advisor approval, it is the student's responsibility to process the course revision through the Registrar's Office. Program Completion Time LimitCommunity College Partnership courses must be completed simultaneously with the associate degree in nursing courses. All degree requirements must be completed within five years of the date of first enrollment in CCNP program courses. Academic DifficultyAcademic difficulty status occurs when a student earns a "D" or "F" in any course. Students in academic difficulty receive written notifications from the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. It is the student's responsibility to seek a conference with the CCNP Program Advisor. Probationary StatusStudents whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for the semester are placed on probation. The student receives written notification from the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. It is the student's responsibility to seek a conference with the CCNP Program Advisor. The student and the CCNP Program Advisor will jointly review the area(s) of difficulty and create a plan for improvement. Removal from Probationary StatusA student on probation status must maintain a 2.0 GPA in the next 12 semester hours of enrollment at KU in order to be removed from probation. Only those courses required for the nursing major (junior/ senior coursework) will apply toward the required GPA for removal from probation Leave of AbsenceLeaves of absence may be granted by the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. The student must meet the graduation requirements of the curriculum in effect at the time of return to the School of Nursing. Class AttendanceThe University of Kansas has no policy on class attendance however, students are responsible for material presented in class and for any announcements made in class regarding changes in schedule, class content, location or similar information. ExaminationsAll students enrolled in academic programs in the School of Nursing are required to take examinations as scheduled, unless prior permission is obtained from the lead teacher. Incomplete GradesRefer to the current issue of The University of Kansas Undergraduate catalogfor the policy on incomplete grades. RN to BSN ProtocolsThe RN to BSN degree completion program at the University of Kansas School of Nursing provides registered nurses a way to complete their bachelor's degrees as quickly as possible. The program can be completed in as little as two semesters of full-time study or up to five years of part-time study. The BSN is made up of 120 credit hours, 60 of which are prerequisite liberal arts and sciences courses. These may be taken at any accredited four-year or community college. The remaining 60 credit hours required for the BSN make up the nursing major. Credit for the nursing major courses are earned through a combination of portfolio examination and nursing course work. For complete information on the RN to BSN curriculum, including credit earned through portfolio examination, go to Online RN to BSN. Credit hours earned by any nonresidential means, including portfolio credit, must meet criteria set by the University of Kansas and/or the Board of Regents in order to be accepted for transfer. A maximum of 31 credit hours of portfolio can apply toward degree completion status. Articulation Policies for Registered NursesThe Kansas Articulation Plan for Nursing Education has been endorsed by the School of Nursing. Graduates of Kansas associate degree or diploma nursing programs who meet the requirements stipulated in the articulation plan will be awarded selected nursing credit hours by portfolio examination. Out of state graduates will be evaluated individually before nursing credit is awarded. Appeal for Exception to Advanced Standing PoliciesUniversity of Kansas School of Nursing policy regarding appeal for exception to advanced standing states: The student who fails to meet the stated criteria for (1) direct transfer of credit or (2) eligibility for portfolio credit may petition the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management for special consideration or waiver of the stated criteria. Graduate Programs ProtocolsThe following information is provided as an overview of graduate program protocols. For more detailed information, consult the Graduate Studies and Research section of this handbook and the current issue of DNP or PhD Student Manuals, both available online in Blackboard or from the School of Nursing Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. Graduate Studies PoliciesThe official statement of policies regarding Graduate Studies programs, faculty, and students is in the University of Kansas Graduate catalog. The graduate student in nursing is responsible for being acquainted with this information. In addition, consult the Graduate Studies section of this handbook. This information should be read and available for reference by the student. The following are some of the current policies which may be of interest. Graduate Student OrientationNew Student Orientation will occur during prior to the start of class each semester. Newly admitted students will receive communication regarding these orientation activities. The coordination of these activities is done in the School of Nursing Office of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management. The purposes of orientation include:
ENROLLMENT IN GRADUATE COURSESGraduate
work is considerably more demanding and involves much more independent investigation than undergraduate study. The School regards 9 credit hours as the normal desirable full-time load in a fall or spring semester; a comparable load in a summer session would be 6 hours. RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS for the Master of Science ProgramThirty-seven
to forty-eight hours are required for completion of the requirements for the Master of Science degree in nursing (M.S.). Thirty hours of resident work must be completed at the University of Kansas. Six hours of transferred graduate credit may be applied toward the total number of hours needed to complete the degree. Only work graded A or B may be transferred. The University of Kansas does not accept the transfer of credit from other institutions for graduate-level courses completed in institutes
and workshops. In cases where the student has completed graduate level coursework elsewhere which cannot be transferred, the student may request a waiver of the requirement which that coursework fulfills. However, for Master's students, additional coursework will be required so that the minimum of 30 hours of KU coursework can be met. See the Associate Dean, Student Affairs for details. TIME LIMITSStudents have 7 years in which to complete the requirements for the Master of Science in Nursing degree and 8 years to complete the Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or D.N. P) in Nursing. Extension of the limit may be granted in exceptional circumstances for up to 1 year at a time by the Graduate Division of a student's school or college upon receipt of a satisfactorily documented petition from the student and a letter of support from the thesis or dissertation advisor. If the program is not completed within the time limit and an extension has not been granted, those courses which are over 7 or 8 years old must be repeated. If, for any reason, a master's student is unable to enroll in coursework in any semester or summer session, the student must notify the Office of Student Affairs. In some circumstances, a leave of absence may be appropriate. AdvisingGraduate students are assigned a program advisor and faculty mentor by the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at the time s/he is admitted. As a component of the admission letter, each student receives the contact information for their program advisor and faculty mentor. Functions of the program advisor include the following:
If a student wishes to change academic advisors, s/he may do so by submitting their request in writing to the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. If the student wishes to change major tracks (Sub-plan), she/ he must complete a Change of Major (Sub-plan) form and submit career goals in writing to the Office of Student Affairs. Notification of approval or denial of the request will be forwarded to the student. Students should have no doubt as to their academic standing and should not hesitate to approach the appropriate graduate faculty members for information on their academic standing and counsel. In each course, the instructor will be glad to discuss the student's work with her/ him. The Associate Dean, Student Affairs & Enrollment Management, the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs, Academic Affairs, or the Dean of the School of Nursing are available for consultation regarding more general questions. An appointment may be necessary. GRADESThe basic grading system of Graduate Studies is an A, B, C, D, F, system, where A designates above-average graduate work; B, average graduate work; C, passing but not average graduate work; D and F, failing graduate work. (D and F work does not, of course, count toward a degree.) “P” GradesThe letter P is used in this system only to indicate participation in thesis, dissertation, and research enrollments directly related to thesis or dissertation, or in the first semester enrollment of a two-semester sequence course. When the student's performance is considerably above or below expectations in research enrollments directly related to thesis or dissertation, with permission of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, instructors may assign a letter grade (A, B, C, D, or F). Upon completion of thesis or dissertation, as evidenced by the presentation of a thesis or dissertation, a letter grade (A, B, C, D, or F) shall be reported by the instructor for the last term of thesis or dissertation hour(s) in which the student was enrolled. This grade is to be based largely on the final product. The “I” grade is not appropriate for enrollment in thesis, dissertation, and research and will not be accepted. IncompletesFor enrollments other than thesis, dissertation, or research, the letter I is used to indicate coursework that has been of passing quality, some part of which is, for good reason, unfinished. The grade of I for graduate courses shall remain unchanged on the student's record except that should the student subsequently complete the coursework, the instructor would then change the I to a letter grade, i.e., A, B, C, D, or F. In addition, the School of Nursing has established a policy that a student in the Master of Science degree program, the Doctor of Nursing Practice program or Doctor of Philosophy in nursing Program has a maximum of one year from the time she/ he receives an I in a nursing course to complete the requirements for the course and receive a grade for the course. The instructor has the prerogative to require a shorter time for completion of the requirements. If the student wishes to receive credit for a course incomplete for longer than 1 year, the student then must enroll and repeat the coursework. Any exception to this rule would be determined by petition to the Student Admission and Progression Committee. The student should inquire with departments outside the School of Nursing regarding their policies for incomplete coursework, because those policies may differ. Probationary PolicyIf a student falls below a 3.0 GPA in any semester or term, that student will be placed on academic probation. The student attending full-time (9 semester credits) must attain an overall B average in the next semester of full-time enrollment to be removed from probation. Part-time students will be evaluated at the end of each subsequent semester to determine their progress toward raising the overall GPA to 3.0. No more than the equivalent of a semester of full-time study will be allowed on probation. Students admitted on probation will be removed from probation upon completion of the first 9 hours if the overall GPA is above 3.0. If the GPA is below 3.0, the student will face academic dismissal. TEACHING ASSISTANTSGraduate students who may be interested in assisting faculty members with teaching responsibilities may contact one of the Associate Deans, Academic Affairs of the School of Nursing. Written requests by graduate students may be made as early as one semester prior to the request for employment. RESEARCH ASSISTANTSGraduate students who may be interested in assisting faculty members with research responsibilities such as coding data and library searches may contact the Associate Dean, Nursing Grants and Research, who may be able to refer students to faculty who are seeking research assistants. KUMC-UMKC COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT PROGRAMKUMC has an agreement with UMKC which allows graduate students in good standing at KUMC to participate in courses of study or research for a minimum of one semester at UMKC. Please see the “Forms” section at the following link for more information: Registrar's Office. Contact the academic advisor, the Registrar's Office or the School of Nursing, Office of Student Affairs for applications and deadlines. Appendix A – School of Nursing Drug Screen ProcedurePurpose This policy is subject to change at the sole discretion of the University and is meant to supplement other relevant policies, including but not limited to: KUMC Drug Screen Policy, KUMC Policy on Prevention of Illegal Drugs and Alcohol Use on Campus and in the Workplace, School of Nursing Impaired Student Assistance Program, School of Nursing Non-Academic Misconduct, and the Kansas Nurse Practice Act, 60-3-110. Policy Graduate:Graduate students undergo UDS prior to participating in clinical observations, practicum observations, rotations or placements. A confirmed positive test may preclude participation in clinical observations, practicum, rotations, placement at certain facilities, and/or lead to dismissal from the University. A student with a confirmed positive test may be referred to the appropriate student assistance program for evaluation and treatment, possible student disciplinary hearing, and proper disposition through the SAPC. All students receive instructions on how and when to complete the pre-admission or pre-clinical/practicum course screening. Students may be required to complete drug testing at multiple points in their academic career depending on affiliated facility requirements. Students are required to have a negative test result prior to proceeding into their first course requiring clinical observations, practicums, rotations or placements. The SON requires UDS of any student entering extenuating clinical, practicum, rotation or placement wherein a participating healthcare facility requires drug screening. This may include students in the following program categories:
Rationale Drug Test Procedure
Handling of Test Results
Resolution Procedure The SAPC Subcommittee will be known as the Drug Screen Committee (DSC). The DSC will review the student case, conduct student meetings and/or hearings as necessary, and recommend
further dispositions to determine a student’s ability to proceed with clinical observations or practicum, or rotations as defined within the pursuit of the program and in accordance within the affiliated healthcare facilities rules and guidelines for alcohol and drug testing processes. All Students prior to participation in a clinical course, observation, practicum, rotation, or placement in the program must:
University Contracted Vendor will submit test results to the Associate Dean, OSA-EM or her designee. The test results are: Negative Negative or Positive Dilute Positive Non-ContactPositive Refused To Participate Associate Dean for OSA-EM or her designee, may apprise the SAPC Chair of a student’s positive test result and any additional information that has been provided from the student. The SAPC Chair will determine:
After review of the student information, DSC Chair or designated member will contact the student via the appropriate University designated communication media (email, permanent, and/or present addresses) to notify the student of the opportunity to enter a student meeting or student hearing. Information in the notification will consist of, but not be limited to:
Student Meeting Selection: If the DSC Chair decides to convene a student meeting, it should be completed within three academic days of the meeting notification, unless extenuating circumstances prevent this occurrence. A student may also elect to enter a student meeting if they agree or offer to automatically have an evaluation, assessment, and subsequent treatment plan that are mutually agreed to with the DSC Chair and/or members. Student will need to sign a “waiver of a student hearing” form. If the student initially agrees to a student meeting, but does not appear, or a mutually agreeable recommendation does not occur within the meeting, the DSC Chair will apprise the DSC of the need to conduct a hearing. The hearing will be necessary if a possibility of a sanction could be applied that may result in a continued educational leave of absence for a designated time for evaluation and treatment that interrupts the academic pursuit, suspension for a period of time, or dismissal from the University. Student Hearing Selection: If all means of acceptable alternatives are exhausted, then a student hearing will commence. The hearing will occur within ten academic days, if possible, of the notification that a positive drug result was received on the student. During the hearing, the student will be allowed to give an explanation for his/her conduct. The student may have an advisor who provides advice and guidance in regard to procedural issues related to the allegation and subsequent hearing. The advisor will have an obligation of confidentiality and may be any faculty member in the School of Nursing, except from the SAPC or DSC. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the faculty member and obtain his/her consent to serve as an advisor. Advisors, at the request of the student they are assisting, will be allowed to attend the hearing and be present during testimony before the DSC. Advisors cannot be present during the DSC discussion and decision. Advisors are not permitted to present testimony at any time during the hearing. The parties will discuss available drug or alcohol counseling and academic consequences. The DSC will decide by majority vote, recommendations for sanctions that will then be provided to the Dean of the School of Nursing. Student agrees to sign a release of information form, if needed, to allow the agency who is conducting the evaluation, assessment, and/or treatment plan to provide recommendations to the DSC. These recommendations may be used to determine re-admission into the student’s designated program. Possible Recommendations and/or Sanctions may occur, but not be limited to:
Additional Resolution Process: Duty to Report: All students receiving positive test results may be reported to their respective state board of nursing and/or assistance program as is appropriate in the specific circumstances. Findings from the hearings will be forwarded to the Dean of the School of Nursing by the SAPC/DSC Chairperson within two academic days after the recommendation(s) have been formulated. Findings will include the DSC's decision of whether or not to uphold the result of positive, non-contact positive, or refusal to test result. The DSC will recommend one or more sanctions to the Dean, who will make a final determination of the sanction(s) to be imposed. Formal written notification of the Dean's decision will be sent to the student from the Office of the Dean within 10 academic days of the student meeting or hearing by certified mail. The Dean’s decision is final and may not be appealed. Reviewed on 04/28/14 Appendix B – Academic Misconduct: School of Nursing Professional Integrity (PROFITS)
RESOURCES/DIAGRAMS Adopted: 4-28-95 Appendix C – Non-Academic Misconduct PolicyStudents and School of Nursing student organizations are expected to conduct themselves as responsible and professional members of the University community. Non-academic misconduct includes any violation of Board of Regents, University, and/or School of Nursing (SON) policy as applicable to School of Nursing students. While on University premises or at University sponsored or supervised events, students and organizations are subject to disciplinary action for violations of published policies, rules, and regulations of the Board of Regents, University, and/or SON, including, but not limited to offenses listed in this policy. The SON non-academic misconduct process is substantially less formal than legal proceedings. Most cases can, and should be, handled informally. The purpose of misconduct procedures is to educate and prepare students for responsible citizenship and to resolve situations that involve violations of Board of Regents, University, and/or SON policies. Any student or student organization conduct that potentially violates the University’s Nondiscrimination or Sexual Harassment Policies or KUMC’s Title IX Policy will be reported to KUMC’s Equal Opportunity Office (EOO) for investigation. A referral to EOO does not prevent the SON from acting prior to the conclusion of an EOO investigation if other misconduct is alleged. For information regarding the adjudication of EOO complaints, see EOO office.
“Academic Days” are days when classes are in session. “Advisor” is a School of Nursing Student Affairs staff member assigned to assist a Reporting Individual or Responding Student in understanding the Non-Academic Misconduct Policy and protocols therein. When the Associate Dean for Student Affairs (ADSA) is the Reporting Individual, a SON faculty member will be assigned as the Responding Individual’s advisor. “Hearing Panel” is comprised of Student Admission and Progression Committee (SAPC) members, excluding the Chair and member who serves as “Investigator” in reviewing an alleged offense. “Investigator” is a SAPC faculty member appointed by the SAPC Chair to review an alleged offense. “Reporting Individual” is the individual reporting an alleged offense. “Responding Student” is a person or organization who is alleged to have violated Board of Regents, University, or SON policy. “Non-Academic Misconduct” involves conduct covered under the policies of the Board of Regents, University, and SON. This definition excludes conduct otherwise covered by the SON definition of academic misconduct. Non-academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to, the following offenses: Offenses Against Persons An offense against a person may be committed when a student:
Offenses Against Property An offense against property may be committed when a student:
Offenses Against the Orderly Process of the University An offense against the orderly process of the University may be committed when:
Other Offenses include, but are not limited to, those listed.
Offenses by a Student Organization or Campus Organization
II. Investigation and Hearing of Suspected Non-academic Misconduct Any behavior described in section I of this policy constitutes an occurrence of suspected misconduct. Every effort will be taken to process reviews as expeditiously as possible by adhering to the time frames established in the following procedures. Occurrences of suspected misconduct will be addressed using the following procedures: Report of Occurrence Any person suspecting misconduct (“Reporting Individual”) should report the incident in question to the SON Associate Dean for Student Affairs (ADSA), either orally or in writing within five academic days from the day of detection. A report may be made by faculty, staff, or students of the SON or any other person witnessing suspected misconduct. The ADSA will inform the Reporting Individual that it may be necessary to disclose his/her name to the Responding Student during the investigation. When a faculty member reports an occurrence, he/she cannot apply sanctions for any suspected occurrence of misconduct prior to exhaustion of the procedures required of this policy. The ADSA will exercise discretion in reporting to the KUMC Title IX Coordinator or Safety Intervention Team and/or proceeding with a SON Non-Academic Misconduct investigation. When the ASDA choose to proceed with SON investigation, s/he will report suspected occurrences to the Student Admission and Progression Committee (SAPC) Chair within three academic daysof receiving a report of occurrence. The SAPC Chair will appoint an Investigator from among the SAPC faculty members and notify the ADSA within three academic days after receiving notice of the report. The SAPC Chair and Investigator will meet with the ADSA within three academic days, and prior to any investigative action, to review policy and required processes. In cases where a patient is involved, identification of the Responding Individual will be revealed to the University or clinical site by the ADSA on a strict need-to-know basis. All data from the investigation and hearings are confidential. Except for the Investigator assigned to collect data related to a reported incident, members of the SAPC will not discuss cases with anyone not connected with the SAPC. During the investigation, the Investigator will maintain confidentiality during all contacts to collect data. Breaches of confidentiality will result in immediate dismissal from the SAPC and possible disciplinary action. Witnesses and Advisors are likewise bound by confidentiality. Investigative Procedures The investigator is charged to speak with the Reporting Individual, the Responding Student, and other individuals who may be directly involved (as warranted). All data gathered by the Investigator will be documented in writing. Confidentiality will be maintained in all cases. During the time of investigation and pending a hearing, the Responding Student is encouraged to continue attending class. Dropping a course does not halt the investigation of alleged misconduct or imposition of a sanction. If the Responding Student fails to respond to the Investigator, the investigation will continue. The Investigator, SAPC Chair, and ADSA will meet as soon as data is gathered and no later than 20 academic days from the initial reporting of suspected occurrence to the ADSA. Based upon the Investigator’s findings, the Investigator, SAPC Chair, and ADSA will determine if a hearing is warranted. If a hearing is not warranted, the ADSA (or SAPC Chair when the ADSA is the Reporting Individual) will notify the Reporting Individual within five academic days that the investigation did not result in a decision to hold a hearing. All documented material related to the investigation will be secured by the ADSA office and remain confidential. If a hearing is warranted, the ADSA (or SAPC Chair when the ADSA is the Reporting Individual) will notify the Responding Student of the decision to proceed with hearing, provide a copy of the Investigator’s report, inform the individual of hearing procedures, and provide contact information for an assigned SON Advisor. The Responding Student may also choose to have an attorney as an additional or sole Advisor. The Responding Individual must inform the ADSA (or SAPC Chair as applicable) of any attorney/advisor’s name at least eight academic days prior to the hearing. The Reporting Individual will be informed that a hearing will be held, given a copy of the Investigator's report, and provided contact information for an assigned SON Advisor. Advisors provide guidance regarding procedural issues relating directly to the allegation, investigation, and any related hearing. The Advisor has an obligation of confidentiality. Advisors are not permitted to present information at any time during the hearing. Advisors can attend the hearing and be present during any presentation of information to Appeals Committees; but are not present during Hearing Panel and/or Appeals Committee discussion and decision. Witnesses The Reporting Individual and Responding Student may ask witnesses to speak during the hearing. Advisors may not serve as witnesses. Witnesses will appear in person and can be asked questions by the Hearing Panel as well as the Reporting Individual or Responding Student (as applicable.) Witnesses will not receive data acquired by the Investigator. Names of witnesses must be presented to the ADSA (or SAPC Chair as applicable) at least eight academic days prior to the hearing. Names of all witnesses will be provided to the hearing members, Reporting Individual, and Responding Student at least six academic days prior to the hearing. Hearing Procedures The hearing will occur prior to any action being taken by the SAPC to recommend sanction. If the Responding Student admits that s/he committed the alleged misconduct, SAPC will be given access to the Investigator's report and the hearing will be held only to determine recommended sanctions. When the Responding Student does not admit misconduct, the hearing proceeds as follows. The Responding Student will appear at the hearing unless s/he waives this right. Without prior notification to the SAPC Chair, failure to report to the hearing will result in the following action:
The Hearing Panel will be comprised of SAPC faculty members, excluding the member who served as the Investigator for the case in question. If any involved party perceives a potential conflict of interest with any member of the SAPC, a specific written declaration of this potential conflict of interest will be presented to the SAPC Chair within two academic days of receiving the list of witnesses. If the SAPC Chair agrees that a potential conflict of interest exists, s/he will appoint a replacement from the appropriate member category (e.g. faculty member of the committee). If any involved party perceives a potential conflict of interest with the SAPC Chair, a specific written declaration of this potential conflict of interest will be presented to the ADSA within two academic days of receiving the list of witnesses. If the ADSA agrees that a potential conflict of interest exists, s/he shall appoint a replacement. The only persons allowed in hearings will be:
The hearing will be recorded by such means as lends itself to completeness, accuracy, and security (e.g., audio and/or video recording). Upon written request, any student found to have engaged in misconduct and subject to an adverse decision of the Hearing Panel may request and obtain a transcription of the proceedings at this/her own expense. The SAPC Chair (or replacement) will preside over the hearing and decide all questions of procedure and conduct of the proceedings. S/he will administer affirmations to witnesses and members of the Hearing Panel and may recess or adjourn the hearing upon request of any Hearing Panel member, participating party, or his/her own motion upon such terms and conditions as s/he deems just. Opening Remarks and Procedural Clarification
Introductions State name, role (Reporting Individual, Advisor, Responding Student, Responding Individual Legal Counsel (as applicable), SAPC member (faculty or student representative, Witness). Affirmations
Procedure
Closure of hearing by the Chair The SAPC Chair makes the following statements:
Private Hearing Panel Deliberation Determination of whether the Responding Student committed the alleged misconduct will be made by secret ballot of the Hearing Panel members. The decision will be based on a simple majority of all present, eligible voting members. The SAPC Chair and Investigator are present for deliberation. The SAPC Chair will not vote except in the event of a tie. The Investigator does not vote. There will be a separate vote by secret ballot on the recommended sanction. When appropriate, more than one sanction may be imposed. The sanction will be determined by a majority vote of the Hearing Panel. The Chair will vote only in the case of a tie. The Investigator does not vote. Sanction options in order of increasing severity for non-academic misconduct are:
"Extenuating circumstances" may be deemed acceptable grounds for deviation by SAPC from these sanctions. Students or organizations who admit to misconduct may appear before SAPC to request a deviation from standard sanctions. Findings from the hearing will be forwarded to the ADSA and Dean of the School of Nursing by the SAPC Chair within two business days after the
recommendation(s) have been formulated. Formal written notification of the Dean's decision will be sent to the Responding Student from the office of the Dean within five business days by certified mail. A copy of the notification will be provided to the ADSA to be included with hearing notes retained for ten years. If the Responding Student is licensed and found to be in violation of this policy, and as applicable, the individual may be reported to the licensing agency and/or state in which s/he is licensed. III. Appeals Appeals of the Dean's decision may be made to the Appeals Committee. The Responding Student may appeal either the finding that non-academic misconduct occurred or may appeal the sanction. The Dean's decision is binding unless the Responding Student files an appeal with the Appeals Committee within 10 business days from the date of the written notification of the Dean's decision. All appeals will be considered as expeditiously as possible after receiving the written request for an appeal. Appeals must be based and sustained on the grounds that the decision of the Hearing Panel was arbitrary and capricious. When filing an appeal, the Responding Student will state with specificity why s/he believes the decision was arbitrary and capricious. The Appeals Committee, consisting of the following members, are appointed by the School of Nursing Steering Committee at the beginning of each academic year.
Members of SAPC, Advisors, and individuals involved in the alleged incident are not eligible to serve on the Appeals Committee. An Appeals hearing will be conducted as follows: Notification to required participants of scheduled Appeals Hearing will occur no more than 10 business days from receipt of the appeal by the Appeals Committee Chair. Prior to the hearing, the Appeals Committee will review records from the original Hearing Panel. Members of the SAPC who will be questioned by the Appeals Committee can review the records and evidence on the original hearing and deliberations before participating in the hearing. The hearing is presided over by the Chair of the Appeals Committee. The Chair decides all questions of procedure, evidence, and conduct of the proceedings. S/he may recess or adjourn the hearing, upon request of any Appeals Committee member, Responding Individual, counselor, or his/her own motion upon such terms and conditions as s/he deems just.
NOTE: When presented by the Responding Student, the relevance of a documented disability will be considered in respect to the conduct or behavior that has precipitated the possible nonacademic misconduct. Revisions – Procedures and policies outlined in this document are subject to change. Implemented 8-97 Revised 3-29-99, 11-26-01, 12-3-07, 12-1-08, 10/01/12, 11/28/12, 06/24/13, 09/28/15, 04/25/16, 04/05/2021 Appendix D – Impaired Student Assistance ProgramFlowchart: Model For Policy on Impaired Nursing Student Assistance Program PHILOSOPHY:
The University of Kansas School of Nursing fully acknowledges the stressors students encounter in their professional and private roles and recognizes the impaired student as one whose substance abuse and misuse will interfere with their ability to function according to accepted academic, professional, or social standards. In addition, substance abuse and misuse may harm patients, their families, and coworkers and be disruptive in the work environment. We support participation in treatment programs that have goals to provide a lifestyle free of substance abuse as an option prior to dismissal from the program. PURPOSE AND COMPONENTS OF THE PROGRAM:
DEFINITIONS: The following terms are used in this policy: “Student/s” for this policy refers to individuals enrolled in any of the School of Nursing courses either at the Medical Center campus or on-line courses. An “Intervention” is carefully planned, and structured. The goal of the intervention is to elicit an agreement that the student will seek professional help for an evaluation of possible chemical dependency (Sullivan et al, 1988). “Evaluation” is determination of whether or not actual alcohol or other drug abuse or dependence is present. If abuse or dependence is found, a determination of appropriate treatment by a professional trained in substance abuse shall be developed and implemented. GUIDELINES FOR A STUDENT ENTERING THE PEER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: See Flowchart
Adopted 1993 Appendix E – Student Grievance ProcedureThe following procedure is available to any student(s), graduate or undergraduate, in the School of Nursing, should a Grievance arise between a student(s) and a faculty member or other person(s) (hereinafter called the involved party or parties) pertinent to the student's program of study. This procedure is NOT to be used by a student(s) seeking resolution of conflicts arising because of academic or non-academic misconduct. NOTE: Issues involving grades in a particular class should be resolved between the faculty for the course and the student(s), and will normally not be considered grounds for grievance. Exceptional circumstances must be evident for grade matters to fall within grounds for a grievance. Should a Grievance exist, it is the student's responsibility to follow the proper sequence in the Grievance Procedure. The student(s) has the right to withdraw the grievance at any point in the process. EXHAUSTION PHASE:
GRIEVANCE PHASE: II. Procedure: Throughout the entire Grievance process both involved parties have procedural guarantees as outlined in Article XIV of the University Senate Code. It is required that all steps be carried out within the prescribed time limits. Failure to do so on the part of the student(s) may negate the Grievance. There are four steps: Step I: The student(s) will submit a typed statement of the Grievance to the Dean of the School of Nursing within five (5) academic days of conclusion of the steps in the Exhaustion Phase. Upon receipt of this statement the Dean will:
Step II: The Chairperson of the Student Admission and Progression Committee may extend this time period for extenuating circumstances only. The Chairperson will initiate communication with the student(s) and involved party(ies) within five
(5) academic days of the time that the Grievance is filed with the Dean to set the hearing date. The Chairperson of the Student Admission and Progression Committee will schedule a meeting of the committee and all involved parties to hear the Grievance. The Student Admission and Progression Committee consists of six (6) faculty members: two (2) of whom are teaching in the undergraduate program; one (1) of whom is teaching in the MS/ DNP programs; one (1) of whom is teaching in the PhD
program; and two (2) of whom are at-large faculty members and three (3) student representatives; one (1) each from the Undergraduate, MS/DNP, and PhD Programs. Membership of this Committee may include a representative from another University department if deemed appropriate to the situation. Substitutes for this committee can be appointed by the Chairperson as deemed necessary for reasons of conflicts of schedule or interest. The meeting will be scheduled no later than fifteen (15) academic days following the Student Admission and Progression Committee's receipt of the Grievance. The Chairperson may seek advice on procedural matters about the Grievance from the Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs and/or university attorney. The process of the hearing will progress as follows:
Step III: The purpose of the Student Admission and Progression Committee is to gather pertinent information in a fair and impartial manner and to recommend to the Dean of the School of Nursing an appropriate course or courses of action. Within three (3) academic days of receipt of the meeting notification from the Chairperson of the Student Admission and Progression Committee, students, and all involved parties will provide the Student Admission and Progression Committee with:
The student(s) and the involved party(ies) will be responsible for notifying their witnesses of the date, time and place of the meeting in which they are to testify. The student(s) and involved party(ies) will be provided a list of the members on the Grievance Committee, and given the opportunity to review all of documentation and the list of witnesses submitted to the Student Admission and Progression Committee prior to the meeting with the committee. In the event that the documentary evidence or the names of witnesses are not available by the deadline, the student(s) and all involved parties will be given time at the beginning of the proceeding to review the material submitted. All involved parties will be invited to be present during the meeting in which the student’s(s’) Grievance is addressed. Witnesses may be present only during the time that their testimony is required. However, the party(ies) against whom the Grievance is filed, is not required to give testimony or evidence and will be so informed at the beginning of the proceeding. The role of the advisor during the hearing process is to support the student(s). This advisor may not question any witnesses or hearing members. The process of the hearing will progress as follows:
Minutes of the proceeding will be recorded. All participants will maintain strict confidentiality of the proceedings and outcome of the entire Grievance process. All records related to the proceedings will be collected by the Chair of the Student Admission and Progression Committee and secured in the Office of Student Affairs for 10 years, after which all documents will be shredded. All photocopied material will be shredded immediately after the hearing (other than that required for archiving). Committee deliberations and final decision will be made in closed session. The vote for the final decision will consist of a simple majority of the voting members. The voting members consist of all committee members except the Chairperson, who may vote in case of a tie. The committee will base all decisions on all of the evidence presented to the committee and known to the student(s) and involved parties. After all evidence has been heard, the Student Admission and Progression Committee will prepare a written summary of the hearing, including the final decision on the Grievance and the recommendation. The Student Admission and Progression Committee will forward the document to the Dean of the School of Nursing within three (3) academic days after completing deliberations. The committee will not convey this decision or the recommendations to the student(s) because the committee's recommendations are only advisory. Step IV: Approved: 3/29/99 Which finding would the nurse expect to observe when assessing dark skin patients?Hyperemia causes a purplish tinge in dark-skinned patients that is difficult to see, so nurses must palpate for increased warmth and inflammation in dark-skinned patients, but light-skinned patients will have bright pink skin in hyperemia.
Which condition would cause a light skinned patient's skin tone to be whitish pink in color?Vitiligo Vitiligo, or leukoderma is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes loss of pigment in the skin, resulting in white or discolored patches.
Which area would the nurse inspect to determine the presence of Koplik spots in a child with suspected measles?Practitioners should be attentive to the oral cavity of any child with symptoms suggestive of the prodrome of measles. Koplik spots are present in more than 70% of patients with measles. Most often, these are described as blue-white specks, 1 mm in diameter at the greatest, superimposed on bright red oral mucosa.
Which finding would be considered normal for a patient's teeth?Teeth should be clean with no decay, white with shiny enamel and smooth surfaces and edges. Adults should have a total of 32 teeth (16 teeth in each arch). By the age of 2+1⁄2, children have a total of 20 deciduous teeth (10 in each arch). Abnormal findings are missing, loose, broken and misaligned teeth.
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