Academic Year 2022 - 2023
Nursing Student Handbook
Traditional, Accelerated, and Advanced Entry Programs
www.ashland.edu/conhs
Dwight Schar College of
Nursing and Health Sciences
ASHLAND UNIVERSITY
MISSION STATEMENT
Ashland University, guided by our Christian heritage, is a comprehensive, private university that
provides a transformative learning experience, shaping graduates who work, serve and lead with
integrity in their local, national, and global communities.
Adopted by the Board of Trustees on January 29, 2016
DWIGHT SCHAR COLLEGE OF NURSING AND HEALTH SCIENCES
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences is to educate individuals to become
health care professionals committed to health-related practice, leadership, and service. The programs
provide undergraduate and graduate education in health science professions. Our guiding values are
integrity, caring, accountability, respect, and excellence. Our vision is to be the premier College of
Nursing and Health Sciences in the Midwest, educating graduates to serve a global and diverse
society.
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Nursing Department is to educate individuals to become nurse leaders committed
to evidence-based practice and service in a diverse and global society. Our innovative nursing
programs embrace the college’s ICARE values (integrity, caring, accountability, respect, and
excellence), interprofessional collaboration, scholarship, and lifelong learning.
The policy and procedures contained within this handbook are guidelines designed for the
students associated with the nursing program. The Nursing Department reserves the right
to change, remove, or supplement as necessary, any material contained in this student
handbook. The electronic version of the handbook is located on the Ashland University
website “academics” page https://www.ashland.edu/administration/office-records-and-
registration/catalogs
The following university documents are also to be used for reference for all other university
issues:
Ashland University Student Handbook
Ashland University Undergraduate Catalog
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BSN PROGRAM
1.1 Conceptual Framework ............................................................................................1
1.2 Assessment and Evaluation ......................................................................................4
1.3 Student Learning Outcomes .....................................................................................4
STUDENT HEALTH AND CLINICAL REQUIREMENTS
2.1 Criminal Background Check ....................................................................................5
2.2 Drug Screen..............................................................................................................5
2.3 Essential Functions for Clinical Course Work .........................................................5
2.4 Health Status Criteria for Students ..........................................................................7
2.5 Required Health Forms and Immunizations ............................................................8
ACADEMIC, PROGRESSION, AND COMPLETION POLICIES
3.1 Absence from Nursing Class, Lab or Clinical Experience ....................................11
3.2 Academic Advising ................................................................................................12
3.3 Action Plan.............................................................................................................12
3.4 Annual Education Development Requirements .....................................................12
3.5 Assessment Technology Institute (ATI) Policies ...................................................13
3.6 Cell Phones/Pagers .................................................................................................13
3.7 Chemical Impairment .............................................................................................13
3.8 Class Cancellation Due to Adverse Weather Conditions ......................................14
3.9 Clinical Evaluation Document Guidelines .............................................................15
3.10 Communicable and Non-Communicable Illnesses ................................................15
3.11 Computer Skills .....................................................................................................16
3.12 Deferment of Selected Pre-Requisites ...................................................................16
3.13 Formal Complaints.................................................................................................17
3.14 Grade Scale ............................................................................................................17
3.15 Graduate Recognition Ceremony ...........................................................................18
3.16 Medication Calculation Practicum .........................................................................18
3.17 NCLEX-RN® Review Course ...............................................................................18
3.18 Notification of Change Regarding Program Policies .............................................19
3.19 Nursing Course Fees and Additional Approximate Expenses ...............................19
3.20 One on One Computer Policy ................................................................................20
3.21 Online Discussion Board Confidentiality ..............................................................22
3.22 Professional Licensure NCLEX-RN® ...................................................................22
3.23 Program Completion ..............................................................................................23
3.24 Progression Requirements
Grade Policies ............................................................................................23
Academic Dismissals .................................................................................24
Withdrawals ...............................................................................................24
3.25 Readmission to the Nursing Program ....................................................................25
3.26 Written Paper Guidelines .......................................................................................27
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 ii
CLINICAL POLICIES
4.1 Attire in Lab and Clinical Settings .........................................................................28
4.2 Clinical Assignments .............................................................................................29
4.3 Clinical Locations ..................................................................................................29
4.4 CPR Certification ...................................................................................................30
4.5 Electronic Medical Records ...................................................................................30
4.6 HIPAA Compliance ...............................................................................................30
4.7 Ohio Board of Nursing Policies Related to Student Conduct ................................31
4.8 Professional Liability Insurance .............................................................................33
4.9 Safe Nursing Practice .............................................................................................33
4.10 Student Clinical Files .............................................................................................33
4.11 Student Incidents Relative to Patients ....................................................................34
SCHOLARSHIPS
5.1 Scholarship Opportunities ......................................................................................35
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND REPRESENTATION
6.1 Dean's Student Advisory Council ..........................................................................36
6.2 Nurses Christian Fellowship ..................................................................................36
6.2 SCRUBS Society ...................................................................................................36
6.3 Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI), Rho Nu Chapter.......................................36
6.4 Student Nurses Association (SNA) ........................................................................37
NURSING PROGRAM FACILITY - MANSFIELD
7.1 Copying/Printing ....................................................................................................38
7.2 Food Service ..........................................................................................................38
7.3 Parking ...................................................................................................................38
7.4 Safety .....................................................................................................................38
7.5 Student Commons and Quiet Study Areas .............................................................38
7.6 Student Lockers......................................................................................................38
DEFINITIONS ...........................................................................................................................39
INDEX ...........................................................................................................................................43
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 1
BSN PROGRAM
1.1 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
The Ashland University baccalaureate nursing program conceptual model is a globe,
representing the global responsibility of professional nursing in a diverse society. The base
of the globe represents the foundation of a liberal arts education, the hallmark of higher
education. As an integrated learning experience, a liberal education promotes critical
thinking and analysis, intellectual inquiry, and exploration of values, ethics, and diversity in
thought.
The meridian arm of the globe, lifelong learning, represents a fundamental concept of
ongoing knowledge development important to professional nurses. Education is a lifelong
process of reflection, intellectual challenge, and practice. The student is responsible for self-
directed learning while drawing from previous knowledge and life experiences to become an
active participant in the collaborative learning environment. Through education, the faculty
endeavor to develop and enhance individual growth, social responsibility, and professional
practice in increasingly complex health care environments. Students and faculty work in
partnership to develop and maintain a shared learning environment that enables students to
reach their potential. Faculty encourage students to develop professional perspectives which
includes practice in diverse settings and implementation of health promotion concepts. Thus,
the education of nursing students is a means of advancing the health of a global and diverse
society. The meridian arm, lifelong learning, lends support to the dynamic concepts located
on the latitudinal (nursing metaparadigm and core values) and longitudinal lines (AACN
Essentials) of the globe.
Core values of the program, Integrity, Caring, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence (I
CARE), along the latitudinal lines, are intentionally built from the foundation of the globe
upwards to the BSN Generalist graduate, indicating the progression of development of these
values throughout the educational program. Additionally, the establishment at the base of the
globe highlights the importance of integrity to the nursing profession.
Central to the globe, the equator, the nursing metaparadigm, defines the importance of these
concepts, Nursing, Person, Health, and Environment, as they relate to nursing practice.
The college faculty embrace these concepts which direct program development and guide the
educational process.
Guided by compassionate caring, Nursing is a profession which practices collaboratively in a
variety of settings, and in a variety of roles to meet patient needs. Nursing can be described
as a discipline with a unique body of knowledge; as a science that expands the body of
knowledge; as an art that transforms; and as a process which addresses the holistic health of
patients. As a profession, nursing is self-regulating in a contractual relationship with society.
Persons are viewed in the context of individuals, families, and communities. Each person
has physical, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual dimensions and is recognized for
their unique experiences, qualities, values, and resources. This recognition leads to
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 2
individualization while encouraging the achievement of mutually identified outcomes.
Health is a multidimensional, dynamic process that is culturally defined, valued, and
practiced by each person, family, and community. All persons have the right and
responsibility to participate in decisions affecting their health and outcomes according to
social justice principles.
Environment consists of internal and external influences. Perspectives on environment are
influenced by the uniqueness of individuals, families, and communities. Environment
extends through the diverse and changing needs of society in the local community as well as
the broader, global society.
The longitudinal lines represent the AACN Essentials which are woven through the
curriculum: Safety and Quality Care, Evidence Based Practice, Technology and Informatics,
Policy and Finance, Communication and Collaboration, Prevention and Population Health,
and Professionalism. These concepts, strategically placed throughout the curriculum, lead to
the development of praxis, where embodiment, practice and enactment of the learned skills
are realized as students’ progress.
The concepts of practice, leadership, and service surround the globe, defining the anticipated
outcomes of the BSN Generalist graduate. The programmatic student learning outcomes
further explicate the expected graduates’ basis for practice.
The Mission of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, consistent with the mission of
Ashland University, is to educate individuals to become professional healthcare providers
committed to practice, leadership, and service.
The College Curriculum Committee developed a nursing conceptual framework that incorporates the philosophy, mission, core values
and AACN’s essentials from The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice (2008). The College
Curriculum Committee voted to approve this Undergraduate Nursing Conceptual Model on February 3, 2010, to be effective May, 2011.
Proposed revision: October 2015. Faculty reaffirmed model 4/4/18.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 3
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1.2 ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION
In striving for academic excellence in nursing education, the nursing program has a
Comprehensive Program Evaluation Plan (CPE) that seeks in part to gather relevant feedback
in reference to curriculum, support services, governance and quality of teaching/clinical
instruction. This ongoing process necessitates occasional surveys and questionnaires, which,
although not a part of the instructional program, are designed to collect the feedback that is
essential to the assessment process. Completion of these surveys and questionnaires, when
part of the college’s assessment plan, are expected of all students, faculty, professional staff
and administration as part of their professional responsibilities. Faculty, teaching assistants,
and preceptors will be evaluated by students at the end of each course, clinical, and
laboratory experience as appropriate for the individual course. Additionally, Department
Chairs will conduct evaluations of faculty and teaching assistants within their departments
according to University policies. These evaluations are for the purpose of (1) assuring the
educator provides pedagogically sound teaching and learning experiences in course, clinical,
and laboratory experiences, and (2) assuring the educator provides experiences that facilitate
student accomplishment of course outcomes.
1.3 STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion of the nursing program, the student will be able to:
1. Synthesize knowledge from nursing and a liberal education as the basis for clinical
judgment, reflective practice, and decision making.
2. Incorporate professional standards in the practice of nursing.
3. Value integrity, caring, accountability, respect and excellence in nursing practice.
4. Collaborate with patients and health professionals to develop and implement
culturally appropriate health promotion, disease prevention, and illness care methods.
5. Select current theory and evidenced-based knowledge to guide and teach individuals,
families, and populations regarding health promotion, and illness prevention.
6. Employ patient care technologies, information systems, and communication devices
that support safe nursing practice and development of nursing knowledge.
7. Demonstrate knowledge of healthcare policy, finance, and regulatory environments
that impact patient care.
8. Incorporate effective communication and collaboration skills to form partnerships to
provide care and to promote positive outcomes to a diverse society in a global
context.
9. Apply leadership concepts, principles of advocacy and decision making in the
provision of quality patient care, healthcare team coordination and accountability for
care delivery in a variety of settings.
10. Collaborate with healthcare professionals to enhance quality improvement and safety
initiatives at individual and systems levels of care.
11. Investigate health-related social justice concerns within legal, ethical, and political
contexts.
12. Value lifelong learning for personal and professional growth to support excellence in
nursing practice.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 5
STUDENT HEALTH AND CLINICAL REQUIREMENTS
2.1 CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK
Criminal background inquiries will take place in the fourth term of enrollment in the
Traditional four-year program, and prior to clinical experiences for Advanced Entry,
Accelerated, and Transfer students. All background checks will be performed by the agency
chosen by the Nursing Department. The Nursing Department reserves the right to dismiss
any student based on the results of the inquiry, regardless of felony or misdemeanor
convictions. A student who has been denied clinical placement by the college based on the
results of a criminal background check may discuss the decision with the Nursing Program
Director, Nursing Department Chair, and/or Dean of the College of Nursing and Health
Sciences.
If an affiliate agency in which a student is seeking assignment requires a more extensive
check than completed, the student must meet that agency’s requirement for placement in that
agency at the student’s expense. Clinical agencies reserve the right to review any
background check and deny student placement.
2.2 DRUG SCREEN
All drug screenings will be performed by the agency chosen by the Nursing Department.
Refusal to meet the drug screen requirement will cause the student to be dismissed from the
Nursing Program. The college reserves the right to dismiss any student based on the results
of the drug screening. A student who has been denied clinical placement by the Nursing
Department based on the results of a drug screen may appeal the decision to the CONHS
dean.
Traditional Nursing Program students will complete the initial drug screening during the
fourth term of enrollment. Accelerated and Advanced Entry Nursing Program students will
complete the initial drug screening prior to the first clinical course. Traditional Nursing
Program students who fail the initial drug screening will be allowed to complete the fourth
term until the results are confirmed by additional laboratory testing. In the event a student
fails the initial drug screening and the additional laboratory testing, the student will be
dismissed from the Nursing Program.
2.3 ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS FOR CLINICAL COURSE WORK
Nursing students must be able to fully perform the essential functions in each of the
following categories: gross motor skills, fine motor skills, physical endurance, physical
strength, mobility, hearing, visual, tactile, smell, reading, arithmetic competence, emotional
stability, analytical thinking, critical thinking skills, interpersonal skills, and communication
skills. However, it is recognized that degrees of ability vary widely among individuals.
Individuals are encouraged to discuss disabilities with the CONHS Dean, Nursing
Department Chair, Program Director, Student Accessibility Center Director, and their lead
faculty, if needed. The University may seek accommodations with clinical sites on behalf of
the student, depending on the disability. The Nursing Department is committed to providing
reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities upon written notice and through
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 6
established Nursing Department policies and procedures. The Program Coordinator may be
required to contact clinical sites, discuss site policy, or identify the site’s contact person to
assist in meeting a student’s needs. A release form is to be completed if this level of
intervention is required on behalf of a student.
• Gross Motor Skills: Students must be able to move within confined spaces, sit and
maintain balance, stand and maintain balance, reach above shoulder (IVs), and reach
below waist (plug-ins).
• Fine Motor Skills: Students must be able to pick up objects with hands, grasp small
objects with hands, write with pen or pencil, key/type (use computer), pinch/pick or
otherwise work with fingers (syringe), twist (turn knobs with hands), and squeeze
with finger (eyedropper).
• Physical Endurance: Students must be able to stand (e.g., at patient side during
procedure), sustain repetitive movements (e.g., CPR) and maintain physical tolerance
(work entire shift).
• Physical Strength: Students must be able to push and pull 25 pounds (position
patient), support 25 pounds of weight (ambulate patient), lift 25 pounds transfer
patient), move light objects up to 10 pounds, move heavy objects weighing from 10
to 50 pounds, defend self against combative patient, carry equipment/supplies, use
upper body strength (e.g., CPR and restrain a patient), and squeeze with hands (fire
extinguisher).
• Mobility: Students must be able to twist, bend, stoop/squat, move quickly, climb
ladders, stools and stairs, and walk.
• Hearing: Students must be able to hear normal speaking level sounds, hear faint
voices, hear faint body sounds (BP), hear in situations not able to see lips (e.g., when
using masks), and hear auditory alarms.
• Visual: Students must be able to see objects up to 20 inches away, see objects up to
20 feet away, see objects more than 20 feet away, use depth perception, use
peripheral vision, distinguish color, and distinguish color intensity.
• Tactile: Students must be able to feel vibrations (pulse), detect temperature, feel
differences in surface characteristics (e.g., skin turgor), feel differences in sizes and
shape (e.g., palpate vein), and detect environmental temperature.
• Smell: Students must be able to detect odors from patients, detect smoke, and detect
gases or noxious smells.
• Reading: Students must be able to read and understand written documents.
• Arithmetic Competence: Students must be able to read and understand columns of
writing (e.g., flow sheets), read digital displays, read graphic printouts (e.g., I & O),
calibrate equipment, convert numbers to/from metric, read graphs (e.g., vital sign
sheets), tell time, measure time (duration), count rates (e.g., pulse rate), use
measuring tools (e.g., thermometer), read measurement marks (e.g., scales), add,
subtract, multiply, divide, and compute fractions (medication dosages), use a
calculator, and write numbers in records.
• Emotional Stability: Students must be able to establish therapeutic boundaries,
provide patients with emotional support, adapt to changing environments/stresses,
deal with the unexpected (e.g., crisis), focus attention on task, monitor own emotions,
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 7
perform multiple responsibilities concurrently, and handle strong emotions (e.g.,
grief/anger).
• Analytical Thinking: Students must be able to transfer knowledge from one situation
to another, process information, evaluate outcomes, problem solve, prioritize tasks,
use long term memory, and use short term memory.
• Critical Thinking Skills: Students must be able to identify cause-effect relationships,
plan/control activities for others, synthesize knowledge and skills, and sequence
information.
• Interpersonal Skills: Students must be able to negotiate interpersonal conflicts,
respect differences in patients, establish rapport with patients, and establish rapport
with co-workers.
• Communication Skills: Students must be able to teach (patient, family), explain
procedures, give oral reports, interact with others, speak on the telephone, influence
people, direct activities of others, and convey information through writing (e.g.,
progress notes).
• It is the responsibility of the nursing student to provide any updated information
regarding changes in the student’s ability to perform the essential functions for
clinical coursework immediately to the Nursing Department. Failure to report
changes in ability to perform the essential functions for clinical coursework may
result in failure/dismissal from the program.
2.4 HEALTH STATUS CRITERIA FOR STUDENTS
The Nursing Department requires that all students enrolled in the Nursing Program possess
the intellectual, physical, and emotional capabilities required to undertake the full curriculum
and to achieve the levels of competence required for safe professional practice. An
individual must possess the emotional and physical health required for full utilization of his
or her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all
responsibilities attendant to patient care, and the development of mature, sensitive, and
effective relationships with patients. Prior to clinical coursework, and/or at the time
designated, required health records are to be uploaded to the electronic tracking system for
the Nursing Department. Records are placed in the student health file maintained by the
Program Coordinator. The student must sign all documents; in the case of a minor, the parent
must also sign. Every student (or parent if minor) will sign a release form giving permission
for health records to be shared with the Student Health Center, if providing services to the
student. The release includes permission to share health records and/or background check
results with clinical agencies to determine clinical eligibility.
In accordance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Ohio law,
Ashland University does not discriminate against any candidate for admission, nor any
student, on the basis of disability, provided that the individual:
• meets the eligibility criteria necessary to complete the full curriculum
at the level of competence required for safe professional practice.
• complies with the basic policies, practices and procedures essential to the
education process.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 8
• does not require the provision of auxiliary communication aids and/or
services which would fundamentally alter the nature of the educational
process or result in undue burden on the Nursing Department.
• does not pose a direct threat to his or her own health or safety, or the health
and safety of others.
Based on the foregoing, the Nursing Department will determine whether modification or
auxiliary aids and service falling within the guidelines of this policy will permit the
individual to undertake the required curriculum and achieve the level of competence required
for safe professional practice with reasonable accommodation. The Nursing Department
reserves the right to withdraw any student for failing to participate, provide proper
documentation, and efforts to conceal any information.
It is the responsibility of the student to provide any updated information to the Nursing
Department that come due during the course of the year, such as updated
Tuberculosis/Tuberculin Skin Test (TB/TST) or Interferon Gamma Release Assay
(IGRA) to the Program Coordinator’s office by the due date. Failure to maintain current
health records will result in prohibition of clinical experiences which could lead to
failure/dismissal from the Nursing Program.
2.5 REQUIRED HEALTH FORMS
Prior to the second term of enrollment in the Traditional Four-year program, or upon
acceptance/deposit for Transfer, Accelerated or Advanced Entry programs, students are
required to complete the required health forms and provide a record of immunizations.
Documentation of the following childhood immunization records is required:
chickenpox/Varicella, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), diphtheria/tetanus/ pertussis (Tdap),
and Hepatitis B vaccinations. Meningitis vaccination is recommended. These records are to
be submitted to the Program Coordinator on the Mansfield campus through the electronic
tracking system.
Students are fully responsible for tracking immunization due dates and obtaining and
submitting immunization records when due. Acceptable health records for immunizations
include copies of a medical record from a healthcare provider/agency with the student name,
immunization given and the date administered. Contact information for the healthcare
provider/agency should be evident. Immunizations are not provided by the Nursing
Department. Students should contact the health care provider of their choice to meet this
requirement. The student assumes full financial responsibility for the cost of required
immunizations or testing.
Proof of health insurance is a requirement for all nursing students. Documentation must be
submitted through the electronic tracking system.
Required Immunizations
• Chicken Pox (Varicella) - Immunity either by a positive Varicella antibody titer or
two doses of the vaccine to demonstrate immunity.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 9
• MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) - If born before 1957, provide documentation
of a history of measles, mumps, rubella or rubeola, a titer or vaccination. Those born
during or after 1957 must also meet this requirement, either by having been
vaccinated with two doses against the three diseases (either as the combined vaccine
MMR or individual vaccination against the three diseases) or show laboratory
evidence of immunity to all three diseases.
• Tetanus / Diphtheria/Pertussis (Tdap) - Completed the primary childhood series of
doses as well as a booster within the last ten years. A booster received more than ten
years ago is considered expired and will need to be repeated.
• Hepatitis B Vaccine – Completion of the series of three vaccinations for Hepatitis B
by the beginning of clinical coursework or at the time designated by the Nursing
Program. Students without verification of vaccine status are required to have an
antibody titer to demonstrate immunity, or receive the vaccination series.
• Influenza Vaccine – Annual vaccination at time designated.
• Meningitis – Recommended, but not required.
• Other –Any agency specific immunizations, as designated by the clinical agency(s).
Tuberculin Skin Test or Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA)
Initially a two-step tuberculin skin test (TST) using purified protein derivative (PPD) or
Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) is required at the designated time. Note: If the
student is a healthcare worker with documentation of negative yearly TST for the last two
consecutive years, then only a one step is required.
Types of Tuberculosis (TB) Testing:
1. Tuberculin Skin Testing (TST)- Mantoux method
a. Initial testing is to be two-step TST | Two-step TB-how it works:
General process source:
http://www.pacificu.edu/sites/default/files/documents/2-
step%20TB%20Testing%20Info2.pdf
Visit 1, Day 1: PPD antigen is applied under the skin
Visit 2, Day 3: PPD test is read (within 48-72 hrs of placement) or the
process will be restarted.
If positive, it indicates past or present exposure to tuberculosis. A chest x-ray
(CXR) and/or IGRA testing will be needed through their provider.
Visit 3, Day 7-21: a second PPD skin test is applied (if the first result was
negative)
Visit 4, 48-72 hours after placement: the second test is read or the process
will be restarted.
A positive 2nd test indicates TB infection in the distant past.
Further evaluation by CXR and/or IGRA testing will be needed through their
provider.
b. If results are negative, a one-step TB to be done annually thereafter.
See Visit 1 and Visit 2 under 1.a. for process.
c. Pregnancy is not a reason to defer TST.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 10
Verification of TST result is to include date placed, date read, and result indicated in
actual millimeter of induration with positive/negative notation. All documentation for
TST or from the healthcare provider’s evaluation must be turned in to the Program
Coordinator’s Office by uploading to the electronic tracking system. This must include
release or clearance to participate in clinicals if further evaluation was required.
Interferon Gamma Release Assays will be required annually thereafter for those
individuals with a positive test skin test result.
2. Interferon Gamma Release Assay (IGRA, blood test) is recommended for: bacille
Calmette-Guerin (BCG) Vaccine recipients or persons with a history of positive
TST that should not have further TSTs placed.
a. Students with an equivocal or indeterminate result for IGRA testing will
have repeat testing done.
i. The time between the first test an d repeat testing will be
determined by the healthcare provider.
ii. If the repeat test result is equivocal or indeterminate, the individual
will be required to seek treatment from their provider and submit
all documentation from the healthcare provider’s
recommendations/treatment decision to the Program Coordinator’s
Office by uploading to the electronic tracking system.
iii. This must include release or clearance to participate in clinicals
b. IGRA testing should not be ordered for 4 to 6 weeks after administration
of live-virus vaccines if it is not drawn the same day as the live vaccine.
c. IGRA testing will be required annually.
d. All results and recommendations of the healthcare provider must be
submitted to the Program Coordinator’s office by uploading to the
electronic tracking system.
*Some clinical partners will require the influenza vaccine into May, if the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention extend the flu season. During peak flu season, some clinical partners require the influenza vaccine
two weeks prior to the clinical experience.
Transfer
Advanced Entry (not
current AU student) &
Accelerated
Hepatitis B
Upon Admission/Deposit
Upon
Admission/Deposit
Meningitis
(Recommended, not required)
Upon Admission/Deposit
Upon
Admission/Deposit
MMR
Upon Admission/Deposit
Upon
Admission/Deposit
Tdap
Upon Admission/Deposit
Upon
Admission/Deposit
Two-Step TST or IGRA
(Annual requirement)
Semester prior to Junior
level courses. One step or
IGRA annually thereafter
Upon
Admission/Deposit
Varicella
Upon Admission/Deposit
Upon
Admission/Deposit
Influenza * (Annual
requirement)
Junior/Senior level, if
during October-April
Junior/Senior level, if
during October-April
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 11
ACADEMIC, PROGRESSION, AND COMPLETION POLICIES
3.1 ABSENCE FROM CLASS, LABORATORY OR CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
Optimal achievement of course outcomes requires student attendance at all assigned learning
experiences, including classes, laboratory and clinical experiences, and observations.
Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes, laboratory and clinical experiences.
It is recognized that an occasional absence due to illness or unusual circumstances is
unavoidable. Excused absences are granted at the discretion of the faculty member involved.
An excused absence is defined as a student not being present for clinical/laboratory or class
experience with prior approval from the appropriate faculty member. Students are required
to make up clinical/laboratory absence(s). More than one excused clinical/laboratory
absence may lead to a grade of “unsatisfactory”. When a class is missed, the factual
information may be recovered, but the benefits derived from class participation are lost.
Students absent from class are responsible for content missed.
Faculty members may require makeup work when in-class assignments are not completed
because of absence. Upon returning to class, the student must contact the involved faculty
member(s) regarding makeup of assignments or other class activities. Assignments and
activities must be made up by the designated time set by that faculty member. A student who
does not complete make-up work within the time designated by the course coordinator or
faculty member will be given a grade of “zero” for that work. Any variance from this policy
is at the discretion of the involved faculty member(s).
The student will assume responsibility for reporting each clinical/laboratory day of absence
before the scheduled time of the assigned clinical experience. Notification must be given to
the appropriate faculty member as directed by the lead faculty member for the course.
Appropriate individuals and clinical site(s) will be notified regarding the student’s absence.
Absence from laboratory and clinical experiences requires a make-up assignment. Clinical
makeup will depend on the availability of the faculty member(s) and clinical facilities.
The student who does not meet the course outcomes due to absence may receive a grade of
“Incomplete”. It is the Nursing Department’s prerogative to determine if the student can
realistically complete course requirements. A plan for make-up of course content and/or
clinical/laboratory experience will be developed by the course faculty member in
consultation with the Nursing Department Chair for successful completion of the course.
Reporting an Illness
An ill or injured student may be sent to an appropriate Emergency Department, to the Student
Health Center, to their residence, to their private healthcare provider, given a referral, or
hospitalized as appropriate. When a student is admitted to the hospital, the Dean will notify
the spouse/parents or guardian if the student requests. Student permission for non-
emergency hospitalization is required.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 12
Students are to report health problems and illness because treatment or advice may prevent
more serious illness. Contact with other students should be limited if the illness is
communicable. Students absent for more than three days from class or clinical must report
the illness to the Program Coordinator and the lead faculty member. Upon the student
returning to class or clinical, the student must present a healthcare provider release form to
the Program Coordinator and lead faculty member.
3.2 ACADEMIC ADVISING
Academic Advising is an essential component of academic success for students. The College
of Nursing and Health Sciences takes this responsibility seriously and asks that students take
responsibility to assure their advising needs are met.
The Nursing Department has an Academic Advisor whose responsibility is to assist students
with aspects of the academic experience including registration, program and degree
requirements and access to university resources during the first two years of enrollment in the
Nursing Program.
Additionally, a faculty advisor is assigned for each nursing student at the beginning of the
third year of enrollment in the Nursing Program. The faculty advisor is a professional
mentor for the student, meets with the student prior to registration to facilitate registration for
courses meeting degree requirements and at other times to assist with interpretation of
policies. However, it is ultimately the student’s responsibility for meeting all stated
requirements for the degree and observing relevant policies.
Student responsibilities in regard to advising:
1. Read and understand the academic policies and procedures in the Traditional,
Accelerated, and Advanced Entry Student Handbook, the Ashland University Student
Handbook, and the Ashland University Catalog.
2. Consult advisor as needed during registration periods for course scheduling and
program or track modifications.
3. Inform advisor of any academic difficulties.
4. Maintain scheduled appointments with advisor and be prepared for advisement
sessions with supporting documentation or materials.
5. Provide advisors with feedback and follow through on advisor recommendations as
needed.
6. Contact academic advisor for mentoring if placed on academic probation.
3.3 ACTION PLAN
The Nursing Department uses an internal communication document referred to as an “Action
Plan” to make a student aware of concern that program expectations are not being met. The
goal of an action plan is to assist the student in successfully meeting program expectations.
Faculty, staff and administrators may place a student on an action plan for concerns related to
not meeting class, laboratory, clinical, handbook or catalog guidelines, policies or
procedures. The action plan will provide direction for corrective action. The action plan will
follow a student throughout the period of enrollment.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 13
3.4 ANNUAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS
Students will be required to complete the following continuing education courses or student
software management platforms on an annual basis:
Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control
Emergency Operations Plan
Clinical Orientation
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
Failure to complete these requirements may result in failure/dismissal.
3.5 ASSESSMENT TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE (ATI) POLICIES
The Ashland University Nursing Program utilizes the Assessment Technology Institute, LLC
Comprehensive Assessment and Review Program (ATI) for ongoing assessment of
Traditional, Accelerated, and Advanced Entry nursing student knowledge.
ATI Distribution:
ATI materials will be distributed at designated times throughout the curriculum.
Online ATI Registration:
Students must register with ATI online to access the ATI virtual learning resources, web
testing, and remediation. The student registers only one time, therefore they should keep their
username and password in a safe secure place throughout the rest of the nursing program.
(Note: Students who share their user information with others are in violation of the
University integrity policy. Should students forget their username or password, they may gain
access by checking with a faculty member or administrative assistant at the Mansfield
campus).
ATI Success Plan:
Students should refer to course syllabi regarding requirements of the ATI Success Plan
policy for each relevant course.
3.6 CELL PHONES
Cell phone use is discouraged in classrooms. Students should turn off cell phones before the
start of class (if a student has a family emergency or is concerned about a family issue, notify
the professor and turn phone on silent). Cell phones and smart watches or other
communication devices are prohibited (in other words, not allowed) during laboratories and
examinations. Some nursing clinical courses may allow cell phones to assist with clinical
work. Cell phone use in clinical is course specific. Consult the nursing course syllabi to
determine whether cell phone use is allowed in clinical and laboratory experiences.
3.7 CHEMICAL IMPAIRMENT
The University and the Nursing Department is committed to providing compassionate and
proactive assistance for chemically impaired or co-dependent students and their families
and to afford students, who are not legally restricted and are no longer chemically
impaired, the opportunity to continue their education without stigma or penalty, and to
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 14
protecting society from harm that impaired students could cause.
The Nursing Department defines chemical impairment as a chronic, progressive illness
which involves the use of alcohol and/or other drugs/chemicals to a degree where it
interferes in the normal functional life of an individual as manifested by health, family,
job, legal, financial and/or emotional problems.
Students may be suspected of improperly using or abusing drugs or alcohol on the basis
of one or more of the following:
• Possession of an illegal substance
• Conviction of a drug-related crime
• Theft of a drug product of abuse potential
• Chemical impairment at school or a school-sponsored function
• Unexplained decrease in class attendance or academic performance that
may be related to chemical substance abuse.
• Concern expressed by a faculty member, staff member, fellow student,
preceptor, other health professional, police authority, or others regarding
possible chemical substance abuse.
• Positive urine drug screen on a routine drug test or required urine screen
for a specific clinical placement site.
If a nursing student is aware that he or she is impaired by substance abuse, he or she has
the responsibility to seek assistance for diagnosis and treatment. Assistance can be
obtained through the University Health Service.
A student suspected of chemical impairment may be confronted by a faculty or staff
member or administrator and referred to the Dean of the College. If the student is
unwilling to seek assistance or go for drug screening upon request at the expense of the
Nursing Department, the student will be dismissed from the Nursing Program. Student
confidentiality will be maintained at all times.
3.8 CLASS CANCELLATION DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS
The Dean of the Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences shall determine the
conditions for class, laboratory, and clinical cancellations based on inclement weather on the
Ashland University Mansfield Campus. Radio announcements of adverse weather
emergency will be made in accordance with University Policy.
All students and Ashland University employees registered with the Campus Shield
notification program will be texted and/or emailed with the cancellation information.
Students taking coursework on other Ashland University campuses will follow announced
cancellation for that campus.
Clinical Cancellations
• If the Mansfield academic building or the agency in which the student has
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 15
clinical closes due to inclement weather, the clinical is also cancelled for that
day.
• Clinical faculty have the discretion to cancel or continue clinical based on the
timing of the closure announcement from AU.
• Students may make a decision to miss a clinical day based on a personal
travel safety choice. The determination regarding make up of this time will
be made by the course faculty member. Students must follow the same
process for informing clinical instructors and course faculty regarding their
absence as has been announced in their course syllabus.
• If students have an observational day or precepted clinical experience, they
may call the faculty of record to determine if it is acceptable to complete the
day. The faculty will be responsible for being available to the student via
appropriate means.
• Clinical assignments will be rescheduled if feasible, as determined by the
faculty member. Students must consult with the appropriate faculty
member(s) for rescheduled clinical dates and times.
3.9 CLINICAL EVALUATION DOCUMENT GUIDELINES
Students enrolled in a clinical nursing course are required to write evaluation comments
weekly. Faculty will provide evaluative feedback on a regular basis. Mid-term and end-term
summaries will be completed by the student and clinical faculty. Written evaluation of the
student's clinical performance (according to predetermined outcomes) will be completed by
the appropriate faculty member with input from the preceptor, if applicable. Student
evaluations and self-evaluations are official records and will be secured and retained
according to policy. Evaluations are confidential. Clinical documents will be graded either
"Satisfactory" or "Unsatisfactory". Mid-term grades may reflect need for improvement.
3.10 COMMUNICABLE AND NON-COMMUNICABLE ILLNESSES
The Nursing Department will maintain an environment that ensures the provision of safe,
quality patient care and is also supportive of the well-being of students. Accordingly,
students are required to report to class, lab, and clinical settings unimpaired by
noncommunicable personal illness or at risk of transmitting a communicable disease, and
will be removed immediately from any situation to ensure patient and/or student safety.
Faculty and students will adhere to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention
Guidelines for work restrictions when exhibiting signs and/or symptoms or for post exposure
follow-up of certain communicable diseases
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6153a1.htm?s_cid=mm6153a1_w
An ill or injured student may be sent to an appropriate Emergency Department, to the Student
Health Center, to their residence, to their private healthcare provider, given a referral, or
hospitalized as appropriate. When a student is admitted to the hospital, the Nursing
Department Chair will notify the spouse/parents or guardian if the student requests. Student
permission for non-emergency hospitalization is required.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 16
The Nursing Department will maintain the confidentiality of all information related to
student health. No specific information concerning diagnosis shall be provided to any
persons including college administrators, faculty, and professional staff other than the Dean
of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences without the expressed written consent of the
student. No information can be released to another person, agency, insurer or institution
without the prior written consent of the student involved.
Contact with other students should be limited if the illness is communicable. Students whose
illness causes absence from class, lab, or clinical must report the illness to the Program
Coordinator and the lead faculty member. Upon the student returning to class, lab or clinical,
the student must present a health care provider release form to the Program Coordinator and
the lead faculty member.
Any student who does not follow policy requirements or mandates may be placed on an
action plan, may receive a course failure, and/or be dismissed from the nursing program
3.11 COMPUTER SKILLS
Recommended skills for online and/or hybrid classes are listed below.
Skills:
The beginning level computer skills listed below are very helpful for student success. If
the student is deficient in these areas, it is recommended that remediation be sought prior
to enrolling (e.g., community education course).
1. Create and save documents using a word processor (e.g., Microsoft Word)
to type assignments.
2. Send and receive email communications.
3. Attach a document (e.g., to an email or course drop box).
4. Exhibit appropriate professionalism toward faculty and students in online
communications (sometimes called netiquette).
5. Maintain confidentiality (e.g., may use “hospital X” to discuss a facility).
Additional skills that students will be expected to develop as they progress may include:
1. Use of pocket cameras (personal or those available for student loan) to
record and post presentations
2. Ability to post and discuss course topics using an online class discussion
forum, wiki, and/or blog
3.12 DEFERMENT OF SELECTED PRE-REQUISITES
Schedule conflicts may make it necessary for a student to request an adjustment in the
expected sequence in which pre-requisite courses and courses in the nursing major are taken.
Students requesting such exceptions should petition the Program Director and/or Dean, or
designee, in writing for consideration of the request.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 17
3.13 FORMAL COMPLAINTS
“Appropriate” complaint definition: A noted dissatisfaction with any application or
interpretation of a work process, policy or procedure at the College of Nursing and Health
Sciences other than academic integrity issues (undergraduate - Ashland University Student
Code of Conduct (See Ashland University Student Handbook)
“Internal Constituents” definition: College of Nursing and Health Sciences students, faculty,
administration and staff; Ashland University community.
“External Constituents” definition: External agencies (including clinical agencies and other
providers of goods and services), prospective students to Ashland University and/or the
College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the general public (including patients served as part
of a clinical experience).
Process:
• Ashland University Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences
students will submit a written complaint, concern or improvement suggestion
using the online reporting link:
https://www.ashland.edu/student-affairs/content/student-complaint-form
• All external constituents will submit a written complaint, concern or
improvement suggestion using the online reporting link:
https://www.ashland.edu/conhs/content/college-nursing-health-sciences-contact-form
3.14 GRADE SCALE
The Nursing Department adheres to the following system of letter grades and quality points.
Grade Percentage Points Quality Points
A 100 - 94 4.00
A- 93 - 90 3.67
B+ 89 - 87 3.33
B 86 - 84 3.00
B- 83 - 80 2.67
C+ 79 - 77 2.33
C 76 - 74 2.00
C- 73 - 70 1.67
D+ 69 - 67 1.33
D 66 - 64 1.00
D- 63 - 60 0.67
F 59 - 0 0.00
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 18
3.15 GRADUATE RECOGNITION CEREMONY
The Graduate Recognition Ceremony held by the Nursing Department is designed to
celebrate the accomplishments of each student upon completion of degree requirements, as
confirmed by the AU registrar's office and College of Nursing and Health Sciences Dean.
Students who attend the ceremony will receive a nursing pin. Graduates are strongly
encouraged to participate.
3.16 MEDICATION CALCULATION PRACTICUM
Accurate medication administration and related treatments is an essential part of nursing.
Students are expected to understand and to accurately determine dosages and administration
rates. To demonstrate this, students are required to pass the medication calculation
practicum in select courses. Students not receiving a satisfactory score will fail the course
they are enrolled in when the practicum is administered.
1. All students will be given the medication calculation practicum during Health
Foundations II (NUR 306) Psych/Mental Health (NUR 310), and Complex Care
(NUR 410). The practicum results will be recorded as a Satisfactory or
Unsatisfactory.
2. Students must achieve a 90% to be Satisfactory.
3. Students who fail to achieve a satisfactory score of 90% (less than 90% will be
unsatisfactory) on the practicum will be given an opportunity to retake a different
version of the practicum at a time designated by lead faculty.
4. Students who fail to achieve a Satisfactory score of 90% on the second practicum
will receive a failing grade in the course.
5. The first practicum will be scheduled outside of class during weeks 2-4 of an 8-week
term, or weeks 10-12 of a 16-week semester. The second attempt practicum will be
scheduled during weeks 7-8 of an 8-week term, or weeks 14-15 of a 16-week
semester. Practicum results will be posted on the Learning Management System after
the lead faculty has reviewed all practicums.
6. Sixty minutes will be allowed for the practicum each time it is given.
7. Students who are unsuccessful will meet with the lead faculty or their designee
within one week after taking the practicum and will review the practicum to begin
remediation. The student will remediate and prepare for the second attempt
practicum. Remediation resources available to students include: Open lab, ATI,
Tutoring, Safe Medicate, and (Blackboard Community may be available).
8. Students who fail to attend the practicum or the repeat practicum at the designated
time will be considered to have failed the practicum and will receive a failing grade
in the course.
9. The academic dismissal policy for pre-licensure track students will be followed.
3.17 NCLEX-RN® REVIEW COURSE
A review course will be required in the final semester prior to graduation for all pre-licensure
students. This NCLEX-RN® review course is to provide students the opportunity to review
core nursing content prior to graduating.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 19
3.18 NOTIFICATION OF CHANGE REGARDING PROGRAM POLICIES
Students will be informed regarding program policy changes in a timely manner. According
to the Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) 4723-5-12 (B) a nursing “program shall not
implement changes to policies for student progression, or requirements for completion of the
program, regarding students enrolled in the program at the time the changes are adopted.”
1. Policies that impact progression or program completion will be approved by the
Nursing Department Admission and Progression Committee and will become part of
the Catalog.
2. Policies regarding progression or program completion are part of the student’s
incoming year of admission/readmission catalog and do not change while the student
is enrolled in the program.
The policy for notifying students regarding program policy changes that do not effect
progression or program completion are part of the Student Handbook and include:
1. Students will be sent email notification by the Nursing Department Chair,
Program Director, Program Coordinator, and/or Dean regarding program policy
changes.
2. Students will have access to the nursing program Student Handbook that is
updated/revised annually on the Ashland University website, Registrar’s page.
3. Students will be required to sign annually that they have read, understand, agree to
abide by the handbook, and are aware of the location of the handbook.
4. This document will be stored in the student clinical file and/or the electronic
tracking system.
3.19 NURSING COURSE FEES
Note: Course fees are billed the term in which the course is taken.
Course Number/Title
Course Fee
NUR 105 Nursing Concepts and Values
$200
NUR 225 Pathophysiology/Pharmacology I
$300
NUR 301 Health Assessment
$300
NUR 304 Health Foundations I
$350
NUR 306 Health Foundations II
$350
NUR 310 Psychiatric Mental Health
$300
NUR 311 Adult Health Concepts: Regulation and Transport
$350
NUR 312 Adult Health Concepts: Protection, Sensation and Mobility
$350
NUR 410 Complex Health Alterations
$300
NUR 420 Community and Global Health
$350
NUR 430 Advanced Simulation
$300
NUR 435 Capstone Preceptorship
$300
NUR 438 Maternal Newborn Health
$350
NUR 440 Pediatric Health
$250
ADDITIONAL APPROXIMATE EXPENSES
Uniforms /Lab Coats $250 CPR $40
Stethoscope $50-$100 Blood Pressure Cuff $80
Laptop $1200 CastleBranch $250
Textbooks, Clinical Travel, Clinical Badge as required
NCLEX
®
Exam application and related costs (state dependent)
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 20
3.20 ONE ON ONE COMPUTING POLICY
The Nursing Department prepares nursing students using the most modern simulation
equipment and by engagement in nursing clinical experiences. Increasingly, the clinical
experiences are facilitated through the use of technology and access to clinical
information is done through mobile computing devices. As such, nursing students
enrolled in clinical coursework who are attending the CONHS are required to have
and use a mobile computing device that has been recently purchased* (The same
device may be used for the duration of the program.
Nursing students are expected to bring a mobile computing device to class and to their
clinical assignment (if designated by a clinical instructor). This device will be a
Windows 10 notebook or laptop with sufficient battery life. Please note that Mac OS
devices, netbooks, and some popular tablet devices including iPads are not suitable or are
not capable of running Microsoft Office applications; therefore, such systems or devices
are not an option for nursing students because of the incompatibility with software the
nursing students will be using.
It is recommended that computers be purchased with a 2-3 year warranty that covers parts
and labor. An insurance policy that covers accidental loss or destruction should be
considered as well. The Ashland University Technical Support Center (TSC) can provide
limited services such as virus scans and other basic troubleshooting, but hardware repairs
and operating system restores are beyond the scope of services provided by the TSC.
Ashland University has partnered with leading manufacturers to offer discounts on high-
quality desktops and laptops for personal use. Students may shop for a system by going
to https://www.ashland.edu/administration/information-technology/purchase-plans
to select a system that meets the requirements and recommendations listed on the table on
the next page. They may also shop their preferred computer reseller for systems that
meet these requirements and recommendations. Tablet computers, including iPads, do
not meet the requirements of this program.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 21
Ashland University
Undergraduate
Computer
Requirements
and Recommendations
Computer
Requ
i
r
e
m
e
nt
A laptop is required for students enrolled in clinical coursework.
RN to BSN and DNP students may have either a mobile
computing device of a desktop computer.
Computer
Re
c
omm
e
nd
e
d
Laptop
Minimum Computer Specifications / Requirements
Operating S
ys
t
e
m
Windows 10
Chrome books, Netbooks, Mac OS devices, and tablets including
iPads are NOT suitable.
Processor
2.4 GHz or higher for laptops
Memory
Laptops - 8GB or more (16 is better)
Storage
250GB
or
more
(traditional or solid state)
Networking
802.11n Wireless and Ethernet LAN
Webcam, M
ic
rophon
e
and Sp
e
ak
e
r
s
Integrated or discrete
Screen Siz
e
10” to 15” recommended
Video
HD graphics card with HDMI, VGA
port and Dual Monitor capability
Integrated or
discrete
Battery Life
Capable of running 6 or more hours between charges
Weight
Under 6 pounds recommended
Carrying Case/Bag
Designed for laptop
Software -
Gen
e
ral
Microsoft Office is free for students to download at office.com
Software -
Coll
e
g
e
Sp
eci
f
ic
To be determined by the College at start of each semester
Optical Dr
ive
(DVD)
Optional
External Monitor
Optional
External K
ey
board
&
Mou
se
Optional
External
Speaker
s
/Headphon
es
Optional
*Options and Accessories – Laptops and MacBook are great devices for mobility, but the small size and light weight
mean that the display, keyboard and mouse are smaller than would be available with a traditional desktop system.
Students may opt to have a larger display and standard keyboard/mouse for use outside of the classroom.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 22
3.21 ONLINE DISCUSSION BOARD CONFIDENTIALITY
All online discussion boards must adhere to current HIPAA regulations as well the Code of
Ethics for Nurses related to confidentiality. Pseudonyms must be used for all persons and/or
institutions/agencies in your postings. Breach of patient or institution/agency confidentiality
will constitute grounds for dismissal from the nursing program. Access is limited to course
faculty and students enrolled in the course. However, occasionally guest speakers or other
College of Nursing and Health Sciences faculty members may access discussion boards for
specific purposes. Students will be notified in advance if this is planned.
3.22 PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE NCLEX-RN®
Application
Pre-licensure students successfully completing degree requirements are eligible to take the
National Council of State Board Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN®) to obtain licensure
as a registered nurse (RN). Students are responsible for filing their own applications to take
the NCLEX-RN® examination. The Nursing Department Chair (or Designee) will inform
senior students of the website for application download. There are two separate applications
to be filed, one with the National Council of State Board of Licensure Examination for
Nursing and the other with the State Board of Nursing in the state where the student plans to
practice. Refer to the NCLEX-RN® exam website on requesting modifications for the
NCLEX-RN® exam.
Criminal Background Check
As of April 2002, The Ohio Board of Nursing has the authority to refuse to grant licensure to
applicants with any of the felony convictions specified in the law. The law requires a
criminal background check for new applicants for licensure in Ohio who entered a pre-
licensure nursing education program on or after June 1, 2003.
Candidates who wish to sit for the NCLEX-RN® examination will be required to submit
their fingerprints to the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I) for
processing. Results are to be sent directly to the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN) or other
designated agency.
Licensure and Felony/Misdemeanor Infractions
If any student has pled guilty to, been convicted of, or been found judicially guilty of any
felony or misdemeanor, he/she may experience some difficulty in obtaining permission to
take the licensure examination. These infractions are described in the State of Ohio Board of
Nursing Code of Regulations. Questions should be directed to the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Additional details can be found at: http://www.nursing.ohio.gov/
Requests for Modifications for the NCLEX-RN® Examination
For candidates with disabilities as defined by the “American Disabilities Act” (ADA),
accommodations are made only by authorization of the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN) and
the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). The OBN recommends that the
applicant notify the OBN, in writing, six months prior to program completion.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 23
The applicant is required to submit the following documentation:
1. Letter from the applicant specifying requested accommodations.
2. Letter from the Director/Designee of the nursing education program
specifying accommodations granted by the Nursing Program.
3. Diagnostic report from appropriate professional practitioner.
Questions should be directed to the Ohio Board of Nursing and to the Student Accessibility
Center at Ashland University.
3.23 PROGRAM COMPLETION
Students in the Traditional, Accelerated, and Advanced Entry Nursing Programs, must
complete their program of study within six years of the date of the first matriculation. An
approved absence does not count toward the six year total. Students who withdraw and are
later readmitted will be granted one readmission to the program. After this readmission, the
student will be required to complete the program in consecutive terms that, including the
amount of time previously enrolled in the program, may not exceed a total of six years.
Students who are unable to progress with their admission cohort for any reason will progress
in coursework based on course availability. The Academic Advisor will establish where the
student will begin their revised plan based on course availability.
3.24 PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS
Grade Policy: Pre-licensure Students
Grading Standard – Required Nursing Courses
Course grades will not be rounded for clinical and non-clinical courses. All clinical and non-
clinical courses must have quality points of a 2.0 or higher to meet graduation requirements.
If the course grade is below a “C” (74%), the grade assigned to the course will not be higher
than a “D+”. To meet graduation requirements, for any repeated nursing course, the repeated
course must be above a 2.0 on the second attempt (refer to Dismissal Policy).
To be successful in the class, students must achieve an overall averaged minimum of “C”
(74%) on objective examinations in all nursing courses except the following:
NUR 105 - Nursing Concepts and Values
NUR 225 – Pathophysiology/Pharmacology I
NUR 226 – Pathophysiology/Pharmacology II
NUR 336 – Genetics in Nursing and Health Care
NUR 425 - Trends and Issues in Global Health
NUR 430 - Advanced Simulation
NUR 435 - Capstone Preceptorship
NUR 460 - Theoretical Foundations in Health Research
Other assignments will be averaged into the course grade for final grade determination if
the grade on objective examinations meets the minimum of “C" (74%).
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 24
Grading Standard - Clinical Nursing Courses
Clinical/laboratory grades are stated as “Satisfactory” or “Unsatisfactory”. Satisfactory means
that the student has achieved a level of performance demonstrating that he/she has met the
objectives. Unsatisfactory means that the student has failed to demonstrate minimally
acceptable behaviors and/or did not meet required clinical/laboratory outcomes. If at any time
the student is deemed by faculty to be unsatisfactory, the student will not be permitted to
drop the course and the grade assigned may not be higher than a "D+". If the student has a
lower grade in the didactic portion of the course at the time of clinical/laboratory failure, the
grade earned will be assigned.
Grading Standard - Required Non-Nursing Courses
Quality points less than a 2.0 in Anatomy & Physiology I (BIO 222), Anatomy & Physiology
II (BIO 223), Microbiology (BIO 240), Molecular Architecture (CHEM 251), or Chemical
Perspectives on Life (CHEM 253) do not meet graduation requirements and the course must
be repeated. The repeated course must be above a 2.0 on the second attempt or the student
will be dismissed from the nursing program. Quality points of less than 2.0 (C-) in two
required sciences courses will result in dismissal from the nursing program (refer to
Dismissal policy).
Quality points less than a 2.0 in Elementary Statistics (MATH 208), Developmental
Psychology (PSYC 209), Human Nutrition (DIET 320), or Ethics (PHIL 215) do not meet
graduation requirements and the course must be repeated.
Academic Dismissals
A grade of "C-" or below in a nursing course is considered an unacceptable academic
standard in the Nursing Program. Students who receive a "C-" or below in a nursing course
may remain in the program but will be required to retake that course again as soon as
possible.
Pre-licensure students who receive a grade of "C-" or below in two nursing courses will be
automatically dismissed from the Nursing Program, but not from Ashland University. Pre-
licensure students who receive a grade of "C-" or below in two required science courses will
be automatically dismissed from the Nursing Program, but not from Ashland University.
They must wait one calendar year before reapplying to the Nursing Program and must follow
the general readmission procedures in the Student Handbook. These students will be
considered for readmission on a case by case basis by the Nursing Department Admission
and Progression Committee. A student who is academically dismissed from the Nursing
Program may continue to take courses that satisfy their AU institutional degree requirements
while awaiting readmission determination to the nursing program. They may also choose to
pursue another course of study.
Withdrawals
Pre-licensure students who do not register for nursing coursework within two academic terms
(fall/spring) will be administratively withdrawn from the Nursing Program so that another
student may be placed in that spot. They must wait one calendar year before reapplying to the
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 25
Nursing Program and must follow the readmission procedures listed below. This student may
also be tested for safety in a clinical setting before being readmitted. These students are free
to continue taking courses to satisfy their AU degree requirements while awaiting
readmission to the Nursing Program.
Students who voluntarily withdraw from the Nursing Program may reapply for admission
without waiting one full calendar year and will be considered on a case by case basis.
Readmission to the nursing program is possible with the following guidelines:
• Students may continue to take AU core requirements while they await readmission.
• A withdrawal of up to two semesters is available for students who need to leave the
Nursing Program for personal reasons but intend to return to the Nursing Program
(i.e. medical or family problem); however, permission for this must be granted by the
Nursing Department Admission and Progression Committee.
3.25 READMISSION TO THE NURSING PROGRAM
General Readmission Requirements
The Nursing Department Admission and Progression Committee will determine if a student
will be readmitted to the Nursing Program. Students may be readmitted to the Nursing
Program no more than one time. Students with two nursing (NUR) course failures prior to
the 400 level courses will not be readmitted to the Nursing Program. Students with two non-
nursing required science course failures (BIO 222, BIO 223, BIO 240, CHEM 251, and
CHEM 253) will not be considered for readmission to the Nursing Program. If a student
continues to take classes at AU while not enrolled in the Nursing Program, they will be
subject to the core course requirements of their original AU Catalog. However, they will be
subject to the nursing program requirements and policies in the AU Catalog and Nursing
Student Handbook at the time of readmission to the Nursing Program.
Readmission Process:
1. Contact the Office of Records and Registration to notify the college of potential
readmission at least 3 months prior to the semester the student is applying
.
2. Submit a letter of intent to the Office of Records and Registration and to the Nursing
Department Chair stating the desire for readmission, including additional education
that has occurred since applicant’s last classes at AU.
3.
The
Nursing Department Admission and Progression
Committee will review
the student’s letter of intent, transcripts and any other written material or
letters submitted by the student in the readmission decision.
4.
The readmission decision will include requirements to determine
appropriate course placement including but not limited to skills testing,
ATI testing, and/or medication calculation practicums. Course placement
will be determined by the committee in conjunction with the program
director.
5. Final course recommendations will be sent to the registrar’s office. The
registrar will enroll the student in the required courses the student’s first
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 26
readmitted semester in the Nursing Program.
Readmission Criteria:
The following will be used in making a readmission decision:
1. Applicant’s stated reason for requesting readmission.
2. Past academic performance and any work completed while absent is evaluated to
determine potential for success and/or placement.
3. Applicant’s ability to complete the program within the 6-year requirement.
4. Space availability in the appropriate courses.
5. The following items will be considered prior to readmission, for students who have a
second course failure during the 400 level coursework:
a. Successful completion of Head to Toe assessment practicum;
b. Successful completion of at least one Medication Calculation Practicum
dependent upon the student’s placement in the program;
c. Successful completion of the IV piggy back and/or IV push practicum;
d. Successful completion of the indwelling urinary catheter sterile skill
practicum; and
e. Completion of the following:
i. ATI practice tests and achieve at least a 90%
ii. ATI Targeted Medical-Surgical Body System quizzes and achieve at
least a 90%; and
iii. ATI proctored examinations achieving minimally a Level 1 (Level II
is preferred).
iv. ATI practice and proctored tests may include RN Pharmacology, RN
Fundamentals, RN Mental Health, RN Adult Medical-Surgical, RN
Nursing Care of Children, RN Maternal Newborn, RN Community
Health, and RN Leadership.
Based on the outcomes of these assessments, the student may be readmitted, may be
denied readmission, or may be required to audit or retake for credit select courses
dependent on the student’s placement in the program.
Readmission Progression Requirements:
1. The admission decision applies to the upcoming semester and cannot be deferred.
2. Applicants must repeat or audit course (even if passed) when the Nursing Department
Admission and Progression Committee deems necessary.
3. Readmitted students must follow the progression/grade requirements.
4. Readmitted students will enter on probation and be assessed at the end of the first
term.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 27
3.26 WRITTEN PAPER GUIDELINES
Papers and manuscripts submitted for nursing program courses must be prepared according
to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA), most current
edition. The Publication Manual of the APA provides a uniform and reasonably simple
method of format and style to be used when writing scholarly papers. Originally designed by
APA for papers submitted for publication in its journal, the APA style has become the
accepted method for writing papers.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 28
4. CLINICAL POLICIES
4.1 ATTIRE IN CLINICAL SETTINGS
Students are to present an appropriate professional appearance in laboratory and clinical
settings. Faculty will determine appropriateness in accordance with the following policy to
assure nursing students convey a positive and professional image through dress and actions:
Students are responsible for purchase of uniforms and lab coats prior to the start of clinical
coursework. Students in the Accelerated or Advanced Entry track are to purchase these items
on admission. Students may contact the Bookstore with questions in regard to uniforms and
lab coats. An AU College of Nursing and Health Sciences patch is to be sewn on the
uniform and lab coat.
Laboratory and Clinical Settings
• Clothing must be clean and neatly pressed and appropriate for the setting. The style
of clothing must not be revealing (i.e. undergarments must not be visible).
• Required attire for clinical experiences is the complete uniform unless otherwise
indicated. The uniform is not to be worn on the street, or in public places, unless
fulfilling professional student responsibilities. For other sites/ experiences guidelines
from the faculty member should be followed.
• Women: Nursing Department approved uniform, white socks/stockings, plain white
shoes (no canvas shoes), and ID badge.
• Men: Nursing Department approved uniform, white shoes and socks, and ID badge.
• Chewing gum is not permitted while at clinical.
• For visiting clinical areas in preparation for clinical assignments: Nursing
Department approved uniform or lab coats over dresses, pantsuits, dress slacks or
skirts, and blouses or shirts. No jeans, shorts, sweatpants, capri's, or revealing
shirts/blouses are permitted.
• When wearing street clothes as attire for a clinical experience, students are to
maintain a professional appearance. No jeans, halter tops, short shorts, sweatpants, or
revealing shirts/blouses are permitted.
• Students are to wear their ID badge above their waist at all times during clinical
experiences. No stickers, pins, etc. are to be placed on the picture ID badge.
• Clothing shall be loose enough to allow freedom of activity in the performance of all
clinical activities. White laboratory coats may be worn with uniforms. A long-sleeve
white shirt may be worn under the uniform top during cooler months. No writing or
pictures should show through the uniform.
• Hair must be combed and neatly trimmed or arranged. Unkempt hair is not
permissible regardless of length. A hairstyle must not create a safety or health hazard.
Hair longer than shoulder length must be pulled back and secured unobtrusively
above the collar. Beards, mustaches, and sideburns must be neatly trimmed. Nails
should be fingertip length (artificial nails are prohibited) and well groomed. No nail
polish is permitted. Extreme hairstyles, including extreme artificial colors, are not
permitted.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 29
• Earrings are limited to one earring per ear lobe. Small post earrings are permitted.
Rings are discouraged due to the potential for patient injury and for promoting
infection. Plain wedding bands and engagement rings are acceptable in most areas.
Necklaces and other jewelry are not permitted. No other visible body piercing
jewelry is permitted, including tongue piercing. Tattoos must be inconspicuous or
covered.
• Personal hygiene/grooming are important to professional appearance. When makeup
is worn, it must be applied conservatively. Perfume, cologne, after-shave, etc., may
be irritating to patients, especially those with respiratory conditions. They must not
be used.
• While working as an employee at any agency, neither the uniform nor the lab coat is
to be worn.
• Visiting in hospitals: Students must wear street clothes when visiting friends and
family in any healthcare setting.
• Agency policy related to dress code must be followed.
4.2 CLINICAL ASSIGNMENTS
Faculty will determine clinical placements for students in the Traditional, Advanced Entry,
and Accelerated programs. Appropriate assignments are made for the student’s level. Pre
and post clinical conferences are utilized to assist the student in providing individualized
quality care. Clinical preparation must be completed according to the guidelines for the
experience; failure to do so may result in dismissal from the clinical experience with required
make-up. Written preparation, as assigned, must indicate adequate and appropriate study to
be deemed satisfactory. The student may be required to correct and resubmit assignments.
Students are permitted observational experiences as arranged by a faculty member.
Refusal of Clinical Assignments
Nurses provide service with respect for human dignity and the uniqueness of the patient
unrestricted by considerations of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature
of health problems. Refusing to care for any patient will result in appropriate disciplinary
action which may include failure/dismissal.
4.3 CLINICAL LOCATIONS
Clinical experiences prepare students for nursing practice in diverse settings. Such
experiences occur in acute care facilities, community agencies, and long-term care
throughout Ohio. Students participating in clinical experiences are responsible for
providing their own transportation to and from the clinical site.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 30
4.4 CPR CERTIFICATION
All students enrolled in clinical coursework must be certified in American Heart Association
(AHA) cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The required course is the AHA Basic Life
Support for Healthcare Providers and is renewed every two years according to the expiration
date found on the card issued to students. Students in the Traditional 4-year program must
obtain CPR certification in the 4
th
term of enrollment. Students in the Accelerated or
Advanced Entry program must have CPR certification on admission to the Nursing Program.
It is the student’s responsibility to provide a current certification copy to the Program
Coordinator’s office by the date due. Failure to maintain current certification will result in
prohibition of clinical experiences which could lead to failure/dismissal from the Nursing
Program.
4.5 ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORDS
The student will follow clinical agency policy and procedures regarding electronic medical
records, and may be required to complete an orientation session. This includes, but is not
limited to, electronic signature, information system release form, confidentiality form, and
access codes. A student is to adhere to HIPAA regulations when utilizing electronic medical
records. Failure to follow clinical agency policy and procedures regarding the EMR may
result in failure/dismissal.
4.6 HIPAA COMPLIANCE
In compliance with Federal law on the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
of 1996 (HIPAA), all students enrolled in a course requiring engagement in a health care
setting are required to complete HIPAA training prior to the start of the course and every
year following initial training. This Act was instituted to provide health insurance portability
for individuals, to protect the privacy and security of patient health information, and to
eradicate fraud and abuse and applies to all healthcare providers.
Breach of patient confidentiality will constitute grounds for dismissal from the Nursing
Program and re-admittance will not be considered. Students are required to adhere to the
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in all situations including, but
not limited to: case discussion, consultation, examination and treatment. Confidentiality
may be overridden when the life or safety of the patient, an innocent third party, or the public
as a whole is endangered.
A HIPAA training module is available online in the online learning platform.
Students who have completed HIPAA training elsewhere within the past year may submit
evidence of this training in lieu of completing the Nursing Department’s HIPAA program.
Students must submit evidence of HIPAA training to the Program Coordinator prior to
enrollment of a course requiring engagement in a health care setting and upon retraining.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 31
4.7 OHIO BOARD OF NURSING POLICY RELATED TO
STUDENT CONDUCT (Ohio Board of Nursing Nurse Practice Act, n.d.)
This policy is related to student conduct while providing nursing care. It incorporates the
standards for safe nursing care set forth in Chapter 4723 of the Ohio Revised Code and
the rules adopted under that chapter. It includes, but is not limited to the following:
1. A student shall, in a complete, accurate, and timely manner, report and document
nursing assessments or observations, the care provided by the student for the
patient, and the patient’s response to that care.
2. A student shall, in an accurate and timely manner, report to the appropriate
practitioner errors in or deviations from the current valid order.
3. A student shall not falsify any patient record or any other document prepared or
utilized in the course of, or in conjunction with, nursing practice. This includes,
but is not limited to, case management documents or reports, time records or
reports, and other documents related to billing for nursing services.
4. A student shall implement measures to promote a safe environment for each
patient.
5. A student shall delineate, establish, and maintain professional boundaries with
each patient.
6. At all times when a student is providing direct nursing care to a patient the student
shall: (a) Provide privacy during examination or treatment and in the care of
personal or bodily needs; and (b) Treat each patient with courtesy, respect, and
with full recognition of dignity and individuality.
7. A student shall practice within the appropriate scope of practice as set forth in
division (B) of section 4723.01 and division (B)(20) of section 4723.28 of the
Revised Code for a registered nurse, and division (F) of section 4723.01 and
division (B)(21) of section 4723.28 of the Revised Code for a practical nurse;
8. A student shall use universal and standard precautions established by Chapter
4723-20 of the Administrative Code;
9. A student shall not: (a) Engage in behavior that causes or may cause physical,
verbal, mental, or emotional abuse to a patient; (b) Engage in behavior toward a
patient that may reasonably be interpreted as physical, verbal, mental, or
emotional abuse.
10. A student shall not misappropriate a patient’s property or: (a) Engage in behavior
to seek or obtain personal gain at the patient’s expense; (b) Engage in behavior
that may reasonably be interpreted as behavior to seek or obtain personal gain at
the patient’s expense; (c) Engage in behavior that constitutes inappropriate
involvement in the patient’s personal relationships; or (d) Engage in behavior that
may reasonable be interpreted as inappropriate involvement in the patient’s
personal relationships.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 32
For the purpose of this paragraph, the patient is always presumed incapable of giving
free, full, or informed consent to the behaviors by the student set forth in this
paragraph.
11. A student shall not: (a) Engage in sexual conduct with a patient; (b) Engage in
conduct in the course of practice that may reasonably be interpreted as sexual; (c)
Engage in any verbal behavior that is seductive or sexually demeaning to a
patient; (d) Engage in verbal behavior that may reasonably be interpreted as
seductive, or sexually demeaning to a patient.
For the purpose of this paragraph, the patient is always presumed incapable of giving
free, full, or informed consent to sexual activity with the student.
12. A student shall not, regardless of whether the contact or verbal behavior is
consensual, engage with a patient other than the spouse of the student in any of
the following: (a) Sexual contact, as defined in section 2907.01 of the Revised
Code; (b) Verbal behavior that is sexually demeaning to the patient or may be
reasonably interpreted by the patient as sexually demeaning.
13. A student shall not self-administer or otherwise take into the body any dangerous
drug, as defined in section 4729.01 of the Revised Code, in any way not in
accordance with a legal, valid prescription issued for the student, or self-administer
or otherwise take into the body any drug that is a schedule I controlled substance.
14. A student shall not habitually or excessively use controlled substances, other habit-
forming drugs, or alcohol or other chemical substances to an extent that impairs
ability to practice.
15. A student shall not have impairment of the ability to practice according to acceptable
and prevailing standards of safe nursing care because of the use of drugs, alcohol, or
other chemical substances.
16. A student shall not have impairment of the ability to practice according to acceptable
and prevailing standards of safe nursing care because of a physical or mental
disability.
17. A student shall not assault or cause harm to a patient or deprive a patient of the
means to summon assistance.
18. A student shall not misappropriate or attempt to misappropriate money or anything of
value by intentional misrepresentation or material deception in the course of practice.
19. A student shall not have been adjudicated by a probate court of being mentally ill or
mentally incompetent, unless restored to competency by the court.
20. A student shall not aid and abet a person in that person's practice of nursing without a
license, practice as a dialysis technician without a certificate issued by the board, or
administration of medications as a medication aide without a certificate issued by the
board.
21. A student shall not prescribe any drug or device to perform or induce an abortion, or
otherwise perform or induce an abortion.
22. A student shall not assist suicide as defined in section 3795.01 of the Revised Code.
23. A student shall not submit or cause to be submitted any false, misleading or deceptive
statements, information, or document to the nursing program, its administrators,
faculty, teaching assistants, preceptors, or to the board.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 33
24. A student shall maintain the confidentiality of patient information. The student shall
communicate patient information with other members of the health care team for
health care purposes only, shall access patient information only for purposes of
patient care or for otherwise fulfilling the student's assigned clinical responsibilities,
and shall not disseminate patient information for purposes other than patient care or
for otherwise fulfilling the student's assigned clinical responsibilities through social
media, texting, emailing or any other form of communication.
25. To the maximum extent feasible, identifiable patient health care information shall not
be disclosed by a student unless the patient has consented to the disclosure of
identifiable patient health care information. A student shall report individually
identifiable patient information without written consent in limited circumstances only
and in accordance with an authorized law, rule, or other recognized legal authority.
26. For purposes of paragraphs (C)(5), (C)(6), (C)(9), (C)(10), (C)(11),and (C)(12) a
student shall not use social media, texting, emailing, or other forms of
communication with, or about a patient, for non-health care purposes or for purposes
other than fulfilling the student's assigned clinical responsibilities.
Violation of the OBN policy related to student conduct may result in failure/dismissal.
4.8 PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
All nursing students while acting as a student nurse as part of their educational requirements
with Ashland University Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences are provided
professional liability insurance in the amount of $1,000,000/$5,000,000.
4.9 SAFE NURSING PRACTICE
Students are taught principles and techniques for providing safe patient care. Not being
prepared and/or the inability to perform safe nursing care may necessitate dismissal from
clinical and/or lab constituting a clinical and/or lab absence. Clinical and/or lab instructors
are authorized to evaluate whether the nursing care given is safe and reserve the right to
remove from clinical or lab experience any student who demonstrates unsafe nursing
practice, including lack of professionalism or when clinical and/or lab expectations are not
being met. Students may be asked to remediate specific skills when removed from clinical or
lab experiences.
Other action may be taken, including an action plan, course clinical failure, lab failure or
ultimate dismissal from the Nursing Program. Students have the right to follow the Ashland
University grade appeal policy.
4.10 STUDENT CLINICAL FILES
Student clinical files are considered confidential and are maintained as such. Students may
request to view their files. This request will be forwarded to the Department Chair who will
arrange for the file to be reviewed when a faculty member is able to be present. Student files
will remain at all times within the Nursing Program office of the Nursing Department.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 34
4.11 STUDENT INCIDENTS RELATIVE TO PATIENTS
When an incident takes place, the appropriate form(s) must be completed. This may
include a form from the agency where the incident occurred. It will ALWAYS include
the completion of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences Incident Report (available
from the faculty member) and the Ashland University Occurrence Report if the individual
is involved in a real or potential injury/illness while working on Ashland University’s
payroll at the time of injury/illness.
Agency Designated Report of an Incident:
In accordance with agency policy in which the student has a clinical experience, the student
may be required to complete an agency designated report(s) of an incident. The agency
designated report is used to record any incident involving a patient, visitor, personnel,
student, faculty or property. (The designated agency report is often referred to as a quality
assurance report by health care agencies). Whoever discovers the problem (including a
student) is to document the problem. A student completing this form should do so only with
the supervision of the faculty member. In the event someone detects an incident involving a
student and an agency designated report is filed, the agency is to notify the faculty member
who will complete a College of Nursing and Health Sciences Incident Reporting form. A
copy of the Agency Designated Report and a copy the College of Nursing and Health
Sciences Incident Reporting form are to be sent to the Nursing Chair, Program Coordinator,
and the Dean’s Office by the faculty member within 24 hours of the incident.
College of Nursing and Health Sciences Incident Reporting
In accordance with College of Nursing and Health Sciences policy, an Incident Reporting
form will be completed by the student with the assistance of the faculty member. A copy of
the completed College of Nursing and Health Sciences Incident Reporting form is to be sent
to the Nursing Chair, Program Coordinator, and the Dean’s Office by the faculty member
within 24 hours of the incident. The completed form will be forwarded to other appropriate
College of Nursing and Health Science parties as deemed appropriate by the Nursing Chair.
This form is not part of the student’s permanent record and remains on file in the designated
Program Coordinator’s office for a minimum of seven years after the student leaves the
College of Nursing and Health Sciences.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 35
5. SCHOLARSHIPS
5.1 Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship monies specific to the nursing major are available to qualified students.
Interested applicants should review the requirements for each available scholarship on the
Ashland University Financial Aid webpage located at the Ashland University website
(www.ashland.edu). Choose Financial Aid, Current or Future Student, Grants and
Scholarship.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 36
6. STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND REPRESENTATION
6.1 Dean's Student Advisory Council
The Council will be a representative group of students from all programs and levels of
students. The purpose of the group is to promote the I CARE values among students, to
discuss academic improvement strategies for the college, and to develop professional
leadership skills.
6.2 Nurses Christian Fellowship
Nurse's Christian Fellowship is a branch of the national association. It is a professional
organization and a ministry for nurses and nursing students. Its mission is to encourage
students and nurses to bring God's love and healing to nursing and healthcare both locally
and internationally. It is a ministry of Intervarsity Christian Fellowship.
6.3 OASIS – Overcoming Adversity, Serving and Integrating Stories
The mission of OASIS is to foster awareness, education and action in regards to how
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) negatively impact an individual’s health and well-
being. Students involved in this organization will learn skills in the following areas:
resilience, mindfulness, stress, motivational interviewing, compassion, collaboration, and
sensitivity.
6.4 Sigma Theta Tau International, Honors Society of Nursing (STTI)
Rho Nu-at-Large is the Ashland University chapter of STTI. STTI was founded in 1922 at
Indiana University and today is a global organization with almost 500 chapters on college
campuses in 13 countries. Global members are linked by a common vision that participation
in a community of nurses committed to the application of knowledge, leadership, and service
will improve the health of people worldwide. The Ashland University chapter honors
students majoring in nursing who have demonstrated superior achievement and leadership
qualities. Membership is by invitation, based on criteria set in the STTI bylaws. Students
who have completed half of the major requirements are eligible for membership by ranking
in the top 35% of those in the class who have earned a minimum 3.0 GPA in Ashland
University courses. Community nurse leaders whose nursing practice reflects the values of
the honor society are also inducted. Rho Nu-at-Large was chartered in 2001, and re-chartered
to establish partnerships with other colleges of nursing in 2009 (Med Central) and 2013
(Mount Vernon Nazarene University).
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 37
6.5 Student Nurses Association (SNA)
The Student Nurses Association (SNA) is the local branch of the National Student Nurses
Association (NSNA). The mission of the NSNA is to organize, represent, and mentor
students preparing for initial licensure as registered nurses; to promote development of skills
that students will need as responsible and accountable members of the nursing profession and
to advocate for high quality health care. Advantages of belonging to NSNA include
educational programs, community projects, attending conventions, scholarship opportunities,
and networking with future leaders in nursing. The skills students gain by working in a
student professional organization are invaluable. All students are encouraged to attend an
informational session about opportunities of AU-SNA, ONSA, and NSNA. For further
information contact the faculty advisor(s) for AU-SNA.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 38
7. NURSING PROGRAM FACILITY
The academic building for the nursing program is located at 1020 S. Trimble Road,
Mansfield, Ohio. The building accommodates administrative and faculty offices, a variety of
classrooms, and nursing simulation laboratories.
7.1 COPYING/PRINTING
The student print/copy machines are located on the first and second floors and may be
accessed at all times when the Mansfield campus facility is open. Students are required to
scan their ID card or input their student number. Students are provided a print quota at the
beginning of each term. For further information, refer to:
https://myau.ashland.edu/TechSupportCenter/Pages/Printing.aspx
7.2 FOOD SERVICE
A variety of food and beverage items are available in the Conard Student Café and
Bookstore.
7.3 PARKING
All student vehicles must display an Ashland University parking card. Students are required
to park only in designated areas. The College shall have no responsibility for the loss or
damage to any vehicle, or the loss of contents while parked or operated at the Mansfield
campus.
7.4 SAFETY
Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own safety and report any suspicious
activity, safety concern, or emergency situation to any College of Nursing and Health
Sciences staff member.
7.5 STUDENT COMMONS AND QUIET STUDY AREAS
The student commons area and study areas are available to students during normal business
hours.
7.6 STUDENT LOCKERS
Lockers are provided for students on a first come, first serve basis. Lockers are to be used to
store books and other personal items while in class or during clinical rather than leaving them
in public areas (i.e. student lounge, lobby). Lockers are to be emptied at the end of each
academic year. The College is not responsible for items lost or stolen. The College reserves
the right to inspect, vacate and reassign lockers. Students storing any illegal substances or
materials in lockers are subject to dismissal from the Nursing Program. Contact the
administrative offices at the Mansfield campus to register for locker use.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 39
8. DEFINITIONS
Accountability - an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility for one’s actions.
Advocacy - acting or speaking on behalf of self and/or others.
Caring - caring is empathy for, connection to, and being with the patient, as well as the
ability to translate these affective characteristics into compassionate, sensitive, and patient-
centered care. Caring is central to nursing practice [AACN 2008, p. 26].
Clinical Judgment - The outcomes of critical thinking in nursing practice. Clinical
judgments begin with an end in mind. Judgments are about evidence, meaning, and
outcomes achieved
[AACN 2008, p. 36].
Clinical Reasoning - the process used to assimilate information, analyze data, and make
decisions regarding patient care. [AACN 2008, p. 36]
Collaboration - working with others, as equals, toward a common goal
Communication - to generate, exchange, and process thoughts and messages into
meaningful information; may include verbal, non-verbal, and virtual modes
Critical Thinking - all or part of the process of questioning, analysis, synthesis,
interpretation, inference, inductive and deductive reasoning, intuition, application and
creativity [AACN 1998, p. 36]
Culturally Sensitive Care - care that employs specific knowledge and appreciation for the
needs, characteristics, and differences in ideas, customs, and experiences of people from
diverse groups
Decision-making - to make a choice from two or more possibilities utilizing critical thinking
and reflective practice.
Disease - a pathological condition of an organism from various causes (infection, genetic,
environment stress) and characterized by identifiable signs and/or symptoms.
Disease Prevention - to teach or promote methods and/or measures that have been effective
in avoiding illness.
Diversity - the range of human variation, including age, race, gender, disability, ethnicity,
nationality, religious and spiritual beliefs, sexual orientation, political beliefs, economic
status, native language, and geographical background. [AACN 2008, p. 37]
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 40
Evidence Based Practice - a decision making approach based on integrating clinical
expertise, patient needs and preferences, and the best available evidence from research.
Excellence - of the highest or finest quality.
Global - focus upon the world.
Global Responsibility - awareness of interdependency of cultures/countries, understand how
own cultural views affect perceptions of others.
Health Promotion - activities that have as a goal the development of human attitudes and
behaviors that maintain or enhance well-being.
Healthcare Policy - statements regarding priorities, values and health resource allocations.
Illness - a deficit in one’s state of physical, psychological or social well-being.
Illness [prevention] - actions taken by individuals to prevent illness.
Informatics and Technology – automated devices used for the purpose of improving the
quality and safety of patient care.
Information Systems - technology tools that allow management of information, including
input, retrieval, and storage.
Integrity - acting in accordance with an appropriate code of ethics and accepted standards of
practice [AACN 2008, p. 27]
Justice:
Ethical - what is morally right.
Legal - the responsibility to obey and respect the rights of all and the laws to
protect society.
Political - related to government or the conduct of government.
Social - fairness or equality in the distribution of the benefits and burdens of
society which includes, but is not limited to: education, citizenship,
economic status, race, ethnicity, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation.
Knowledge Synthesis - a process that combines information for the development of higher
level concepts.
Leadership - the ability to influence others/
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 41
Liberal Education - studies that encompass inquiry and critical analysis, literacy,
understanding numerical data, historical consciousness, values, art, and multicultural
experiences.
Lifelong Learning - knowledge acquisition over the course of one’s life.
Negotiation - a process by which involved parties or groups resolve matters of dispute.
Nursing Process - a comprehensive, process used by nurses to identify and treat actual or
potential health problems.
Patient Care Technologies - automated devices used for the purpose of improving the
quality and safety of patient care.
Patient-centered Care – the provision of caring, compassionate, and culturally sensitive
care that is developed in partnership with the recipient, incorporating the patient’s
physiological, psychological, sociological, spiritual, and cultural needs, preferences, and
values and nurses’ healthcare knowledge to promote achievement of optimal patient
outcomes.
Policy and Finance – statements regarding priorities, values and health resource allocations,
stemming from regulatory environments, which include laws, rules, and regulations put into
place by government entities and other organizations to control behavior and actions. The
financing and costs of health care to both patients and health care organizations as well as
professions are intertwined within these policies.
Population Health - health of a collection of individuals having personal or environmental
characteristics in common.
Practice - the use of one’s knowledge in a particular profession.
Prevention and Population Health – Prevention is actions taken to prevent illness, and
population health involves health of a collection of individuals having personal or
environmental characteristics in common.
Professional Standards - behaviors expected from students and graduates that evidence
legal/ethical and regulatory standards.
Professionalism - the conduct, aims or qualities that characterize or mark a discipline.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 42
Quality Improvement – the use of data to monitor outcomes of care processes with the goal
of developing and implementing a plan to improve health care services and better meet the
needs of patients.
Reflective Practice - to make sense or meaning out of experience.
Regulatory Environment - laws, rules, and regulations put into place by government
entities and other organizations to control behavior and actions.
Research - scientific investigation or inquiry.
Respect - willingness to show consideration or appreciation.
Safety - protection from harm or injury.
Service - actions that benefit or contribute to the welfare of others.
Systems Level - beyond the interpersonal level.
Teaching-Learning Principles - concepts that provide insight into what makes persons
learn most effectively.
Teamwork and Collaboration – Working as partners with interprofessional members of the
health care team to provide optimal patient outcomes.
Theory - a structured set of concepts that project a systematic view of facts or phenomena.
Values - concepts that an individual or group believe to be important.
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 43
INDEX
A
Absence from Nursing Class, Lab or Clinical Experience ............................................................11
Academic Advising ........................................................................................................................12
Academic Dismissals .....................................................................................................................24
Action Plan.....................................................................................................................................12
Advisory Council (Student) ...........................................................................................................36
Annual Education Development Requirements .............................................................................13
Assessment and Evaluation ..............................................................................................................4
Assessment Technology Institute (ATI) Policy (Pre-licensure Programs) ....................................13
Attire in Clinical Settings...............................................................................................................28
B
Breach of Patient Confidentiality (HIPAA Compliance) ...............................................................30
C
Cell Phones ................................................................................................................................13
Chemical Impairment (Enrolled students) .....................................................................................13
Class Cancellation due to Inclement Weather Conditions .............................................................14
Clinical Course Work (Essential Functions of) ...............................................................................5
Clinical Assignments .....................................................................................................................29
Clinical Assignment (Refusal of) ...................................................................................................29
Clinical Evaluation Guidelines ......................................................................................................15
Clinical File (Student) ....................................................................................................................33
Clinical Locations ..........................................................................................................................29
Clinical Settings Attire ...................................................................................................................28
Communicable and Non-Communicable Illnesses ........................................................................15
Complaints (Formal) ......................................................................................................................16
Completion of Program ..................................................................................................................23
Comprehensive Predictor Exam (ATI) ..........................................................................................13
Computer Skills .............................................................................................................................16
Computer Specifications/Equipment .............................................................................................21
Conceptual Framework ....................................................................................................................1
Copy Machines ..............................................................................................................................38
Course Fees ................................................................................................................................19
CPR Certification ...........................................................................................................................30
Criminal Background Check (Admission requirement) ..................................................................5
Criminal Background Check for NCLEX-RN® ............................................................................22
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 44
D
Dean's Student Advisory Council ..................................................................................................36
Deferment of Selected Pre-Requisites ...........................................................................................16
Definitions......................................................................................................................................39
Dress Code (Lab and Clinical) .......................................................................................................28
Drug Screening (Admission Requirement) ......................................................................................5
E
Electronic Medical Records ...........................................................................................................30
Essential Functions for Clinical Course Work .................................................................................5
Evaluation and Assessment ..............................................................................................................4
F
Fees ................................................................................................................................................19
Food Service ..................................................................................................................................38
Formal Complaints.........................................................................................................................17
G
Grade Appeal – the Ashland University Grade Appeal Policy is found in the AU Catalog;
grade appeal process and electronic form is found on the AU website within
the Registrar’s tab
Grade Policies (Progression Requirement) ....................................................................................23
Grade Scale / Quality Points ..........................................................................................................17
Graduate Recognition Ceremony ...................................................................................................18
H
Health Requirements (Students) ......................................................................................................8
HIPAA Compliance .......................................................................................................................30
I
Immunizations ..................................................................................................................................8
Incidents Relative to Patient Care ..................................................................................................34
L
Lab Coat / Uniform (Attire in Clinical Settings) ...........................................................................28
Liability Insurance (Professional) ..................................................................................................33
Lockers ...........................................................................................................................................38
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 45
M
Medical Records (Electronic) ........................................................................................................30
Medication Calculation Practicum .................................................................................................18
N
NCLEX-RN® Professional Licensure ...........................................................................................22
NCLEX-RN® Review Course .......................................................................................................18
Notification of Change Regarding Program Policies .....................................................................19
Nurses Christian Fellowship ..........................................................................................................36
O
OASIS Organization ....................................................................................................................36
OBN Policy Related to Student Conduct .......................................................................................31
One on One Computing (System Requirements) ...........................................................................20
Online Discussion Board Confidentiality ......................................................................................22
P
Parking ...........................................................................................................................................38
Patient Confidentiality (HIPAA)....................................................................................................30
Professional Liability Insurance .....................................................................................................33
Professional Licensure NCLEX-RN® ...........................................................................................22
Program Completion (Pre-licensure Track) ..................................................................................23
Progression Requirements .............................................................................................................23
R
Readmission to the College of Nursing .........................................................................................25
Recognition Ceremony ..................................................................................................................18
Pre-licensure Student Handbook 2022-2023 46
S
Safe Nursing Practice ....................................................................................................................33
Safety on Campus ..........................................................................................................................38
Scholarships ................................................................................................................................35
Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society of Nursing (STTI) ......................................................................36
Student Clinical Files ....................................................................................................................33
Student Conduct (Ohio Board of Nursing Policies Related to) .....................................................31
Student Food Service .....................................................................................................................38
Student Health Status Criteria ........................................................................................................7
Student Honor Society (STTI) .......................................................................................................36
Student Incidents Relative to Patient Care .....................................................................................34
Student Learning Outcomes (Nursing SLOs) ..................................................................................4
Student Lockers..............................................................................................................................38
Student Lounges and Study Rooms ...............................................................................................38
Student Nurses Association ...........................................................................................................37
Student Organizations ....................................................................................................................36
Student Parking ..............................................................................................................................38
Student Printing/Copying ...............................................................................................................38
Student Safety ................................................................................................................................38
Student Uniform and Lab Coat (Attire) .........................................................................................28
Study Rooms / Lounges .................................................................................................................38
T
Training and Education of Students (Annual Requirements) ........................................................12
U
Uniform / Lab Coat (Attire) ...........................................................................................................28
Unusual Occurrence Report ...........................................................................................................34
W
Weather Related Closings (Class Cancellation) ............................................................................14
Withdrawals ...................................................................................................................................24
Written Paper Guidelines ...............................................................................................................27