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SUNY MORRISVILLE
SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS, SCIENCES & SOCIETY
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING
NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK
ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING PROGRAM
Fall 2023 – Spring 2024
The Associate Degree Nursing Program is
Accredited by the New York State Board of Regents and ACEN.
Information about the program is available from:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc.
3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400
Atlanta, Georgia 30326
Phone: (404) 975-5000
FAX: (404) 975-5020
www.acenursing.org
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Letter from the Director of Nursing
Welcome!
I am very pleased to welcome you to SUNY Morrisville College’s nursing program.
Morrisville’s nursing program is well respected in the community and region. Well known
for the quality education provided, Morrisville has consistently prepared the Associate
Degree level graduate for successful licensure and entry into professional practice.
Our innovative and progressive faculty is committed to providing a learning environment
that promotes critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills. Multiple educational learning
strategies are embraced, recognizing that the greatest form of learning comes from the
student becoming motivated and engaged within the learning environment. Our
teaching, learning, and simulation laboratories are regularly updated, and provide an
incredible environment for your learning. The clinical simulation laboratory provides a
wide range of experiences for you, providing a realistic bridge between nursing content
and nursing practice. Off-campus clinical rotations occur throughout the program and
provide you with opportunities apply your knowledge and skills in a variety of healthcare
settings.
The world of nursing is rapidly changing, and the level of expertise and expectations for
the professional nurse continue to increase. SUNY Morrisville College’s nursing
program consistently responds to the changes occurring in the practice setting, and
promptly implements them into our curriculum.
The future of nursing holds exciting opportunities, and the possibilities are as diverse as
the practice settings that are available for professional nursing. The privilege to make a
difference in a patient’s life is amazing and humbling. I welcome you to the SUNY
Morrisville College nursing community as we work to improve the health of the patients,
families and communities we serve.
Linda Taylor DNP, RN
Director of Nursing Programs
School of Liberal Arts, Sciences & Society
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Table of Contents
I. MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY STATEMENTS – Standard 1 ....................................................................................................5
COLLEGE VISION STATEMENT .................................................................................................................................... 5
COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT................................................................................................................................. 5
MORRISVILLE WORKS TO: ............................................................................................................................................. 5
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING MISSION STATEMENT........................................................................................... 5
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING – ASSOCIATE DEGREE PHILOSOPHY .......................................................... 6
II. COMMUNICATION - Standard 2 ........................................................................................................................................................7
DEAN, SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS, SCIENCES & SOCIETY ......................................................................... 7
DIRECTOR OF NURSING PROGRAMS ....................................................................................................................... 7
Kristen Peck-Sanford MS, RN ........................................................................................................................................ 7
Department Chair 7
Morrisville Campus: Bailey Hall Rm 110 ................................................................................................................... 7
Office: 315-684-6965 7
NURSING FACULTY .........................................................................................................................................................................................7
SCHOOL OFFICE SECRETARY ..................................................................................................................................... 8
NURSING CLINICAL COORDINATOR ......................................................................................................................... 8
NURSING LABORATORY COORDINATOR: ............................................................................................................. 8
NURSING INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT ASSISTANTS .................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
FACULTY MAILBOXES ...................................................................................................................................................... 8
III. INFORMATION & MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS - Standard 3 ....................................................................................9
ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT ................................................................................................................................................ 9
ATTENDANCE POLICY ...................................................................................................................................................... 9
BUSING TO CLINICAL FACILITIES ......................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
CLASSROOM AND CAMPUS LABORATORY CONDUCT ................................................................................... 9
CLINICAL HEALTH CLEARANCE POLICY: SEE APPENDIX A ....................................................................... 9
CLINICAL PLACEMENT ASSIGNMENTS ................................................................................................................... 9
CREDIT HOUR ALLOCATION ......................................................................................................................................... 9
DISASTER PLAN …………………………. .................................................................................................................... 9
DISTRIBUTION OF GRADES ........................................................................................................................................ 10
DROPPING, ADDING, OR WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE ........................................................................ 10
FINANCIAL AID ………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10
GENERAL INFORMATION, POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ........................................................................... 10
GRADING SCALES …… ................................................................................................................................................. 12
LAPTOP CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................. 13
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MATTHIAS STUDENT HEALTH CENTER ................................................................................................................ 13
MEALS FOR CLINICAL DAY......................................................................................................................................... 14
NCLEX-RN EXAMINATION ............................................................................................................................................ 14
PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE FOR STUDENT NURSES ........................................................... 14
PROGRESSION and RE-ADMISSION POLICY FOR NURSING: SEE APPENDIX C .............................. 14
STUDENT COMMUNICATION ...................................................................................................................................... 14
STUDENT DRESS CODE POLICY: ............................................................................................................................. 14
CLINICAL AGENCIES AND CAMPUS LABORATORY: SEE APPENDIX D ............................................... 14
STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE................................................................................................................................ 14
STUDENTS REQUIRING HEALTH CARE ................................................................................................................ 14
STUDENT ID ………….. ................................................................................................................................................... 15
STUDENT INFORMATION .............................................................................................................................................. 15
SUNY MORRISVILLE GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS ................................................................. 15
TESTING POLICY: SEE APPENDIX E ....................................................................................................................... 15
TRANSFER ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS ........................................................................................................ 15
TRANSFER STUDENTS .................................................................................................................................................. 15
IV. CURRICULUM – Standard 4 ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
END OF PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES: .......................................................................................... 16
NURSING SKILL COMPETENCIES ............................................................................................................................ 23
DEFINITIONS INVOLVING THE ACQUISITION & EVALUATION OF CLINICAL NURSING SKILLS 23
CAMPUS LABORATORY REQUIREMENTS AND TESTING ............................................................................ 23
EVALUATION OF CLINICAL PERFORMANCE POLICY: SEE APPENDIX B ............................................ 25
UNSAFE POLICY: SEE APPENDIX F ............................................................................................................... 25
METHODS OF INSTRUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 25
METHODS OF EVALUATION: ...................................................................................................................................... 25
V. Associate Degree Nursing Program Outcomes – Standard 6. ...................................................................................... 26
APPENDICES................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
APPENDIX A: Clinical Health Clearance Policy ........................................................................................................ 29
APPENDIX B: Evaluation of Clinical Performance .................................................................................................. 32
APPENDIX C: Progression and Readmission Policy............................................................................................... 33
APPENDIX D: Student Dress Code Policy ................................................................................................................... 35
APPENDIX E: Testing Policy ........................................................................................................................................... 37
APPENDIX F: Unsafe Policy ............................................................................................................................................. 40
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I. MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY STATEMENTS – Standard 1
SUNY Morrisville College Department of Nursing
COLLEGE VISION STATEMENT
SUNY Morrisville College aspires to be a recognized leader in innovative applied
education.
COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT
SUNY Morrisville College works to offer diverse learning experiences so that graduates
may pursue rewarding lives and careers, become engaged citizens, and contribute to
our collective future.
MORRISVILLE WORKS TO:
INSPIRE LEARNING THROUGH EXPERIENCE
Goal 1: To offer career-focused, experiential learning
Goal 2: To promote inquiry and scholarship at all levels
Goal 3: To enhance cultural competency and promote equity and inclusion
BUILD COMMUNITY
Goal 4: To create a vibrant campus community for personal interaction and growth
Goal 5: To engage the local community in civic and cultural affairs
Goal 6: To promote regional, state-wide and international partnerships
ACHIEVE A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Goal 7: To develop campus resources and operations with minimum resource footprint
Goal 8: To achieve effective and sustainable levels of required resources
Goal 9: To assess and document success in achieving the College’s mission
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the SUNY Morrisville Department of Nursing is to foster the development
of the intentional learner who is prepared to transition to practice as a member of the
interdisciplinary health care team. The nursing program will provide educational
opportunities that promote student learning across the lifespan, cultures, and the health
and wellness continuum. The nursing faculty are committed, collaborative partners with
students and healthcare agencies supporting nursing workforce needs and interests in
our communities while striving to meet its continual and changing health care needs.
The focus of the program is mastery of graduate level competencies reflecting the
knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for the delivery of safe, quality care.
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DEPARTMENT OF NURSING – ASSOCIATE DEGREE PHILOSOPHY
The Nursing Department faculty believes that:
• Each student is a unique individual, shaped by culture, ethnicity, sexual identity,
socioeconomic status, and environment. Faculty respect and support this
diverse student population, enabling students to flourish as they work within our
communities and beyond to achieve their academic and professional goals.
• All nurses are life-long learners, continuously developing their professional
knowledge, skills, and attitudes with a spirit of inquiry. Employing student-centred
learning strategies holds students responsible and accountable for their learning.
Students take an active role in their own learning in partnership with faculty
facilitating the assimilation of concepts and knowledge of professional nursing.
• The National League for Nurses (NLN) outcomes, supported by the Quality and
Safety Education for Nursing (QSEN) competencies, capture the essence of
nursing we wish to instill in our students. We will prepare generalist nurses to
enter the workforce with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, professionalism, and
confidence necessary to continuously improve the quality and safety of the
healthcare system.
Framework: SUNY Morrisville Department of Nursing has integrated the NLN
Competencies which are supported by QSEN competencies into the framework of its
curriculum. The intent of these principles is to arm the graduate nurse with the
knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to provide optimal patient care. The faculty is
responsible for incorporating competency-based knowledge, skills and attitudes both in
the classroom and clinical setting and provide diverse educational experiences which
incorporate a variety of teaching methodologies and clinical experiences. Faculty
recognize that students have their own unique learning needs and will integrate
knowledge best when they are actively involved in the learning process. Diverse
experiences enable students to develop the clinical judgment required to perform safe
patient care.
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II. COMMUNICATION - Standard 2
DEAN, SCHOOL OF LIBERAL ARTS, SCIENCES & SOCIETY
Jason Zbock
Morrisville Campus: Crawford Hall Room 134
Office: 315-684-6081
DIRECTOR OF NURSING PROGRAMS
Linda Taylor, DNP, RN
Morrisville Campus: Bailey Hall Rm 110
Office: 315-684-6049
NURSING DIVISION CHAIR
Kristen Peck-Sanford, MS, RN
Division Chair
Morrisville Campus: Bailey Hall Rm 112
Office: 315-684-6965
LEAD FACULTY BS NURSING PROGRAM
Norma Swartout, DNP, RN
NURSING FACULTY
Susan Caraher, MS, RN
Bailey Annex Rm 113
315-684-6652
carahese@morrisville.edu
Tyler Colbert, DNP, RN
Bailey Hall Rm 010
315-684-6295
colbertr@morrisville.edu
Pamela Fess, DNP, RN
Bailey Hall Rm 021
315-684-6293
fesspj@morrisville.edu
Sara Flihan, MSN, RN
Bailey Hall Rm 009
315-684-6695
flihansn@morrisville.edu
Janet Furco, DNP, RN
Bailey Hall Rm 018
315-684-6966
furcoj@morrisville.edu
Carol Graham, MS, RN
Bailey Annex Rm 110
315-684-6651
grahamca@morrisville.edu
Tacy Jones, MSN, RN
Bailey Annex Rm 107
315-684-3983
joneste@morrisville.edu
Sonia Marris, MS, RN
Bailey Hall Rm 009
315-684-6430
marrissm@morrisville.edu
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NURSING FACULTY
Linda McCormack-Miller, DNP, RN
Norwich Campus
Follett Hall, Room 2138
607-334-5144 X 5065
mccormla@morrisville.edu
Mary O’Loughlin, MA, RN
Norwich Campus
Follett Hall, Room 238
607-334-5144 X 5072
o'lougmm@morrisville.edu
Kristen Peck-Sanford, MS, RN
Bailey Hall Rm 112
315-684-6965
peckskm@morrisville.edu
Alessandro Rendina, MS, RN
Bailey Hall Rm 013
315-684-6366
rendina@morrisville.edu
Denise Smith, BSN, RN
Bailey Hall Rm 014
315-684-6270
smithdd@morrisville.edu
Jane Stephenson, Ed. D., RN
stepheje@morrisville.edu
Rebecca A. Sullivan, MSN, RN
Norwich Campus
Follett Hall, Room 238
607-334-5144 X 5040
sullivra@morrisville.edu
Norma Swartout, DNP, RN
swartonj@morrisville.edu
Linda Taylor, DNP, RN
Bailey Hall Room 110
(315)684-6049
taylorla@morrisville.edu
SCHOOL OFFICE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Andrea Mazor
Bailey Hall Rm 113
Office: 315-684-6016
Fax: 315-684-6592
mazora@morrisville.edu
NURSING SIMULATION COORDINATOR
Tacy Jones, MSN, RN
Bailey Annex Rm 107
Office: 315-684-6652
joneste@morrisville.edu
NURSING LABORATORY COORDINATOR:
Susan Caraher, MS, RN
Bailey Annex 113
Office: 315-684-6652
carahese@morrisville.edu
Morrisville Campus Nursing Practice Lab: Bailey Annex 115, 315-684-6290
FACULTY MAILBOXES
Nursing faculty mailboxes are located in the Bailey Hall Nursing Office at the Morrisville
campus and in the Administration Section on the second floor of Follett Hall at the
Norwich campus. Materials for faculty mailboxes should be given directly to the office
secretary.
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III. INFORMATION & MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS - Standard 3
ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT
Your academic advisor’s name can be located under Web for Students on the college
web site. Academic advisors have posted office hours located outside their offices.
Students are encouraged to schedule appointments with their academic advisor when
needed. Students must meet with their academic advisor to prepare for online course
registration as well as for dropping or adding courses. Information regarding online
registration can be found under Web for Student.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes, nursing laboratory and clinical
sessions. Specific attendance requirements will be discussed at the beginning of each
course. When special circumstances make absences unavoidable, students must notify
clinical and/or laboratory faculty of such circumstances.
CLASSROOM AND CAMPUS LABORATORY CONDUCT
All students and faculty are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner
that includes but not limited to being prepared for class and laboratory activities, being
timely and not eating, drinking, or using unassigned electronic devices during
presentations. All students and faculty will follow the Codes of Conduct and Civility as
defined by SUNY Morrisville. Any behavior or activity that interferes with learning will not
be tolerated. Faculty reserves the right to promptly dismiss students from the class or
laboratory according to college policy for such violations.
CLINICAL HEALTH CLEARANCE POLICY: SEE APPENDIX A
CLINICAL PLACEMENT ASSIGNMENTS
Students are advised that clinical days/clinical sites may be changed based on
constraints which impact the nursing clinical assignments. Students are advised to keep
the first week of the semester, as well as the week rotations occur free of other
commitments. The nursing program reserves the right to adjust the clinical rotations at
any time before or during the semester. It is recommended that a student not request
clinical placement on a unit where they are employed.
CREDIT HOUR ALLOCATION
A credit hour is equivalent to 15 hours of instruction. Of the total sixty-four credits, thirty-
seven (37) hours (57.8%) are nursing courses and twenty-seven (27) credit hours
(42.2%) are from other selected disciplines. The nursing courses are sequenced over
four semesters.
DISASTER PLAN
Students are required to follow the disaster plan of any clinical agency to which they are
assigned and are expected to follow the direction of hospital staff and/or faculty during
disasters.
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DISTRIBUTION OF GRADES
Percentage distribution for tests, research projects, clinical projects, quizzes, other
assignments, and the final exam are listed in each individual course syllabus. Course
grades as follows:
Clinical Performance Measurement* Satisfactory
Skill Competencies* Completed by deadlines stated in the
course critical elements packet
Medication Mathematic Competency* Minimum score achieved with 3
opportunities as stated in course
syllabus
*For courses with this component, an unsatisfactory grade or failure to complete
or achieve the stated requirement of any of the above results in course failure.
DROPPING, ADDING, OR WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE
Students must confer with their academic advisor before dropping, adding, or
withdrawing from a course. Completed paperwork must be initiated from and returned to
the school office.
FINANCIAL AID
It is recommended that any student planning to drop a course or to repeat a course to
improve a grade, check with the Financial Aid office as this may affect future financial
aid eligibility.
GENERAL INFORMATION, POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
A. The Student who fails to read this Nursing Student Handbook, The SUNY
Morrisville Student Handbook, course syllabus, and/or other official college
publications, will not be excused from the requirements, regulations and
deadlines set forth in these publications. The students should review all
publications at the beginning of each nursing course.
B. Information in this handbook should be considered an irrevocable contract
between the student and SUNY Morrisville. SUNY Morrisville reserves the right,
whenever it deems advisable, to change its schedule of tuition and fees,
reschedule or modify any course, program of study, or to change policies.
C. SUNY Morrisville’s academic policies, academic program admission, student
records, sexual harassment, bias-related behavior, computer acceptable use
policy, affirmative action, non-discrimination, and other campus or college
policies are found in the current "SUNY Morrisville Student Handbook” and/or
"The SUNY Morrisville Catalog." Information about student support services is
also available. A copy can be reviewed from the college website.
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D. Students with disabilities will coordinate services through the Office of
Accessibility Services located on both Morrisville and Norwich Campuses.
Morrisville campus, the Accessibility Services Office is located on the 2
nd
floor of
Butcher Library. The Norwich Campus Office is located on the 1
st
floor of Follett
Hall, room 133. Students with a documented disability who wish to utilize
services and/or academic accommodations should contact their respective
campus office at the start of each semester. Reasonable accommodations will be
made after faculty receives a referral from the Accessibility Services. Students
may be eligible for reasonable accommodations in professional licensing
examinations in New York State. Questions regarding your request may be made
by contacting the Bureau of Professional Examinations (518) 486-2099; Fax
(518) 473-8577; or e-mail [email protected].
Morrisville Campus: Morrisville Campus Office: 315-684-6349
Norwich Campus: Norwich Campus Office: 607-334-5144 ext. 5055
E. Any student who has been convicted of or is currently charged with a felony or
misdemeanor should inform his/her faculty advisor or program director promptly
for advisement as it may interfere with professional licensure.
F. Students with an academic grievance must follow the procedure outlined in the
current “SUNY Morrisville Student Handbook.”
G. Some of the agencies used for clinical laboratory experiences may require a
background check. Any costs associated with this requirement are the
responsibility of the student.
H. All examinations must be taken according to Testing Policy. Any form of
unauthorized written or electronic material used by a student or evident on
his/her person during or directly following an examination shall be deemed a
violation of academic honesty. Unauthorized written, verbal or electronic
correspondence between students during any examination or preparation of
submitted work, which cannot be substantiated by physical proof or eye-witness
verification, shall be considered an infraction of the code and shall subject
involved party to corrective procedures.
I. The nursing faculty reserves the right to change a student’s seating assignment
at any time during the course including just before, during, and after testing.
J. When conditions at a clinical facility warrant it, the faculty reserves the right to
change any student’s assigned clinical site or instructor at any time during the
semester in order to facilitate the acquisition of the student learning outcomes for
the course.
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K. Children, pets, and persons who are not registered for nursing classes are not
allowed in the classroom, clinical setting, computer lab, study areas or campus
nursing laboratory.
L. Cell phone must be set to a non-audible mode and use is prohibited during
nursing lecture, test review, clinical rotation or lab class unless authorized by
faculty.
M. Faculty may invoke specific classroom rules regarding late entry as indicated in
the specific course syllabus. When on campus, students may be reached in an
emergency via the Morrisville State University Police (315-684-6410). Directions
will be given to students regarding emergency contact information at each clinical
agency during clinical orientation.
N. Refer to the Appendices for the following specific policies:
A. Clinical Health Clearance Policy
B. Evaluation of Clinical Performance Policy
C. Progression and Re-admittance Policy
D. Student Dress Code Policy
E. Testing Policy
F. Unsafe Policy
GRADING SCALES
All nursing (NURS) courses will use the same grading scale:
A = 90 - 100 C = 72 - 74
A- = 87 - 89 C- = 69 - 71
B+ = 84 - 86 D+ = 67 - 68
B = 81 - 83 D = 65 - 66
B- = 78 - 80 F = below 65
C+ = 75 – 77
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
For graduation, the total number of credit hours shall be at least 64 with a minimum
cumulative grade point average grade of 2.0, as well as satisfactory completion of all
program requirements.
HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT (HIPAA)
MANDATES/SOCIAL NETWORKING/CELL PHONE CAMERA POLICIES
Confidentiality of the client must always be protected. Failure to comply with clinical
agency HIPAA regulations could result in civil and/or criminal action including fines and
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imprisonment as well as dismissal from the nursing program. This is evaluated on the
clinical performance measurement tool.
The student must protect client information. Sharing of any client information through a
social networking site, with or without the use of names is prohibited. Any student who
posts information about a client is violating HIPAA privacy laws. This includes the use of
a computer at a healthcare facility or the use of a personal computer outside the
healthcare setting.
The student is prohibited from using a cell phone or camera to take pictures in the
clinical and laboratory settings. Students must comply with the hospital policy regarding
no use of personal electronic devices utilized on the unit. Confidentiality of client
information is also protected by the Patient’s Bill of Rights.
LAPTOP CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS
The Associate Degree Nursing Program is a laptop curriculum. Laptops are required for
each student beginning with the entering class (NURS 120). Students may be able to
use Financial Aid to purchase a laptop. It is recommended that students contact the
Financial Aid Office before purchasing a laptop. A privacy screen/filter/shield is
required for all computerized testing. Students will not be allowed to test without this.
All documents must be submitted to faculty in most current Microsoft Office format.
No unassigned electronic devices are to be utilized during test review. Permission from
each faculty member must be obtained prior to the use of any unassigned electronic
devices during class or campus laboratory experience. All oral, written, and computer-
generated teaching materials remain the property of the nursing faculty and are not to
be sold or misrepresented.
Students are responsible for attending all classes and the campus laboratory
experience with a laptop computer that includes current hardware and software
products as assigned in the course including a fully charged battery. Students will be
prepared to complete all course requirements as instructed by the faculty. Students will
avoid using unassigned hardware and software. Students will adhere to the computer
use code of conduct and electronic use policies as identified in the SUNY Morrisville
College Student Handbook. Failure to adhere to the rules and policies may result in a
student’s loss of laptop privileges and prevent students from completing academic
assignments, and evaluations such as quizzes and tests.
MATTHIAS STUDENT HEALTH CENTER
Student Health Services are in the Matthias building on the Morrisville campus, south of
the John W. Stewart (STUAC) building. Information concerning health services may be
accessed from the SUNY Morrisville website or 315-684-6078 during office hours.
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MEALS FOR CLINICAL DAY
Students participating in the campus meal plan, who will miss a meal due to the timing
of the clinical day, need to consult the MAC office to obtain the policies and procedures
for meal reimbursement. Please obtain meal receipts for submission to MAC.
NCLEX-RN EXAMINATION
Any student, who has successfully completed the nursing program curricula with 64
credit hours and a 2.0 cum GPA or above, will earn an AAS degree in Nursing and be
eligible to apply for the NCLEX-RN Examination in any state where they plan to reside.
New York State fees for the exam are approximately $375 and include testing, a limited
permit to practice nursing and the initial state registration.
PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE FOR STUDENT NURSES
Professional liability insurance for student nurses is strongly recommended and can be
obtained from advertisements in professional nursing journals or private insurance
companies for a minimal yearly fee.
PROGRESSION and RE-ADMISSION POLICY FOR NURSING: SEE APPENDIX C
STUDENT COMMUNICATION
Every SUNY Morrisville student receives a user-code and password to the centralized
computer. Students must obtain these codes during the first week of the first semester
enrolled in classes at the Computer Services Center located on the lower level of
Charlton Hall on the Morrisville campus and from Computer Services in the Follett Hall
for Norwich students. It is the student’s responsibility to check the SUNY Morrisville’s
electronic mail (E-mail) on a regular basis. Students are responsible for course
communication and information posted on Brightspace and/or Evolve. Faculty are
available for students during their posted office hours or by appointment. Any student
may request to meet with the faculty team at the weekly faculty team meeting. A timely
response to all requests will be made by the faculty depending on meeting agendas.
STUDENT DRESS CODE POLICY:
CLINICAL AGENCIES AND CAMPUS LABORATORY: SEE APPENDIX D
STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE
Each student must currently be covered by a health insurance policy while enrolled in
the nursing program. Students may carry private insurance or obtain coverage available
for a fee through the SUNY Morrisville Business Office.
STUDENTS REQUIRING HEALTH CARE
Any student requiring health care services while at an assigned, off-campus clinical
agency is financially responsible for any services that are used.
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STUDENT ID
All nursing students need to obtain a new photo ID to be worn to clinical, each academic
year through the ID office in the Campus Store. Please note there is a charge for ID
card.
STUDENT INFORMATION
Each student will complete a student data form at the beginning of each semester. It is
the responsibility of the student to inform the school office of any changes. All updates
(including such information as changes in name, address, phone numbers or
emergency contacts) must be kept current in the school office.
SUNY MORRISVILLE GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Students who intend to pursue a bachelor’s degree from any SUNY institution should
consult with that institution regarding SUNY Morrisville’s General Education
requirements. Additional information can be found in the SUNY Morrisville Catalog and
from your academic advisor.
TESTING POLICY: SEE APPENDIX E
TRANSFER ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS
Transfer articulation agreements between SUNY Morrisville for a Baccalaureate Degree
with a major in Nursing are in effect with, SUNY Polytechnic Institute: Utica, NY, SUNY
Upstate Medical University College of Nursing, Syracuse, NY, and Le Moyne College,
Syracuse, NY
TRANSFER STUDENTS
See your academic advisor or the Director to make sure your transcripts are on file and
up to date. Transfer students are required to take a minimum of 30 credits from SUNY
Morrisville to obtain a degree from SUNY Morrisville. It is the student’s responsibility to
make sure records of all transcripts and transfer credits are up to date and on file in the
Bailey Hall Nursing office. Failure to do so may interfere with the expected date of
graduation.
IV. CURRICULUM – Standard 4
The faculty have identified six core concepts which are identified in the Conceptual
Framework. These are Patient-Centered Care, Safety, Evidence-Based Practice,
Quality Improvement, Informatics, and Teamwork, Collaboration and Professionalism.
The core concepts are threaded through all nursing courses and are the framework for
course student learning outcomes and evaluation methods. The curriculum incorporates
the nursing process throughout each of the courses. As students’ progress through the
nursing curriculum each successive course guides them in applying the nursing process
with increasing complexity and competency.
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NEW YORK STATE CHILD ABUSE AND INFECTION CONTROL REQUIRMENTS
New York State has Mandated Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting Continuing
Education and Mandated NYS Infection Control Training for Healthcare Professionals.
All NURS 150 students are required to complete both online course prior to the end of
the semester. The programs are accessed on the New York Nurses Association website
at: http://www.elearnonline.net/statemandate.aspx?x=44
The current cost of each program is approximately $25 per course. The cost of the
program is the responsibility of each individual student. Print out two certificates of
completion for both. See syllabus for due date. Students will not advance in the program
if the certificates are not on file.
END OF PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Patient-Centered Care – The student will advocate for the patient and their families to
promote a partnership in providing compassionate and coordinated care based on
respect for patient’s preferences, values, and needs.
Safety – The student will use their clinical reasoning ability to integrate nursing science
in the provision of safe and quality care necessary to minimize risk of harm to patients,
family, and providers.
Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) – The student will integrate best current evidence with
clinical expertise based on the patient and the family’s values and preferences for
delivery of optimal health care.
Quality Improvement – The student will examine the evidence that supports clinical
practice and question underlying assumptions necessary to improve the quality and
safety of health care systems.
Informatics – The student will make judgments in practice based on information and
technology to communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error, and support decision
making.
Teamwork, Collaboration and Professionalism – The student will conduct self in a way
that reflects integrity, responsibility, and ethical practices necessary to function
effectively within nursing and interdisciplinary teams, fostering open communication,
mutual respect, and shared decision-making to achieve safe and quality patient care.
17
TABLE 4.2.1: Section VI
LEVELED END OF PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
Patient-Centered Care
The student will advocate for the patient and their families to promote a partnership in providing compassionate and coordinated care based on
respect for patient’s preferences, values, and needs.
NURS 120
NURS 150
NURS 210
NURS 250
NURS 251
Discuss various aspects
of patient care.
Describe how diverse
cultural, ethnic and social
backgrounds function as
sources of patient,
family, and community
values.
Demonstrate
comprehensive
understanding of the
concepts of pain
suffering, including
physiologic models of
pain and comfort.
Apply strategies to
enhance
communication and
prevent barriers of
active involvement of
patients in their own
health care processes.
Employ effective
strategies in the
provision of patient
centered care in
relation to diverse
cultural, ethnic and
social backgrounds.
Illustrate how the safety and
quality of health care can be
improved through the active
involvement of patients and
families.
Relate how sensitivity to
diverse, cultural, ethnic and
social backgrounds affects
patient-centered care.
Integrate and understanding of
multiple dimensions of patient-
centered care as the patient’s
advocate:
- Patient/family/community
- Coordination and integration of
care
Information, communication and
education
- Physical comfort and
emotional support
Involvement of family and
friends
- Transition and continuity
Develop strategies to empower
patients or families in all
aspects of the healthcare
process.
Summarize how diverse
cultural, ethnic, and social
backgrounds function as
sources of patient, family and
community values.
Integrate knowledge of culture and
ethnicity as they relate to global issues
and healthcare conditions.
Recognize the patient as the full partner
in providing compassionate and
coordinated care based on respect for
patient’s preferences, needs, and
values.
Teamwork, Collaboration and Professionalism
The student will conduct self in a way that reflects integrity, responsibility, and ethical practices necessary to function effectively within nursing
and interdisciplinary teams, fostering open communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making to achieve safe and quality patient care.
18
TABLE 4.2.1: Section VI
LEVELED END OF PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
NURS 120
NURS 150
NURS 210
NURS 250
NURS 251
Define scopes of
practice and roles of
health care team
members.
Discuss effective
strategies for
communicating and
resolving conflict.
Discover
contributions of self
and other individuals
and groups in
helping
patients/families set
and achieve health
goals.
Employ strategies for
identifying team roles and
accountabilities.
Discover ways in which
inter-professional team
functioning affects ethics,
safety, and quality of
care.
Hypothesize how the
differences in
communication style
preferences among patients
and families, nurses, and
other members of the health
team affect safe and quality
patient care.
Explain the impact of your
own communication style on
others.
Critique therapeutic communication and
conflict resolution with peers.
Interpret multiple tasks utilizing the five
rights of delegation.
Analyze barriers that impact the
function of the team and develop
methods for improvements.
Analyze the need for lifelong learning to
meet the duties of professional
registered nursing practice based on
legal, moral, and ethical obligations
Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)
The student will integrate best current evidence with clinical expertise based on the patient and family’s values and preferences for delivery of
optimal healthcare.
NURS 120
NURS 150
NURS 210
NURS 250
NURS 251
Explain the role of
evidence in
determining best
clinical practice.
Demonstrate the
differences between
clinical practices
with research and
evidence.
Employ EBP to include
the components of
research evidence,
clinical expertise and
patient/family values.
Describe how the strength
and relevance of available
evidence influences the
choice of interventions in
provision of patient-centered
care.
Identify how improvements in patient’s
health literacy minimize risk, harm, and
prevents future hospital admissions.
Synthesize nursing and other
appropriate theories, models, and
ethical frameworks from nursing and
other disciplines.
Quality Improvement
The student will examine the evidence that supports clinical practice and question underlying assumptions necessary to improve the quality and
safety of health care systems.
NURS 120
NURS 150
NURS 210
NURS 250
NURS 251
Explain that nursing
and other health
professions are parts
of systems of care and
care processes that
affect outcomes for
patients and families.
Discover strategies
for learning about
the outcomes of
care in the setting in
Analyze how data is used
to develop strategies,
policies and procedures
to improve outcomes for
patients, families and
communities.
Explain the importance of
variation and measurement
in assessing quality care.
Analyze how data is used to develop
strategies, policies, and procedures to
improve outcomes for patients, families,
and communities.
19
TABLE 4.2.1: Section VI
LEVELED END OF PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
which one is ngaged
in clinical practice.
Safety
The student will use their clinical reasoning ability to integrate nursing science in the provision of safe and quality care necessary to minimize risk
of harm to patients, family, and providers.
NURS 120
NURS 150
NURS 210
NURS 250
NURS 251
Distinguish human
factors and other basic
safety design
principles as they
apply to the provision
of safe and quality
care.
Review the potential
and actual impact of
national patient safety
resources, initiatives
and regulations.
Discuss effective
strategies to reduce
reliance on memory.
Discover the
potential and actual
impact of national
patient safety
resources, initiatives
and regulations.
Interpret the benefits
and limitations of
selected safety-
enhancing
technologies.
Analyze human factors
and other basic safety
design principles as well
as commonly used
unsafe practices as they
relate to the provision of
safe and quality care.
Discuss potential and
actual impact of national
patient safety resources,
initiatives and regulations.
Discover factors that
create a culture of safety.
Explain human factors and
other basic safety design
principles as they apply to
the provision of safe and
quality care.
Summarize the potential and
actual impact of national
patient safety resources,
initiatives, and regulations.
Synthesize processes used
in understanding causes of
error and allocation of
responsibility (such as root
cause analysis).
Participate and analyze the impact of
technology and processes that support
safety and quality across the healthcare
continuum.
Analyze national patient safety goals to
reduce risk of harm to self or others.
Evaluate factors that create a culture of
safety.
Informatics
The student will make judgments in practice based on information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error, and
support decision making.
NURS 120
NURS 150
NURS 210
NURS 250
NURS 251
Explain why
information and
technology skills that
are essential for safe
patient care.
Provide examples of
how technology and
information
management are
related to the quality
Analyze the skills
required for computers,
databases, and other
technologies to become
Explain essential information
that must be available in a
common database to
support patient care.
Analyze how data is used to develop
strategies, policies, and procedures to
improve outcomes for patients, families,
and communities.
20
TABLE 4.2.1: Section VI
LEVELED END OF PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
and safety of patient
care.
reliable and effective
tools for patient care.
Patient-Centered Care
The student will advocate for the patient and their families to promote a partnership in providing compassionate and coordinated care based on
respect for patient’s preferences, values, and needs.
NURS 152
NURS 212
NURS 252
Use the nursing process in the
preparation and administration of drug
therapy for patients with common health
problems.
Demonstrate knowledge of culture and
ethnicity as they relate to drug therapy in
patients, families, and communities.
Illustrate and demonstrate principles of
teaching and learning related to drug
therapy.
Prioritize the care based on the nursing
process in relation to drug therapy for
patients with complex common health
problems.
Interpret knowledge of culture and ethnicity
as they relate to drug therapy in patients,
families, communities and its influence on
complex health problems.
Prioritize and implement the principles of
teaching and learning related to drug therapy.
Synthesize the nursing process in relation to drug
therapy for patients with multiple common complex
health problems.
Synthesize knowledge of culture and ethnicity as
they relate to drug therapy in patients, families, and
communities.
Explain various nursing roles in assuring
coordination, integration, and continuity of teaching
and learning related to drug therapy.
Teamwork, Collaboration and Professionalism
The student will conduct self in a way that reflects integrity, responsibility, and ethical practices necessary to function effectively within nursing
and interdisciplinary teams, fostering open communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making to achieve safe and quality patient care.
NURS 152
NURS 212
NURS 252
Utilize therapeutic communication when
interacting with the interdisciplinary team
to support the drug therapy needs of the
patient, families and communities
relating to common health problems.
Illustrate the need for lifelong learning to
meet the duties of the registered
professional nursing practice based on
legal, moral and ethical obligations.
Integrate therapeutic communication when
interacting with the interdisciplinary team to
support the drug therapy needs of the patient,
families and communities relating to common
health problems.
Analyze the need for lifelong learning to meet
the duties of the registered professional
nursing practice based on legal, moral and
ethical obligations.
Utilize therapeutic communication when interacting
with the interdisciplinary team to support the drug
therapy needs of the patient, families, and
community related to multiple common complex
health problems.
Compose a plan for continued life-long learning after
graduation to meet the duties of the registered
professional nursing practice based on legal, moral,
and ethical obligations.
Develop evidence-based strategies for improving
systems to support team functioning.
21
TABLE 4.2.1: Section VI
LEVELED END OF PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)
The student will integrate best current evidence with clinical expertise based on the patient and family’s values and preferences for delivery of
optimal healthcare.
NURS 152
NURS 212
NURS 252
Demonstrate the application of critical
thinking in relation to pharmacological
principles in patients common health
problems.
Discover nursing resources available to
remain current with changes in
pharmacology for patients with common
health problems.
Employ the application of critical thinking in
relation to pharmacological principles in patients
common health problems.
Analyze nursing resources available to remain
current with changes in pharmacology for patients
with common health problems.
Synthesize the application of critical thinking in relation to
pharmacological principles in patients with common
complex health problems.
Collect and utilize nursing resources available to remain
current with changes in pharmacology.
Quality Improvement
The student will examine the evidence that supports clinical practice and question underlying assumptions necessary to improve the quality and
safety of health care systems.
NURS 152
NURS 212
NURS 252
Show how data related to drug therapy
is used to develop strategies, policies
and procedures to improve outcomes for
patients, families and communities.
Compare and contrast how data related to
drug therapy is used to develop strategies,
policies and procedures to improve outcomes
for patients, families and communities.
Synthesize how data related to drug therapy is used
to develop strategies, policies, and procedures to
improve outcomes for patients, families, and
communities.
Safety
The student will use their clinical reasoning ability to integrate nursing science in the provision of safe and quality care necessary to minimize risk
of harm to patients, family, and providers.
NURS 152
NURS 212
NURS 252
Demonstrate knowledge of safe and
effective administration of
pharmacological agents of patients with
common health problems.
Illustrate the pharmacological principles
of each classification group prototype.
Demonstrate knowledge of safe and effective
administration of pharmacological agents of
patients with common health problems.
Describe the pharmacological principles of
each classification group prototype.
Demonstrate knowledge of conversion of
measurements and dosage calculations.
Design a step-by-step plan for safe medication
administration utilizing knowledge pharmacological
agents for patients with multiple common complex
health problems.
Explain the pharmacological principles of each
classification group prototype.
Synthesize knowledge of conversion of
measurements and dosage calculations.
22
TABLE 4.2.1: Section VI
LEVELED END OF PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES
Demonstrate knowledge of conversion
of measurements and dosage
calculations.
Discover nursing responsibilities and
employ strategies for preventing
medication errors.
Discover risk and benefits associated
with the use of over-the-counter, dietary
supplements, and herbals.
Identify and integrate nursing responsibilities
and strategies for preventing medication
errors.
Describe risks and benefits associated with
the use of over-the-counter, dietary
supplements, and herbals.
Explain nursing responsibilities and strategies for
preventing medication errors.
Summarize risks and benefits associated with the
use of over-the-counter, dietary supplements, and
herbals.
Informatics
The student will make judgments in practice based on information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error, and
support decision making.
NURS 152
NURS 212
NURS 252
Discover historical, current local and
global issues related to drug therapy.
Analyze historical, current local and global
issues related to drug therapy.
Summarize and evaluate historical, current local and
global issues related to drug therapy.
23
NURSING SKILL COMPETENCIES
Students acquire nursing skills throughout the program. Each skill requiring competency
testing is initially taught during scheduled campus laboratory sessions. It then becomes
the responsibility of the student to utilize the practice laboratory to improve, achieve,
and maintain proficiency in skill performance. Students are not eligible for evaluation of
skills until they have completed required documented practice in the nursing laboratory
and cannot be evaluated the same day as their initial practice. The availability of the
Morrisville and Norwich laboratories for practice are posted.
DEFINITIONS INVOLVING THE ACQUISITION & EVALUATION OF CLINICAL
NURSING SKILLS
Documented Practice:
The student will practice identified clinical nursing skills under the supervision of nursing
faculty in the campus laboratory setting. The practice session must be signed and dated
by the faculty who supervises the student.
Critical Elements:
Skills are evaluated according to the critical elements that have been identified by the
nursing faculty. These are the aspects of care which maintain client safety and/or
comfort.
Campus Laboratory Competency:
The student can independently plan and safely perform a nursing skill in a campus
laboratory setting. Skills are evaluated by Nursing Laboratory Faculty utilizing
established critical elements. These are the aspects of care which maintain client safety
and/or comfort and must be met 100% satisfactorily for a student to be declared
competent. Specific information regarding competency testing and deadline dates for
NURS 120 and 150 are included in the critical elements packet for each course.
Clinical Simulation:
The student will participate in scenario-based simulations under the supervision of
nursing faculty in the campus laboratory setting. The simulation experiences will present
the student with opportunities to apply assessment, critical thinking, communication,
and psychomotor skills in a realistic environment that simulates the clinical setting.
CAMPUS LABORATORY REQUIREMENTS AND TESTING
Students must follow all campus and nursing division protocols related to COVID-19.
Students may not utilize the practice lab, laboratory practical competency lab or clinical
simulation lab during their scheduled nursing lecture, lab, clinical, or SOFIA. If a student
signs up for an activity during these times, their name will be removed from the
schedule, and it will be recorded as an absence.
Campus laboratory component of NURS 120 and 150 courses requires:
• Cumulative participation average of 75% or greater.
24
• Attendance and participation in all scheduled labs and clinical simulations. A
recorded content presentation must be viewed, and two documented practices
must be completed following any lab absence. A make-up activity will be
assigned following clinical simulation absences.
• Completion of assigned documented practices.
• Successful completion of laboratory practical skill competencies for NURS 120
and NURS 150.
If any of the above requirements are not met, the student will have earned an
unsuccessful for the campus laboratory component of the course, resulting in course
failure (grade of F).
NURS 120 and NURS 150 Campus Laboratory Competencies:
The student can independently plan and safely perform a nursing skill in a campus
laboratory setting. This is evaluated by Nursing Laboratory Faculty utilizing established
critical elements which must be met with 100% accuracy.
Evaluation of Laboratory Practical Skill Competencies:
Documented practice is required prior to each skill competency evaluation. The
evaluation of skill competencies is completed outside of the student’s scheduled
laboratory time in a laboratory practical format. A minimum of two skills are evaluated
during the same appointment. An absence for a scheduled appointment, or cancellation
after 0700 on the day of the appointment, will count as an unsuccessful attempt for
achieving the laboratory practical. The maximum number of opportunities allowed to
meet the critical elements for a laboratory practical are included in the course critical
elements packet. The student must complete all components of the laboratory practical
with each testing opportunity. Should a student not meet the critical elements after the
number of attempts specified in the critical elements packet, or if they are not met by the
deadline date, a constructive agreement will be initiated. The constructive agreement
will allow the student one additional opportunity to successfully complete the laboratory
practical. If the terms of the constructive agreement are not met, the student will have
unsuccessfully completed the laboratory component of the course, resulting in course
failure (grade of F).
Any student who has not completed a laboratory practical by the deadline date will be
contacted via campus email. A constructive agreement, which includes the
recommended remedial actions and revised deadline date, will be attached to the email.
Failure to comply with the terms, conditions, and deadlines of the constructive
agreement will result in an unsuccessful for the campus laboratory component of the
course, resulting in course failure (grade of F).
Specific information regarding skill evaluations and deadline dates for NURS 120 and
150 are included in the critical elements packet for each course.
25
Nursing laboratory supply kit:
Students enrolled in NURS 120 and 150 must purchase a nursing laboratory supply kit
through the campus store; no substitutes will be allowed. A new kit must be purchased
by students who are repeating either of these courses.
Nursing laboratory fees:
There is a minimal laboratory fee charged for each semester. This fee is used to cover
the cost of non-reusable medical equipment used in the Teaching and Practice Lab
settings.
Lab Fees:
NURS 120: $30.00
NURS 150: $60.00
NURS 210: $16.00
NURS 250: $16.00
EVALUATION OF CLINICAL PERFORMANCE POLICY: SEE APPENDIX B
UNSAFE POLICY: SEE APPENDIX F
METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
A variety of methods of instruction are used throughout the nursing curriculum.
Methods used include, but are not limited to lecture, discussion, collaborative learning
groups, outside assignments, assigned reading, asynchronous online learning via
Blackboard/Evolve, computer and other audio-visual materials, and selected nursing
laboratory and clinical experiences.
METHODS OF EVALUATION:
Classroom:
- Graded assignments & Case studies*
- Tests & Quizzes*
- Comprehensive Final Exam*
- Medication Mathematic Competency Exam*
- Research Projects*
- Participation/Discussion*
- Posters/Presentations*
Nursing Laboratory:
- Laboratory practical skill competencies
Clinical Experience:
- Clinical Evaluation Tool
- Assessment Tools (course specific)
- Nursing Care Plans & Concept Maps
26
- Pathophysiology Mapping Tool*
- Medication Information Cards
- Observational Experience Assignments*
- Clinical Outcomes*
- Clinical Journals*
Research Projects:
Written or oral project assignments requiring documented research, when assigned,
should follow the criteria described in detail on the course’s Blackboard page. The
criterion for grading of each assignment is also located on the course’s Blackboard
page.
V. Associate Degree Nursing Program Outcomes – Standard 6.
Program Outcomes:
1. Eighty percent (80%) of graduates will pass the National Council Licensure Exam
(NCLEX-RN) on their first or subsequent attempts.
2. Ninety percent (90%) of the program graduates will be employed as a Graduate
or Registered Nurse and/or will be enrolled in a baccalaureate program within
nine (9) months of graduation.
3. Fifty percent (50%) of students will complete the program on time within two (2)
years of matriculation into the nursing programs.
27
SUNY MORRISVILLE
SCHOOL OF LIBRAL ARTS, SCIENCES and SOCITEY
DEPARTMENT OF NURSING
NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK
APPENDICES
ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING PROGRAM
Fall 2022– Spring 2023
The Associate Degree Nursing Program is
Accredited by the New York State Board of Regents and ACEN.
Information about the program is available from:
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc.
3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850
Atlanta, Georgia 30326
Phone: (404) 975-5000
FAX: (404) 975-5020
www.acenursing.org
28
Contents
APPENDIX A: Clinical Health Clearance Policy ..................................................... 29
APPENDIX B: Evaluation of Clinical Performance ................................................ 32
APPENDIX C: Progression and Remittance Policy ............................................... 33
APPENDIX D: Student Dress Code Policy ............................................................. 35
APPENDIX E: Testing Policy ................................................................................... 37
APPENDIX F: Unsafe Policy .................................................................................... 39
APPENDIX G: Clinical Evaluation Policy …………..……………………………… 43
APPENDIX H: Fall 2021 SUNY Morrisville and Facility COVD Policy ………….. 44
29
APPENDIX A: Clinical Health Clearance Policy
Clinical Clearance Policy:
Students must meet all aspects of the clinical clearance policy in order to attend clinical
rotations. Complete documentation of clinical clearance, per the requirements listed in
this policy, is required to attend any off-campus clinical experience. The deadline for
submitting and receiving clearance for clinical is August 15, 2023. Any student who fails
to comply will have their clinical rotation dropped from their schedule until complete
documentation of clinical clearance is submitted at which time re-enrollment in the
nursing clinical is subject to space available and the discretion of the clinical facilities.
Health Clearance Documentation: All the following health clearance requirements
must be on file at the Matthias Student Health Center August 15, 2023. Proof of current
CPR certification must be on file in the Nursing Office, Bailey Hall. If any item expires
during a clinical rotation, updated documentation must be on file before the student will
be allowed at the clinical site.
• Current physical examination completed within the last 12 months (updated
within 30 days of expiration)
• Current season Influenza vaccination
• Two (2) MMR’s
• Positive Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Titers
• Chicken Pox (documented history of disease, vaccination and or a varicella titer)
• Hepatitis B Vaccine or signed waiver. It is recommended that nursing students
become immunized with the Hepatitis B Vaccine prior to enrolling in the nursing
program. Bassett Healthcare Center requires all students to be immunized with
the Hepatitis B vaccine series. Students need documentation that all 3 doses
have been administered or that they are in the process of receiving them.
• Meningitis Vaccine or signed waiver
• Tetanus/diphtheria within 10 years
• Mantoux (PPD)/Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) updated annually
or follow up X-Ray updated every 2 years, or Quantiferon gold test updated
annually
• Complete COVID-19 vaccination series
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): In addition to documentation of health
clearance, students must also present evidence of current American Heart Association
CPR certification (BLS-Basic Life Support for Professional Rescuers). Students
must maintain CPR certification throughout all academic semesters. Documentation of
current CPR certification must be on file in the Bailey Hall Nursing Office with the
secretary three weeks prior to the first scheduled day of each clinical rotation and
whenever recertification occurs.
30
Essential Abilities: Nursing students are to adhere to the same public health laws and
facility regulations as employees at the assigned clinical site. Students must meet the
facility health requirements and have the ability to meet clinical objectives with or
without reasonable accommodations per the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Students must demonstrate the following essential abilities:
1. The strength and manual dexterity to perform in all laboratory and clinical settings
and to maintain the safety of clients without posing a threat to himself/herself.
2. The visual, hearing, and speech skills requisite to client assessment and
professional performance including reading, recording client information, performing
auscultatory exams, and performing any and all other diagnostic and therapeutic
procedures.
Allergy/Hypersensitivity: Students with a suspected or documented hypersensitivity
are responsible for being tested prior to entering the program or at the first signs of a
reaction. The test results and a written plan of accommodation/treatment signed by a
licensed heath care provider must accompany the annual physical examination and
anytime there is an adverse change in health status.
Any student developing, having, or describing symptoms consistent with an
allergy/sensitivity is required to have blood work (EX. Latex IgE) completed prior to
enrolling in nursing courses. Results are to be submitted to the Student Health Center.
Medical care, equipment/supplies, and diagnostic tests are at the student’s expense.
It is the responsibility of the student found to have a sensitivity to understand and
acknowledge:
1. The risks associated with continued clinical education and a healthcare career,
even when reasonable accommodations are made, and
2. The recommendations of their personal healthcare provider.
3. It is the student’s responsibility to have required emergent treatments (Ex.
EpiPen) on their person at all times.
Students with concerns should contact the Program Director, the Student Health
Center, and their own healthcare provider to discuss the implications of a
sensitivity/allergy. If a student with such a sensitivity/allergy decides to continue in the
nursing education program, the student is assuming any responsibility for the risks
posed by allergic reactions, which can range from mild symptoms to anaphylaxis and
death.
If a qualified healthcare practitioner determines a student is sensitive/allergic, the
nursing program cannot guarantee an allergy free environment.
31
Students with sensitivity are responsible for notifying the nursing office, course
faculty/clinical faculty or preceptors in writing of the need for additional accommodations
related to allergy sensitivity in laboratory/clinical experiences where exposures are
possible.
32
APPENDIX B: Evaluation of Clinical Performance
Clinical is a critical component of learning. In the clinical setting, the student represents
the nursing profession and SUNY Morrisville. The student is expected to be professional
and provide safe patient care. If a passing score is not achieved on the on the student’s
clinical evaluation tool, the student will earn a grade of “F” for the entire course.
If a patient is harmed directly or indirectly by your action or inaction, you may be
dismissed from the program and receive a grade of “F” in the course.
Students are expected to attend all clinical days as scheduled. All students who miss a
scheduled clinical day MUST attend a face to face make up day. This day may be on a
Saturday or a weekday evening during the semester, may be at any facility, and
students will need to provide their own transportation. The actual date and time will be
scheduled by the faculty. Attendance for the scheduled make-up clinical date will be
required. Students will receive a grade of zero (0) for missed clinical days until they
attend the make-up day, failure to attend the scheduled make-up clinical date will result
in a grade of zero (0) for the clinical day. Only one make-up is allowed per semester. A
second missed clinical day results in a clinical failure and subsequent course failure.
33
APPENDIX C: Progression and Readmission Policy
Progression refers to the sequential enrollment and continuation in required courses in
the nursing program.
Re-admission refers to students who have withdrawn from the nursing program and/or
college and are requesting to re-enroll in the nursing program.
Progression:
A final course grade of a C+ (74.45) is required to progress to the next sequential
nursing course. This includes all Core Nursing courses and non-core nursing courses.
Core Nursing courses include: NURS 120, NURS 150, NURS 210, NURS 250. Non-
core nursing courses include NURS 152, NURS 212, NURS 252, and NURS 251.
If a student drops or receives an unsuccessful grade in a core nursing course, the
following will apply (in addition to campus policies):
Students enrolled in the nursing program may repeat a core nursing course once (1
time) only. A maximum of one (1) repeated core courses is allowed. A subsequent
unsuccessful grade of a core nursing course will result in program dismissal and
prevent future re-admission to the nursing program.
If a student is unsuccessful in the same nursing course twice, they are dismissed from
the program.
The most recent grade for nursing coursework will stand. For example, if the student is
successful in NURS 120, has to re-take the course after a leave of absence and does
not pass, they are considered to not have passed NURS 120.
Refer to the college catalogue for required general education course progression.
Students may attend the nursing program at either the Morrisville or Norwich campus,
dependent upon course and space availability.
Re-Admission to the Nursing Program:
TEAS
The TEAS pre-admission test will be used for admission criteria. A composite score of
62 is required to be considered for re-admission. Additionally, a cumulative average of a
2.75 is required. Upon re-admittance, the student is subject to all new curriculum and
policy changes.
34
Returning Students
Should a Morrisville nursing student be successful in a core nursing course and miss
the following two consecutive semesters they must reapply to the program. If there are
seats available and they are accepted, it will be on a conditional basis providing they
demonstrate they are ready to progress to the next nursing course. If they are not ready
to progress, the student will need to repeat the last successfully completed course.
To demonstrate readiness to progress, there will be a readiness evaluation session
scheduled in May (for fall registration) and September (for spring registration). Students
seeking readmission after missing two consecutive semesters must attend the
appropriate session for evaluation of nursing and clinical reasoning skills.
All transfer nursing students seeking admission to the Morrisville nursing program must
also attend and be successful in the scheduled evaluation times. Transfer nursing
students will not be accepted above the NURS 150 course level.
Students that have been out of the program for more than two semesters must re-enter
the program from the beginning.
Repeating Students
If a student is unsuccessful in a core nursing course, they may attend the course when
offered the following academic year providing there are seats available. If students do
not attend at this time, they must re-enter the program from the beginning. Repeating
NURS 120 students will be ranked with the admitting class. All students wishing to
repeat a nursing course will be required to meet with their advisor and complete a
Nursing Student Success Plan.
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APPENDIX D: Student Dress Code Policy
All students must conform to the campus laboratory dress code as well as to the
specified dress code of each clinical facility. Additional information may be obtained
from your clinical instructor.
CAMPUS LABORATORY:
A clean white lab coat/jacket, non-revealing clothing, closed toe shoes and hair that is
off the collar, out of the face and secured are required for all campus laboratory
sessions including labs, lab practices, laboratory practical competency testing and
clinical simulations. Clinical and work uniforms (scrubs) are not allowed to be worn in
any of the campus laboratory settings.
CLINICAL AGENCIES:
The SUNY Morrisville College required clinical uniform consists of a clean unwrinkled
top and pants, to be worn with white or hunter green hose/socks. Uniforms are to be
complete, clean, and ironed. Undergarments and/or cleavage must not show when
leaning or bending over. Low-rise scrub pants and rolling down the waist band of scrub
pants is prohibited. Shoes must be close toed, clean, black, or white, and of non-porous
material. No clogs are allowed.
Uniforms will be purchased by the student and are the responsibility of the student to
obtain them upon delivery to campus. If the student is unavailable to pick up the
merchandise on the assigned day, uniforms will be stored in the nursing department for
1 year from the date of purchase.
The student will also need a stethoscope, watch with a second hand, bandage scissors,
penlight, pocket sized note pad, and a ballpoint pen (ink color varies with facility) and
the student is expected to bring these items to clinical each day.
PERSONAL HYGIENE FOR CLINICAL and LABORATORY SETTINGS:
All students must display acceptable hygiene which includes regular bathing,
shampooing of hair, use of deodorants, tooth brushing/mouthwash, and be aware of
odors on their clothing. Edentulous students are encouraged to obtain and wear
dentures. Chewing gum during clinical is prohibited. Students who are not appropriately
attired, odor-free or well-groomed will be excused from the clinical day from the clinical
setting without earning credit for the day.
Fingernails are to be cleaned, groomed and manicured. Clear, natural, unchipped nail
color will only be allowed. A maximum length one quarter inch above fingertip is
allowed. Acrylic/gel nails are prohibited. Hair must be off the collar and out of the face. It
must be secured. Hair color is limited to those found in nature. Male facial hair must be
short and neatly groomed.
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Piercings are limited to earlobes only, with a maximum of 2 post style earrings per ear.
No hoops or hanging earrings are allowed. Jewelry should be simple and close fitting.
Acceptable jewelry includes wristwatches, religious medallions or chains worn under the
uniform, wedding bands and/or rings. Elaborate or sharp rings should not be worn
because of their potential to injure patients. Visible tattoos may make it difficult to place
a student in the clinical setting due to facility policies.
All students must have a SUNY Morrisville College photo identification badge. These
are obtained from the ID desk in the campus bookstore. Student ID badges will be worn
in clinical setting at the V-neck or on the upper right side of the top. The badge with the
student’s full name must be visible at all times while working in the clinical setting and
are a mandatory requirement by regulatory agencies and New York State Department
of Health.
This dress code applies to all nursing students at every level. Exceptions to the dress
code can only be made for documented disability, religious, or cultural reasons. When
clinical assignments do not require the student uniform, students will dress in
professional attire with the SUNY Morrisville Nursing Student name tag. Students not
complying with this policy will not be allowed to participate in clinical.
When attending clinical at off campus sites, students must abide by the agency’s
smoking policy.
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APPENDIX E: Testing Policy
METHODS OF TESTING:
Methods of testing may include, but are not limited to: computerized examinations,
individual testing, open book/open notebook testing, testing without advanced notice i.e.
“pop quizzes,” short papers and essays, use of electronic devices i.e. “clickers”, and
other similar means.
All testing policies apply to all methods of examinations, including make-up exams and
exams taken at alternative locations and times.
During tests and quizzes students are only allowed to have the following items on their
desks/tables: writing utensils, test scrap paper (provided by proctor), and a simple
calculator.
Any test scrap paper will be submitted to faculty at the end of the exam.
A faculty approved privacy screen/filter/shield is required for all computerized
examinations. Failure to apply a privacy screen will result in the inability to complete the
exam at that time, the student will then be graded accordingly.
All backpacks, books, cell phones turned off, any electronic device that can send or
receive data, coats and other belongings are to be left in a specified area in the
classroom as designated by faculty and may be retrieved at the conclusion of the test.
Students are encouraged to leave valuable items at home or locked in their cars.
Earplugs are allowed. The faculty are not responsible for items brought into the
classroom.
During testing, bathroom breaks are restricted unless a medical need exists. If a student
requires a bathroom break during testing they will be escorted by a faculty or a faculty
designee. Students may access a bathroom at any time prior to or after testing.
GENERAL TESTING POLICIES:
The scheduled tests and quizzes have predetermined dates for each nursing course as
listed in specific course syllabi. The schedule of dates will be included in each syllabus
which is distributed to students during the first class of each nursing course.
All tests and quizzes are scheduled to begin at the assigned start time during class and
will have an announced ending time. The student will not be allowed to take the exam
five (5) minutes after the start time if not present or unprepared for any reason.
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For a quiz, this means forfeiting the opportunity to take the quiz. There are no make-up
quizzes or focused review tests.
Notification within one (1) hour of the exam start time is required or the student will earn
a grade of zero.
Students must directly notify the course instructor/faculty using campus email. Failure to
notify faculty as directed above will earn a grade of zero for that test.
If absent or unable to test for any reason, students are allowed a maximum of one (1)
make-up unit exam per semester. Make-up not completed before next exam earns a
grade of zero.
It is the student’s responsibility to contact faculty via email to schedule a make-up
before the next scheduled exam. The date, time, and location of the make-up exam
will be determined by the faculty.
All exam policies will pertain to all students, including those with accommodations. All
exam policies will pertain to all exams, include make up exams.
Questions are in multiple choice format as well as alternate format similar to those
questions on the NCLEX exams and can include multiple response, fill-in-the-blank, hot
spots, chart/exhibits format, ordered response, audio item, graphic options, drug dose
calculations and/or matching.
The nursing administrative assistant is not authorized to give out any grade information.
All comprehensive final exams will be given during the final examination week. Final
course grades will be posted on the Web for Students from the Registrar’s Office.
Any student wishing to review or discuss a grade on any assignment (including tests or
quizzes) may only do so for 21 days after receiving the grade for said assignment.
There is no review of the final exam under any circumstance.
MEDICATION/ MATHEMATICS COMPETENCY TESTING
The nursing faculty will administer a Medication Mathematic Competency Exam to all
students in NURS 120, NURS 150, NURS 210 and NURS 250. The grade which
establishes course competency is defined in each course syllabus and must be
obtained for successful completion of each course. Exam dates will be listed in each
individual course syllabus.
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The student will have 3 opportunities to demonstrate competency. Med math exam
attempts must be taken in sequential order.
If unsuccessful, after three attempts the student will then earn a failing grade for the
course.
The use of a simple calculator is permitted during exams. Scientific calculators and
handheld computers including cell phones will not be allowed.
MEDICATION MATH COMPETENCIES:
NURS 120
Med-Math
Competency: 85%
NURS 150
Med-Math
Competency: 90%
NURS 210
Med-Math
Competency: 95%
NURS 250
Med-Math
Competency: 95%
KAPLAN TESTING PROGRAM AND REQUIREMENTS:
Kaplan is a comprehensive standardized testing program, with tools that can help
students be successful in nursing school, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare
more efficiently for the NCLEX-RN examination. These examinations also increase
confidence and familiarity with content. Assessments and reviews are designed in
accordance with the NCLEX-RN test plan. A second examination of each test may be
offered through the semester to allow the student an opportunity to review content
missed and therefore increase retention.
All proctored Kaplan exams offer:
• Question formats and content aligned with the latest NCLEX-RN exam blueprint
• High stakes testing conditions to improve student confidence and minimize test
anxiety
• Dashboards and reports that clearly identify each student’s area of strength and
weakness
• Personalized remediation, provided in interactive formats and in manageable
amounts, for further review prior to taking NCLEX exam.
The following examinations are offered through the course curriculum, please refer to
specific course syllabi:
• Fundamentals
• Psychiatric/Mental Health
• Maternity
• Medical/Surgical
• Management
• Pharmacology
• RN Exit Exam
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APPENDIX F: Unsafe Policy
The student must practice safely in the clinical setting for each clinical experience. The
criterion listed on the clinical evaluation tool indicates minimal safe clinical practice.
Behavior that is considered to be unsafe, as determined by faculty, any action or
inaction on the part of the student threatens the physical or emotional safety of the
individual being cared for during the clinical experience. An unsafe behavior will be
addressed by faculty completing a Notice of Clinical Unsafe form. This form will detail
the unsafe behavior and assigned remediation. The form will be discussed with the
student and signed by both the faculty member and the student, and a copy is sent to
the Director of the program.
The student will be unable to return to the clinical setting until remediation, as assigned
by faculty, has occurred. At the discretion of the faculty a student may be relieved of
their assignment for the day and evaluated accordingly on the clinical evaluation tool.
The faculty have identified two (2) as being the maximum number of unsafe practices,
which can occur in a semester during NURS 150 and NURS 210. The maximum
occurrences of a clinical unsafe is one (1) for NURS 120 and NURS 250.
I In certain instances, a student who earns one unsafe, as defined by one of the
following, may fail the course (grade of F). These instances have been defined by the
faculty as:
• An incident which results in the patient requiring a higher level of care
• Violations of HIPAA (at the discretion of the Director and facility)
• No call no shows to any clinical experience.
• Lack of accountability for nursing actions in accordance with the American Nurse
Association Code of Ethics.
Any student who fails a nursing course based on the “unsafe” policy described above,
will be dismissed, and cannot be readmitted to the nursing program.
A student’s safe performance must include, but not limited to, the following criteria:
1. Interprets written information and verbal directions correctly.
2. Student is medically cleared and physically able to attend clinical per the SUNY
Morrisville and facility requirements.
3. Conducts all interactions professionally
4. Reports changes in client’s condition promptly.
5. Acts to prevent accidents/injury to client, personnel, and self.
6. Seeks help in areas of implementation when warranted.
7. Communicates therapeutically and acts in accordance with the client’s concerns
and best interests.
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8. Accomplishes clinical activities within a reasonable and efficient time frame.
9. Demonstrates accountability for nursing actions in accordance to the American
Nurse Association Code of Ethics.
10. Follows the six rights of medication preparation and/or administration.
11. Follows HIPAA regulations.
12. Arrives on time and prepared for clinical care with adequate communication to
faculty in advance if tardy or absent.
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Appendix G: Clinical Evaluation Policy and Procedure
Students are expected to attend all clinical days as scheduled, either in-person or
remotely (as assigned). Students will receive a grade of zero (0) for the first missed
clinical day. A second missed clinical day results in a clinical failure and subsequent
course failure.
Weekly completion of the following clinical documentation elements will be completed in
the online clinical platform as assigned by the instructor:
• Clinical Evaluation Tool
• Client Assessment
• Nursing Care Plans/Concept Maps
• Observational Experiences Learning Activities
• Weekly Clinical Outcomes
• Case Studies
• Medication Cards
Clinical assignments and performances are scored separately in the following
manner:
• Adherence to all SUNY Morrisville and Clinical Institutional policies and procedures.
• Adherence to the clinical absenteeism and unsafe performance policies.
• Clinical performance evaluations demonstrating continuing improvement with an
overall satisfactory completion (Refer to your course Clinical Evaluation Tool for specific
grading information).
Progression through the clinical course is based upon meeting these essential
conditions.
If any of the above criterion are not met, the student will earn a grade of “F” for the
entire course. In the event of patient harm (directly or indirectly) the student may be
dismissed from the program and receive a grade of “F” in the course. Students should
review the Nursing Student Handbook for further details.
