Student Handbook Standards of Excellence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Respect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Representing the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Dealing with Difficult Situations or Complaints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Teambuilding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Guidelines for Professional Behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Ethical Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Legal Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Accountability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Standards of Professional Nursing Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Advocacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Confidentiality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Lifelong, Self-directed Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 CHS Standards of Appearance Examples - Clinical Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 CHS Standards of Appearance Examples - Business Attire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 MSON Acad emic Success Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 MSON Admission and Progression Related to Carolinas Healthcare System (CHS) Policy on Rehire Status and Criminal Background/Fingerprint Checks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Criminal Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 MSON Request for Accommodation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Student Request for Accommodation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Essential Functions of a Mercy Nursing Student . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Professional Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Agreement to Verify Color Assessments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 MSON Complaint Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Hearing and Appeals Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Fund Raising Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 National Student Nurses’ Association, Inc. Code of Academic and Clinical Conduct . . . . 23 Challenge Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Skills Validation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Testing Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Faculty Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Challenge Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Peer Tutoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Confidentiality Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 HIPAA Privacy Student Sanctions nd Corrective Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Mercy School of Nursing Curriculum Framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Clinical Performance Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Administration of Medications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Scope of Practice for Student Nurses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Bylaws of the Student Government Association (SGA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Title and Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Advisor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Offices and Duties of Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Nominations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Meetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Amendments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Standing Committee(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 General Guidelines for Student Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Emergency Action Plan for Mercy School of Nursing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Hazardous Materials Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Management of Hazardous Chemicals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Managements of Infectious Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

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Carolinas HealthCare SystemStandards of Excellence

(A) Respect 1. Knock before entering someone's room or office. 2. Make eye contact. 3. Introduce yourself to others and be helpful. Give your name and position title. Use statements,

such as, "how may I help you?", "please" and "thank you." 4. When speaking with someone, use the individual's formal name (i.e., Dr., Mr., Mrs., Ms.). 5. Listen actively to questions and comments. 6. Respond to requests or call lights in a timely fashion. 7. Keep individuals informed and allow an opportunity for questions prior to proceeding. 8. Take the time to learn about the culture and differences of your customers; demonstrate sensitivity

and understanding. 9. Maintain your customer's dignity by controlling your voice volume, choosing meaningful words

and using a respectful, friendly tone of voice. 10. When approached by a customer, put aside work promptly or offer explanations if you cannot. 11. Keep patient and employee information confidential by following privacy standards and the

System of Integrity.

Patient Specific 12. Give the patient your full attention; avoid engaging in conversations with other staff while with

a patient. 13. When interacting with a patient, provide privacy. 14. Place all lights, telephone and other personal items within easy reach of the patient. 15. When entering a patient's room, if patient is alert, ask what you may do for him or her. When

leaving the room, ask the patient if he/she prefers the door opened or closed.

(B) Representing the System 1. Greet others immediately and make eye contact. Speak first with a friendly greeting. 2. Provide clear directions. 3. If there is going to be a delay, keep individuals informed of the reasons in a positive manner. 4. Demonstrate an attitude of helpfulness. 5. Wear your name badge on the lapel or chest level or above so name and department are visible. 6. Dress in accordance with the Carolinas HealthCare System Standards of Appearance. 7. Avoid being loud or boisterous in the presence of customers. 8. Take personal responsibility to resolve problems quickly and efficiently. 9. When a customer presents a problem, create a win/win outcome by working with the customer

to solve the problem, showing concern for both the customer and CHS. 10. Take initiative to maintain a clean, organized environment.

(C) CommunicationFace-to-Face 1. Communicate verbally in a clear and concise manner. 2. Give appropriate eye contact and exhibit open body language. 3. Make certain people assuming your responsibilities are well informed. 4. Conduct personal discussions only in a private area. 5. Share confidential patient or other information only on a need to know basis and in private. 6. Focus full attention on the speaker. 7. Provide affirmations and reflect understanding of what is said. 8. Demonstrate empathy. 9. Show patience and avoid interrupting.

Telephone 1. Be courteous at all times. 2. Answer the telephone within three rings. 3. When placing and answering calls, identify your department and name (i.e., "Nursing Administration, Jane Smith.") 4. Use a pleasant tone of voice. 5. Use the caller's name, when known. 6. Avoid eating, drinking or chewing gum while on the phone. 7. If you need to put someone on hold, use the "hold" feature. Ask the caller if he/she will please

hold, give a progress report every 30 - 60 seconds and thank the caller for holding. 8. When transferring calls, explain to the caller what is being done and describe the nature of the

call to the individual to whom the call is transferred. Provide the caller the name and extensionof the party to whom the call will be transferred.

9. When taking a message, provide the caller with an approximate time the call may be returned.Ensure the message includes date, name, message, time, phone number and signature. Clearlyrepeat the information to show you understand it.

10. Return messages within 24 hours. 11. Acknowledge anyone who may walk up while on the phone by making eye contact and nodding.

Written Communication/E-mail 1. Be cautious about sending e-mails / memos that may be taken out of context or contain sensitive

or confidential information. 2. Respond in a timely manner to requests for information or decisions. 3. Do not use e-mail as a replacement for face-to-face conversation. 4. Send e-mail messages with descriptive subject lines. 5. State expectations clearly and precisely by writing the purpose of the message. 6. Keep messages and formatting simple and short to avoid confusion and wasted time. 7. Avoid using all capital letters and excessive bolding or underlining. 8. Any background graphics must comply with the CHS Acceptable Use Policy. 9. Write concisely and in a factual style, using short paragraphs and avoiding slang. 10. Carefully review every written document and use spellcheck before sending or distributing. 11. Before responding to problematic e-mails, take time to think through your response.

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(D) Dealing with Difficult Situations or Complaints 1. Remain calm and listen with empathy when someone complains. 2. Avoid becoming defensive. 3. Demonstrate an understanding of problems or concerns without agreeing or taking sides. Focus

on the problem and thank the individual for bringing it to your attention. 4. Ensure that you understand what the individual wants. Reflect what you hear being said (i.e. "so

what you need is ...") 5. Solve the problem. If it is something you cannot resolve, find someone who can help. Stay with

the customer problem until it has been handed off to an accountable person. 6. Communicate with the person what will be done to correct the problem. Follow up to ensure

satisfaction.

(E) Teambuilding 1. Work together with other employees, physicians, patients' families and representatives from other

organizations to create and maintain a spirit of teamwork and goodwill within and betweendepartments and facilities.

2. When you recognize positive behavior, reward it with a word or note of thanks. 3. Demonstrate pride in CHS by discussing facilities, services, policies, departments and people in

a positive manner. 4. Avoid making excuses or blaming other people. Go out of your way to help other people. Get

help if needed. 5. Consider the needs of other departments / shifts (i.e. provide information to affected parties

regarding schedule delays, know how other departments function on your behalf and how youractions may affect them).

6. Do not be afraid to ask questions. 7. Discuss department problems in appropriate private settings with the department's management

staff or in staff meetings. 8. Offer assistance to others. Assume additional responsibilities, as appropriate, to assist team

members. Share knowledge with team members to improve group performance. 9. Work as a team to resolve issues. Involve others who may help.

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Mercy School Of Nursing Guidelines For Professional Behavior

Students are expected to exhibit professional behavior as outlined in this document. The "client" refersto the patient’s, family and friends.

Ethical standards 1. Reports errors promptly. 2. Demonstrates personal integrity. 3. Respects client rights, dignity, beliefs and customs. 4. Demonstrates courtesy, compassion and tact.

Legal standards 5. Is physically and mentally fit to carry out assigned responsibilities. 6. Maintains competence in nursing. 7. Recognizes situations where supervision is required. 8. Protects client from abuse, neglect or abandonment. 9. Takes appropriate action when client safety is endangered. 10. Accepts and delegates responsibilities within the legal scope of practice. 11. Wears name badge and introduces self to client by name and title.

Accountability 12. Demonstrates primary commitment to the client. 13. Maintains standards of personal conduct that reflect credit upon self, the school, hospital and

profession. 14. Assumes accountability for own actions. 15. Is reliable in following through on responsibilities. 16. Reports promptly for clinical experiences. 17. Uses established procedures to notify appropriate persons when unable to meet responsibilities. 18. Refrains from using abusive, foul or offensive language and behavior in the professional setting.

Standards of professional nursing practice 19. Maintains standards of nursing care. 20. Follows institutional policies and procedures. 21. Uses accepted channels of communication. 22. Refrains from discussing own problems with clients or personnel in the professional setting. 23. Contributes to a positive learning and practice environment.

Advocacy 24. Works cooperatively with health team members on behalf of the client. 25. Insures that clients receive information needed for participation in own healthcare management. 26. Provides care regardless of sociocultural or economic status of client, personal attributes or nature

of health problem.

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Confidentiality 27. Honors client right to privacy. 28. Protects information of a confidential nature. 29. Obtains client permission to observe care when not directly involved in that care. 30. Accesses medical records only of clients for whom direct care is assigned.

Lifelong, self-directed learning 31. Possesses knowledge and skill to execute assigned care. 32. Seeks to improve identified weaknesses. 33. Participates in continuing education to meet personal and professional goals.

SourcesAmerican Nurses Association (2002). Code of ethics for nursesAmerican Hospital Association (2003). Patient Care PartnershipInternational Council of Nurses (2005). Code of ethics

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Dress Code

A complete student clinical uniform for female students consists of a clean blue pinfeather monogrammedtunic, navy uniform pants or navy uniform skirt, black or white socks or hose and plain black or whiteleather shoes. The socks must match the shoes. Flesh colored hose must be worn with the skirt uniform.The uniform skirt length must be within one inch of the knee. Male students will wear a clean bluepinfeather monogrammed tunic, navy uniform pants, black or white socks and plain black or whiteleather shoes. A plain white T-shirt may be worn under the tunic top. A white lab coat or a white scrubjacket in good repair may be worn with the uniform. Cardigan sweaters are not permitted. Unadorned,low top, all leather athletic shoes or leather clogs with straps are acceptable. Shoes must be clean and ingood repair. The cardkey badge is considered part of the uniform and must be worn above the waist andon the outermost garment for ease in reading. All students will have bandage scissors, watch with a secondhand, black ink pens, penlight and stethoscope.

The jewelry permitted includes class, engagement or wedding rings (A maximum of 3 rings for bothhands). Persons with pierced ears may wear post style earrings with the size no larger than 5mm indiameter. The maximum number of earrings will be two pairs. No other visible body piercing is allowed.A short length necklace worn inside the uniform is permissible.

Clean, neatly-trimmed beards and mustaches are permitted. Hair style and color should be conservative.Neatly arranged hair should be no longer than the collar or secured behind the shoulders in a style notto interfere with client care or pose an infection control hazard. Conservative clips are acceptable.Excessive make-up or perfume is not permitted. Unchipped nail polish may be worn. Acceptable nailpolish colors are clear, white or flesh colored. Artificial nails are prohibited. Nails should not extendbeyond the tip of the finger. Visible tattoos must be covered.

Students are expected to abide by the dress regulations of CMC-Mercy's division of nursing, as well asthe specific guidelines provided by other agencies used for clinical experience. A student who isinappropriately attired may be dismissed from the clinical area.

Whenever students are in the hospital or any CHS affiliated property or activity it is important to presentthe image of a professional. When picking up assignments or when being oriented to the clinical unit,street clothes in good repair are to be worn under a white lab coat with identification badge. In any areaof the hospital, shoes must be worn with hose or socks and be neat and well fitting. Flip-flop style sandals,shorts, mini-skirts, jeans, tank tops or tops revealing cleavage may not be worn in the hospital. Chewinggum is not permitted. For further information about the hospital dress code, refer to the hospitalpersonnel manual.

Students are expected to use good judgment when dressing for classes. Clothes should be neat andcomfortable. Please keep in mind temperature variations and either dress in layers or bring a sweater toadjust attire to the climate of the classroom. Shorts and/or miniskirts no shorter than two inches abovethe knee may be worn to class. Shorts and miniskirts are not to be worn in the hospital.

Students should consult school personnel if there are any questions about these regulations.

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CHS Standards of Appearance Examples

Clinical Attire Required at Patient/Resident Care Facilities

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Uniforms Patient gowns Color and/or design as approved byindividual facility unitmanager/Administrator

Knickers, crop pants, stretchpants, shorts, jeans (any color)

Uniform pants

Short/mini skirtsUniform dresses, jumpers or splitskirts (at or above knee)

Non-white T-shirts or T-shirts notthe same color as the approveduniform color

Top or blouse

Uniform jumpsuits

Cardigan sweaters

Lab Coats/Scrub Jackets Color/style as approved byindividual facility unitmanager/administrator

Scrub Attire Hospital issued scrubs unlessrequired by department

If allowed, color/style as approved byindividual facility unitmanager/administrator

Socks Patterns, designs on socks Anklet socks - plain white or colormatching uniform

UndergarmentsThongs, bright colors or patternsvisible under uniform

White, beige or flesh coloredundergarments

Color, designs or graffiti Clean, plain white undershirt underscrub top

Categories Unacceptable examples Acceptable examples

Footwear Sandals, open toe shoesColor/style appropriate for area andapproved by individual administrator

Flip flopsSolid color athletic shoes/uniformleather clogs

Open back shoes/heels

Hiking boots, cowboy boots

Crocs or other shoes without solidtop surface

Jewelry

Watches, Bracelets

Must not dangle in patient carespace (ex., charms, dangling clasps)

Watches and close-fitting braceletsare allowed

Necklaces Must not dangle in patient care area Short length, worn inside uniform

RingsMaximum of three rings for bothhands (wedding set counts as onering)

EarringsLimited to two earrings per ear,second must be a post

Other Piercings Visible pierced jewelry on bodyparts other than ears (nose, tongue,etc.) not allowed

Pins, Stickers Professional

Promotional pins not allowed (ex:drug companies, competitorbusinesses)

May be worn as part of the uniform(ex: school or nursing, honor society,disease awareness month, etc.)

SeasonalMust not be offensive, cannot affixon ID badge surface (see ADM270.06)

One pin may be worn if moderate insize

CHS Must comply with ADM 270.06Ex: United Way, Children's MiracleNetwork, Service Recognition,Values in Action

CHS Standards of Appearance Examples

Clinical Attire Required at Patient/Resident Care Facilities

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CHS Standards of Appearance Examples

Business Attire Required at Patient/Resident Care Facilities

Categories Unacceptable examples Acceptable examples General Attire Suit or sports coat/slacks, with tie for men

Suit (skirt or pants) or dress for women

Shirts/Tops/Dresses Halter tops Conservative styles Crop tops Shirts with collars

Sporty sweaters Professional pullover sweaters, cardigans,matched sweater sets for women

Camisoles Allowed if covered by jacket in public areas

Sleeveless tops/dresses Allowed if covered by jacket in public areas

Sundresses Allowed if covered by jacket in public areas

Low necklines, displays ofcleavage Off the shoulder garments

Pants/Skirts Denim (all colors) Dress slacks

Lycra/spandex Skirts

Leather/vinyl Pants length at mid-calf or lower,professional look and fabric

LeggingsTight pants

Mini skirts

Footwear Sandals Pumps, peep toe and open toe dress shoes

Open back slides Closed and open toe sling backs, openback heels, clogs

Flip flops Flats/loafers

Hiking boots, cowboy boots Dress boots

Athletic shoes Unless allowed by department

Casual Clothing Generally NOT ALLOWED

T-shirts May be worn as undershirt

Logo/graffiti clothing CHS logo items (special events), logo nolarger than 3 x 5 index card

Denim NOT ALLOWED - any color

Mercy School of Nursing Acad emic Success Plan

The purpose of the Academic Success Plan (ASP) is to intervene intensively, continuously and early withat-risk students. Examples of students who are defined as at-risk could be students who: • Have failed a previous nursing course and are repeating that course. • Have passed the previous nursing course with an 81 or below. • Are failing the current nursing course.

Implementation • The ASP will be implemented in each nursing course. • Course faculty will assist in the following: 1. Meeting with assigned student for test review after each test using the grid. 2. Attendance at an academic success class in which attendance is mandatory and roll is taken. 3. Referral to the employee assistance program for financial counseling if needed. 4. Guidance in selection of a study group, study skills or test taking skills. 5. Regular follow-up meetings with assigned student which are documented on the ASP action plan.

Documentation • Each course will use the ASP cover sheet, action plan and test grid. • Documentation will be placed in the students’ course folder. • Complete the action plan at the first meeting, • Subsequent meetings are documented on the back of the action plan.

ProbationStudents will be placed on probation according to policy when their grades indicate risk of failure.

DiscontinuationStudents who show grade improvement may be discontinued from the plan but are welcome to continueif it is deemed helpful by the student. Documentation on the action plan will no longer be required oncestudent is taken off the plan.

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Mercy School of Nursing Admission and Progression Related to CarolinasHealthcare System Policy on Rehire Status and Criminal

Background/Fingerprint Checks

Mercy School of Nursing will admit and allow students to progress and participate in a clinical experience only ifeligibility requirements are met and demonstrated. Eligibility requirements include but are not limited to an acceptablecriminal background check and eligibility for rehire by CHS.

Students found to be ineligible for rehire by CHS may not begin a class at Mercy School of Nursing or participatein the CHS loan forgiveness program. Mercy School of Nursing applications for admission, readmission andrecruitment will contain disclosures stating that those not eligible for hire/rehire by CHS may be excluded fromconsideration for admission to the school.

Upon the decision by the admissions and promotions committee to offer an applicant admission or wait list statusto the program, and upon receipt of the applicant’s confirmation form and fee, the Director of Student Serviceselectronically sends the applicant’s name and social security number to CHS human resources. Applicants who areineligible for rehire or who have a “maybe” status are notified of their status by the Director of Student Services givenspecific contact information for appropriate CHS human resource personnel and encouraged to initiate a requestfor a change in status. The applicant is told by admissions personnel exactly how long his/her space will be reserved,if at all, pending a status determination. The length of time will be dependent upon time remaining until thesemester/course begins.

Monthly, a list of all active students is sent to human resources by the Director of Student Services for verification ofcontinued eligibility for rehire by CHS. Students who are found to be “ineligible” or “maybe” are subject to dismissalfrom the clinical arena. Human resources personnel will study the circumstances related to the termination todetermine whether the offense may warrant loss of clinical access. The following options may be considered. Humanresources may overturn the “not eligible for rehire” determination. Human resources may determine the offense doesnot pose a threat to patients or the clinical facility and allow the student to remain in the clinical setting. The studentis counseled and no further CHS loans are approved. Rehire status is unchanged. In all other cases, a three-personpanel comprised of a representative from CHS human resources, a representative from CHS Administration and arepresentative from Mercy School of Nursing administration will meet to make the final determination on continuedclinical access. Its decision is final. A decision to allow continued access will require student advisement and terminationof CHS loan. The panel may place additional stipulations on clinical placement. If the decision is made to terminateclinical access, the student will be administratively dismissed with a final grade of “W” or “F”, depending on academicstanding at the time of dismissal. The student dismissed from clinical may remain enrolled in non-clinical courses.

Loss of internship or field/clinical experience access is the result of employer-employee actions, any related appealsand grievances are to be addressed through CHS employee routes rather than through school’s due process.

Criminal Background

Students found to have an unacceptable background as determined through a criminal background andfingerprint check and interpreted by CHS steering committee (convened by CHS human resources) may notbegin any class at Mercy School of Nursing and may not participate in the CHS loan forgiveness program.

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Mercy School of Nursing applications for admission, readmission and recruitment will contain disclosures thatfindings on a criminal background and fingerprint check may prevent final admission of an accepted candidate.When the admissions and promotions committee has made tentative “accept” decisions, the Director of StudentServices will require each candidate to submit a disclosure waiver and personal information sheet and a backgroundsearch fee (except as noted below). The student charge for the background search is set annually by the school andis based on the approximate per-search charge experienced by CHS. CHS human resources will conduct abackground check on all applicants not more than six months prior to matriculation. The check will consist of asocial security trace and criminal history. All background checks will be conducted in accordance with the FairCredit Reporting Act and require a signed release by the applicant. The signed release is a condition of enrollmentin clinical courses.

Employee Health will fingerprint applicants accepted for enrollment within 60 days of enrollment. If a fingerprintcheck reveals illegal or questionable behavior prior to enrollment, the student will be denied enrollment and theadmission deposit and any prepaid tuition is refunded. A student whose fingerprint check results are not returnedby the semester start will be encouraged to accept a later start date. If the student prefers to accept the risk ofconditional enrollment, the student must sign a waiver agreeing that the standard refund policy will be used if thestudent is dismissed from the program due to the illegal or questionable behavior.

The applicant will be advised of background findings and will be provided the opportunity to resolve anydiscrepancies or errors with the vendor. In the case of questionable findings, the CHS human resources steeringcommittee will determine whether clinical placement will be available to the applicant. The steering committeemay consider the following factors: the level of seriousness of the crime, the date of the crime, the age of the personat the time of the incident, the connection between the criminal conduct of the person and clinical duties, theperson’s prison, jail, probation, parole, rehabilitation and employment records since the date the crime wascommitted. The school and the applicant are notified of the findings. If CHS declines to offer the candidate clinicalprivileges, the school will withdraw admission of the candidate and refund the admission deposit, if paid, and anyprepaid tuition.

Background checks are to be conducted within six months of starting the program. A lapse in attendance of greaterthan six months will require another background check, for which the student will be charged. Regardless of theelapsed time, the candidate must verify, upon matriculation, that no criminal charges have been filed in theintervening time since the search was done. Current employees of CHS may be exempt from the backgroundcheck if their background was searched upon initial employment or subsequent re-employment. That determinationwill be made by the CHS student services liaison. The applicant receiving an employee exemption must remainemployed until not greater than six months prior to starting clinical experience, and must verify upon matriculationthat no criminal charges, convictions, or sanctions have been filed since the initial search was done. While thevendor’s background findings are subject to clarification and correction, a finding of ineligibility for clinicalplacement by CHS based on those findings is not subject to appeal, nor is a denial of admission to the collegebased on ineligibility for clinical placement.

Enrolled students must report, in writing, any charge, conviction, or sanction to the director of student services.That notification must occur at least 24 hours prior to the next clinical class or field study/clinical day after thecharges are filed or after the conviction or sanction occurs, or immediately if the charge/conviction/sanction occurswithin 24 hours of the next clinical day. Failure to report a charge, conviction, or sanction will be grounds forimmediate termination of participation in clinical placement. Charges will be considered by CHS human resourcessteering committee. Any subsequent termination would be considered an administrative dismissal with the gradeof record being “W” or “F”, depending on academic standing at the time of dismissal. The CHS loan is terminated

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Mercy School of Nursing Request for Accommodation

This form is provided in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Civil RightsRestoration Act of 1987 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which creates rights forstudents with disabilities who choose to pursue an education in healthcare.

Step 1. Review the Essential Functions of a Mercy Nursing Student, prepared by the Southern Council onCollegiate Education for Nursing, which applies to all students of Mercy School of Nursing.

Step 2. Complete the Student Request for Accommodation. On the left side of the table on the followingpage, list the functions for which you need accommodation to perform. In the column on the right of the table,list the accommodations requested to perform optimally. Use additional pages for explanation or detail.

Step 3. Obtain recent (within the last three years) Professional Certification of need for accommodationfrom an appropriate licensed professional, such as a physician, psychologist or counselor. The certificationmust include assessment findings and specific accommodation recommendations. The certification assessmentfindings must be written on letterhead and include the evaluator’s name, title and professional credentials.

Step 4. Submit student request and professional certification to the associate dean at least three weeks inadvance of enrollment. This information is confidential and is not furnished to any outside source withoutthe student’s permission. Additional information may be requested. The associate dean determines the abilityof the school to provide the accommodations requested. Instructors and appropriate staff are advised ofapproved accommodations. The associate dean provides the student in writing the approved accommodationand student responsibilities.

Step 5. Follow through on student responsibilities. A student who does not submit the required documentation,rejects the offer of reasonable accommodation or does not follow through on planning for accommodation isnot considered to be a qualified individual with a disability.

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Student Request for Accommodation

Name: ________________________________________________________________________(Last) (First) (MI)

Address: _______________________________________________________________________

City: _____________________________________ State: ____________________ Zip: _______

Telephone: (______) ______________________ E-mail: ________________________________

Need for Accommodation

I understand that: 1. My request will go before the associate dean to determine reasonable accommodation. 2. An appropriate licensed professional must provide a specific recommendation for accommodation

along with supporting assessment findings. 3. I have the right to appear on my behalf and present additional information to the associate dean. 4. I have the right to appeal to the dean if I feel that accommodation is not reasonable.

I agree that the certifying professional has my permission to speak with the associate dean to discussmy academic status and progress.

Student Signature ____________________________________________ Date _______________

Function Accommodation Requested

1.

2.

3.

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Essential Functions of a Mercy Nursing

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Component Definition Examples

Critical thinking/cognitiveabilities

Decision-making ability sufficient forclinical judgment, ability to calculatemathematic problems, read andcomprehend complex material,organize responsibilities, makedecisions in time-limited situations

Identify cause-effect relationships inclinical situations, collect and analyzedata in problem solving, develop plansfor nursing care, interpret data frommedical record, calculate drug dosages,assess patient complaints, respondappropriately to changing patientsituations, prioritize patient care

Interpersonal skills

Ability sufficient to interact withindividuals, families and groups from avariety of social, emotional, culturaland intellectual backgrounds

Establish relationships with patientsand healthcare team members

Communication skillsAbility sufficient for interaction withothers in verbal and written form

Explain treatments procedures, initiatehealth teaching, document nursingactions and patient responses

Mobility

Physical abilities sufficient to move fromroom to room and maneuver in smallspaces, stand and walk for eight hours,bend and reach

Make frequent trips between workstations and patient rooms, safely movearound in patient rooms/workstations/treatment areas

Weight-bearingAbility to lift and transfer patients andequipment safely up to 51 pounds

Position and move patients who havelimited or no mobility, moveequipment

Motor skillsGross and fine motor abilitiessufficient to provide safe and effectivepatient care

Calibrate and use equipment, performskill procedures, use exam gloves,administer cardiopulmonaryresuscitation, write legibly in medicalrecord

HearingAuditory ability sufficient to monitorand assess patient needs

Hear monitor alarms and emergencysignals, auscultate heart, lung andblood pressure sounds

Vision

Visual ability sufficient for observationand assessment necessary in nursingcare and can recognize different colors;can see greater than and less than 20feet; have depth perception

Observe patient responses, specimencolor and appearance of wounds

TactileTactile ability sufficient for physicalassessment

Perform palpation and physicalexamination, take pulses, insertcatheters

Professional Certification

An appropriate licensed professional (physician, psychologist, counselor, etc.) must certify the requestfor accommodation at Mercy School of Nursing.

This applicant has discussed with me the nature of the program at Mercy School of Nursing and theessential functions of a Mercy School of Nursing student. It is my opinion that because of the applicant’sdisability, he or she should be accommodated in the manner described below. I have attached onletterhead relevant assessment findings and test results that support accommodation. I understand thatthis request will be presented to the associate dean, who may contact me for clarification. The associatedean is available by phone at 704-512-2016.

Name of applicant: _______________________________________________________________

Date applicant was last examined: ____________________________________________________

Specific diagnosis: ________________________________________________________________

Specific accommodation requested:

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________ _____________________________________________(Name, please print) (Title and Professional Credentials)

_________________________________ _____________________________________________(Signature) (Practice/Agency)

_______________________________________________________________________________(Address) (City) (State) (Zip)

__________________________________ ____________________________________________(Phone) (Date)

PLEASE ATTACH ASSESSMENT FINDINGS ON LETTERHEAD AND RETURN TO:Associate DeanMercy School of Nursing701 B Forest Point CircleCharlotte, NC 28273 Fax 704-512-2050

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Mercy School of Nursing

AGREEMENT TO VERIFY COLOR ASSESSMENTS

Student Name: ________________________________________________________________

As a student enrolled in clinical program activities diagnosed with color vision deficiency (commonlyreferred to as color blindness), I understand that I must take steps to ensure the accurate color assessmentof my patients. In order to accomplish this requirement, I agree to the following steps for each clinicalcourse for which I am enrolled:

1) Meet prior to each term with my clinical and/or lead faculty member to determine what typesof situations I may encounter that wil require color verification

2) Share with my clinical and/or lead faculty member my specific color identification issues, and

3) Determine a process for requesting color verifications during patient assessment and at all othertimes when necessary in the competent care of my patient

I understand that failure to comply with this agreement or to consistently perform inaccurate colorassessments may lead to me being deemed unsafe in clinical practice. I further agree to follow all additionalrequirements as agreed to with my clinical and/or lead faculty member as identified below:

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________

Student Signature Date

Faculty Member Signature Date

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Mercy School of Nursing Complaint Procedure

When a student has a complaint about the program, the complaint should be shared first with theperson(s) most directly involved in the issue. If the issue is not resolved, the student may share thecomplaint in writing with the dean, associate dean or director of student services. The dean or associatedean will meet with the student within 5 business days and after the investigation will respond to thecomplaint in writing within 5 business days. If the student remains dissatisfied and feels that personalrights were violated, the student may use the hearing and appeals procedure to pursue the complaint. Arecord of the original complaint and the written response is filed in the dean's office for a period of eightyears.

Hearing and Appeals Procedure

Mercy School of Nursing believes students have the right of appeal in matters in which the student’srights may have been violated or in which the student has been dismissed due to discrimination,differential treatment or procedural irregularity. The chief goal is to provide for the prompt and impartialresolution of the problem. These are the steps in the process.

A. When a student feels his/her student rights have been violated or upon receipt of notification ofdismissal, the student must send written notification to the dean of the school within five businessdays of the occurrence. The student may attend class but not clinical during the appeal process.

B. The student’s written request must describe the specific issue that the student seeks to appeal. C. The dean will review the request for appeal and determine if the circumstances fall within the areas

subject to appeal. D. The dean will inform the student in writing within five business days whether the request for

appeal is approved. If approved, the specific appealable issue will be identified for the student,shared with the involved faculty and the hearing and appeals committee.

E. The hearing and appeals committee will be composed of one instructor of each clinical course,student representatives as elected by each class and the chair of the student services committee. Inthe event that a committee member is involved in the grievance, the member will be excused fromthe hearing and appeals committee. The dean of the school will designate a replacement.

F. The chair of the student services committee shall serve as the chair, preside over each meeting andvote only in the event of a tie. The chair will designate a recorder.

G. The appealing student and involved staff will provide the committee chairperson with evidenceand background material to be considered during the hearing. The evidence must be provided twobusiness days prior to the hearing date.

H. The hearing should be scheduled within five business days from the date the dean notifies thehearing and appeals committee. However, the hearing and appeals committee does not meet duringschool holidays or breaks. The hearing would be scheduled within five business days fromresumption of classes. The appealing student and the involved faculty may attend the hearing andpresent testimony. The student is responsible for supporting his/her challenge to an action byshowing that Mercy School of Nursing demonstrated discrimination, differential treatment,procedural irregularity or that his/her rights have been violated. The faculty/staff will presentevidence in support of the action by the school regarding the issue of appeal. The committee willdeliberate in closed session.

I. Written minutes will be kept on the proceedings of the committee and filed in the school office.The chair will sign the minutes. No tape recording is permitted.

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J. An attorney will represent neither the student nor the faculty/staff member(s) in any phase of thehearing. The student and/or faculty/staff member may consult legal counsel in connection withpreparation for the hearing.

K. The student and involved faculty/staff will be allowed to state a position related to the actiontaken. The chair will verify that both parties are satisfied that their positions have been stated.

L. The hearing does not have to be conducted strictly by the rules of law related to examination ofwitnesses or presentation of evidence. Any relevant matter shall be considered, regardless of anyrule of law applicable to judicial proceedings that might make the evidence inadmissible. Thechair presides over the hearing to assure that all parties are able to present relevant evidence andto make decisions regarding procedural matters and objections to evidence. The chair may ruleat any time that evidence or testimony presented is not applicable to the appealed issue.

M. The decision shall be rendered within five business days after completion of the hearing. Thechair of the committee shall inform the student, the involved faculty/staff and the dean of thedecision as soon as possible and prepare a written decision within one business day after thedecision is made.

N. In cases of dismissal, the committee has the authority to uphold or overturn the dismissal. Thedecision shall be rendered by a majority of the committee and shall be final. In appealed cases ofother alleged violation, the committee has the authority to determine whether a violation of rightshas occurred and to make a recommendation regarding action to the dean. The decision of thedean is final.

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Fund Raising Activities

Student organizations and school committees may conduct limited and appropriate fundraising activitieswith prior approval.

1. All fundraising activities must be approved at least three weeks in advance by the organization'sadvisor or committee chair and by the school administration. If the event involves an outsidevendor, will be held off-campus, is unusual or unique, or involves retail sales of any kind, theproject will also require approval by the CHS retail services manager and/or CHS foundation.In those cases the project proposal must be submitted at least one month in advance. The schoolor CHS logo cannot be used without permission. Because the number of fundraising activitiesthat will be approved is limited, organizations are encouraged to plan well in advance and toawait final approval before proceeding or expending funds.

2. Appropriate fundraising is identified as fundraising that benefits the school, CHS sanctionedorganizations, and student organizations or group. Examples include class projects, StudentGovernment Association, Mercy Association of Nursing Students, Children's Miracle Network,United Way and Arts and Science Council.

3. Fundraising activities must comply with CHS HR Policy 5.10.

4. Vendors must be approved by the CHS retail service manager. Approval requires that the vendorsubmit company information, current references, a recent client list and basic financialinformation.

5. Activities to be conducted outside the school building require the consent of institutionalrepresentatives. Students must have approval from CMC-Mercy administration before conductingfundraising activities in the hospital.

6. Fundraising promotion is limited to small flyers on class bulletin boards. Notices must not betaped to any painted surface. Additional advertising must be approved by administration.

7. Students may not conduct fundraising for outside groups, interests, or causes, or for personalprofit on the school campus.

8. Faculty/staff may participate in non-profit fundraising through a kitchen table display that is leftin place for no more than 10 working days. Selling for personal or private profit is prohibited.Students may not be solicited for contributions and student contributions cannot be accepted.

9. No form of coercion will be tolerated, including public recognition of individual contributions,unless authorized by administration.

10. Good taste and professionalism must be exemplified in all facets of fundraising. Any slogan,picture or logo to be used in fundraising must be approved by administration.

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National Student Nurses' Association, Inc.Code of Academic and Clinical Conduct

We recognize the National Student Nurses' Association as the professional organization for studentsenrolled at Mercy School of Nursing and designate the Code of Academic and Clinical Conduct alongwith the student and faculty commitment as the guidelines for students' behavior.

Students are expected to exhibit professional behavior in the clinical and academic setting as outlined inthis document. The term "client" refers to the client (patient), family members or any significant othersidentified by the client.

PREAMBLE

Students of nursing have a responsibility to learn the academic theory and clinical skills needed to providenursing care. The clinical setting presents unique challenges and responsibilities while caring for humanbeings in a variety of healthcare environments.

The Code of Academic and Clinical Conduct is based on an understanding that to practice nursing as astudent is an agreement to uphold the trust with which society has placed in us. The statements of thecode provide guidance for the nursing student in the personal development of an ethical foundation andneed not be limited strictly to the academic and clinical environment, but can assist in the holisticdevelopment of the person.

A CODE FOR NURSING STUDENTS

As students are involved in the clinical and academic environments, we believe that ethical principles area necessary guide to professional development. Within these environments we:

1. Advocate for the rights of all clients.

2. Maintain client confidentiality.

3. Take appropriate action to ensure the safety of all clients, self and others.

4. Provide care for the client in a timely, compassionate and professional manner.

5. Communicate client care in a truthful, timely and accurate manner.

6. Actively promote the highest level of moral and ethical principles.

7. Promote excellence in nursing by encouraging lifelong learning and professional development.

8. Treat others with respect and promote an environment that respects human rights, values andchoice of cultural and spiritual beliefs.

9. Collaborate in every reasonable manner with academic faculty and clinical staff to ensure thehighest quality of client care.

10. Use every opportunity to improve faculty and clinical staff understanding of the learning needsof nursing students.

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11. Encourage faculty, clinical staff and peers to mentor nursing students.

12. Refrain from performing any technique or procedure for which the student has not beenadequately trained.

13. Refrain from performing any deliberate action or omission of care in the academic or clinicalsetting that creates unnecessary risk of injury to client, self or others.

14. Assist the staff nurse or preceptor in ensuring that there is full disclosure and that properauthorizations are obtained from clients regarding any form of treatment or research.

15. Abstain from the use of alcoholic beverages or any substances in the academic or clinical settingthat impair judgment.

16. Strive to achieve and maintain an optimal level of personal health.

17. Support access to treatment and rehabilitation for students who are experiencing impairmentsrelated to substance abuse and mental and physical health issues.

18. Uphold the school policies and regulations related to academic and clinical performance, reservingthe right to challenge and critique rules and regulations as per school grievance policy.

Adopted by the NSNA House of Delegates, Nashville, TN on April 6, 2001.

Challenge Procedure

Those who wish to challenge nursing courses for credit must apply to challenge at least 45 days priorto the date the course is offered.

1. The student must be accepted for enrollment and should make an appointment with the associatedean to determine comparable areas of previously completed course work.

2. A fee of $75 per course fee is due to the student services office prior to challenging each course.An appointment will be made with the appropriate faculty member to establish a written planthat encompasses all steps to be taken through the challenge process. A copy of the schedule willremain in the applicant's file for future reference. Course materials will be provided to thecandidate by the appropriate nurse educator.

3. The student will arrange to take the written challenge examination and required math tests inaccordance with the plan. If the grade is a C or better, a clinical performance examination isscheduled. The student must pass written and clinical performance examinations on the firstattempt in order to obtain credit for the course. After the student demonstrates satisfactoryperformance, the nurse educator submits the grade in writing to the admissions and promotionscommittee and credit by examination is recorded on the student's transcript. The credit grantedis not calculated in the student's cumulative grade average or grade point average. If the grade isbelow C or unsatisfactory, the nurse educator notifies the candidate in writing of the necessity totake the course to obtain credit.

Nursing courses must be challenged in sequence. All prerequisite and/or related courses must becompleted prior to advancement to the next level. Students may not challenge a course if previouslyenrolled in that course at Mercy School of Nursing.

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Skills Validation

Transferring students must successfully complete validation of clinical skills no later than two daysprior to the first clinical day. Two scheduled attempts at validation are permitted. If the student isunsuccessful on the second attempt, the student is dismissed. Students are encouraged to utilize thenursing skills lab for practice sessions prior to attempting to validate.

Testing Guidelines

Faculty Responsibilities: Faculty reviews the honor code at the beginning of each course. The course faculty will review the statistical analysis, test results and other significant issues prior to assigning and posting grades. When a question is excluded from the test, the grades will be recalculated based on the total number of original questions. A decision to exclude a question is the teaching team’s prerogative.

Grades may be posted by student identification number on the course bulletin board or website andare not given out by phone or e-mail. The answer sheet and the test will be recollated prior to review. Test reviews will be held after all students have taken the test. No writing is permitted during the review. Faculty members are available for individual test review after the test isreturned to the class. A final exam review date is noted on the course calendar or syllabus.

Challenge of Questions: A student who wishes to challenge the correct answer to a question must present justification in a current reference within five business days after the return of the test. Course faculty determines if the justification is valid. A student who requests verification of Scantron grading accuracy must identify the question(s) of concern within five business days after return of the test. Course faculty will arrange with the secretary to check the Scantron sheet for accuracy. If necessary, an appointment can be made by course faculty with the secretary for the student to see the original Scantron answer sheet. Students who desires further review of the test must make an appointment to meet privately with course faculty, according to courseguidelines.

Peer Tutoring: Peer tutoring when available is offered free of charge as a learning resource for studentsexperiencing academic or clinical difficulty. Tutorial services are provided as a supplement to regularclass and clinical work and are not a substitute for attendance.

Students must have taken at least one test that indicates that they are academically at-risk or have anacademic success plan in place as verified by the course lead faculty before they can be approved forpeer tutoring. Application forms for peer tutoring should be submitted to the retention coordinator.

To be approved as a tutor for a course, the student must:

1. Complete an application.

2. Have completed the requested course with a grade of at least a B.

3. Secure the approval of the lead faculty for the currently enrolled course.

The tutor will complete an orientation with the retention coordinator, who is also available foradditional guidance with the tutoring process.

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Peer tutoring

1. Must be conducted in the MSON building or another Carolinas HealthCare System property.

2. Is limited to a maximum of two hours per week per tutee.

3. Follows a ratio of one tutor to one or more tutees. Guidance from the retention coordinator isrequested with groups larger than two or three tutees.

4. Is conducted by tutors who are not employed by MSON or CHS and will be recognized throughgift incentives.

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Confidentiality Statement

Strict confidentiality of patient and employee information must be maintained. Students engaged inclinical practice at all facilities have a moral and a legal obligation to protect the privacy rights ofothers by taking actions to prevent disclosure of confidential information.

Students must:

1. Refuse to release in any format or discuss with unauthorized persons any patient, family oremployee confidential information.

2. Refrain from photocopying any part of a patient record unless specifically authorized to do so byhospital personnel.

3. Refer incoming calls or inquiries concerning a patient’s condition or status to hospital staff.

4. Refrain from discussing patient information in halls, cafeteria, elevators or other places whereconversations can be overheard.

5. Refrain from reading the medical record or seeking information about acquaintances or relativeswho are patients or about any patient unless directly involved in care.

6. Use patient initials rather than names on school-assigned papers.

7. Shred documents such as worksheets and care plans that contain patient information (these papersmust not be discarded in unsecured trash at the hospital, school or home. Confidential bins areavailable at the hospital and the school).

8. Refrain from disclosing employee work schedules, addresses or telephone numbers.

9. Wear authorized clothing and identification when present in clinical areas.

10. Refrain from photographing any patient without written permission.

HIPAA Privacy Student Sanctions and Corrective Actions

Mercy School of Nursing students and employees are required to comply with HIPAA privacyregulations and related CHS policies and procedures (collectively called the privacy standards). Notknowing the privacy standards does not excuse the violation. Failure to comply with the HIPAAprivacy standards will result in disciplinary action. The disciplinary action is based on the severity andcontext of the violation. Patient complaints involving HIPAA violations by students are investigatedby the CHS corporate privacy department in addition to the school investigation. Non-compliance inan employee role is dealt with according to CHS policy and will have no bearing on the student roleunless there are clinical limitations and consequences.

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Mercy School of Nursing students and employees are subject to CHS policy PR.PHI.145.13 HIPAAprivacy sanctions. Students are oriented to HIPAA privacy standards during new student orientationand annually. Reporting of HIPAA violations is mandatory. The CHS policy includes definitions ofeach level of violation. The dean or associate dean notifies the student and the director of studentservices of HIPAA violations.

• The level of the violation is determined by the dean or associate dean. The CHS corporate privacyand human resources departments are consulted as needed. If the CHS corporate privacydepartment requests the name of the involved student, the student is asked to sign a waiver incompliance with FERPA regulations. A student who refuses to sign loses clinical access and willbe dismissed from the program for failure to assist with a CHS HIPAA investigation. Thoseinvestigating the incident use the CHS corporate privacy investigation report.

• Level I Violation (accidental disclosure of patient information) - The student is placed on anaction plan and contingency for the HIPAA violation.

• Level II Violation (knowing or willful disregard of privacy standards or a repeated level I violation)- The student is referred to the admissions and promotions committee for action up to andincluding dismissal. If the committee does not dismiss the student, the student will be placed onan action plan and contingency in addition to other sanctions as determined by the committee.

• Level III Violation (malicious disregard of the privacy standards or a repeated level II violation)- For an initial level III violation, the student is referred to the admissions and promotionscommittee for action up to and including dismissal. If the committee does not dismiss the student,the student will be placed on an action plan and contingency in addition to other sanctions asdetermined by the committee. A repeated level III violation results in dismissal. If the level ofviolation is clear, the violation is reported to CHS using the CHS reporting misuses anddisclosures of protected health information (PHI) form. If the level is not clear or if assistancefrom CHS corporate privacy is needed in investigation, the incident is reported on the corporateprivacy investigation report.

Copies of the action plan are placed in the clinical folder and student record and a copy is given to thedean. A student who wishes to dispute the findings of a HIPAA violation investigation may request ameeting with the dean or associate dean and the director of student services. The request must bereceived within five business days of receiving notification of the investigation findings. The dean orassociate dean and director of student services inform the student of their decision.

Examples:a. Level I violations occur when a student unintentionally accesses, reviews or reveals patientinformation without a HIPAA defined legitimate “need to know”. Examples include, but are notlimited to, failing to sign off an unattended computer terminal, failing to secure information in areasonable manner, discussing patient information in a public area and accessing his or her ownrecords without following procedure for requesting access.

b. Level II violations occur when a student accesses, reviews, discloses or discusses patient informationfor purposes other than those allowed under HIPAA. Examples include, but are not limited to,accessing patient records outside the student’s specific patient care assignment, releasing patient datainappropriately, repeating a level I violation even as a part of the same incident, disposing of PHIinappropriately, taking PHI home or off the unit without permission, photocopying or printing PHIwithout permission and placing patient information into the public domain.

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c. Level III violations occur when a student accesses, reviews or discloses in any way PHI for personalreasons, personal gain or with malicious intent. Examples include, but are not limited to, releasingdata for personal gain or with intent to harm, compiling a mailing list for personal use or use by athird party, reviewing PHI to use information in a personal relationship, destroying or altering dataintentionally, taking or accessing PHI from a non-work location to show others and repeating a level IIviolation even as a part of the same incident.

Mercy School of Nursing Curriculum Framework

Critical Thinking Process – A process that encompasses the performance of accurate assessments, theuse of multiple methods to access information and the analysis and integration of evidence-basedknowledge and information to formulate and evaluate clinical judgments.Sub concepts: Assessment, analysis, planning, implementation, evaluation and evidence-basedpractice.

Relationship Process – Interaction among individuals, families and groups across the life span that isbased on human belief systems.Sub concepts: Communication, beliefs/values/culture, human development and caring.

Care Management – Coordination and integration of resources through planning, organizing,managing and evaluating client care and alleviation of suffering.Sub concepts: Time management/organization, quality, collaboration, community resources/dischargeplanning, team management and team education.

Therapeutic Nursing Interventions – Use of nursing skills in health promotion, maintenance andrestoration and illness prevention.Sub concepts: Health teaching, technical skills, documentation, pharmacology, nutrition/diet therapyand safety.

Professional Behavior – Behavior within nursing practice characterized by a commitment to theprofession of nursing, adherence to standards of professional practice, accountability for his/heractions and behaviors, practicing within legal and ethical frameworks and participating in lifelong self-directed professional development.Sub concepts: Ethical/legal frameworks, accountability, standards of professional nursing practice,advocacy for client rights, confidentiality, lifelong self-directed learning and informatics.

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Clinical Performance Evaluation

Students are invited to participate actively in the process of evaluation of clinical performance,including weekly recording of progress as well as evaluation summaries. Evaluation of clinicalperformance in each of the five curriculum components is based on the course objectives, whichindicate the growth the student is expected to make each semester.

The grading scale for clinical performance is outlined below. Clinical performance is evaluated on apass-fail basis. The clinical component of the course must be passed in order to pass the course.

S = Satisfactory Safe clinical performance, consistently demonstratesidentified behavior and/or skills and application ofnursing principles at the expected course level.

NI = Needs Improvement Marginal performance towards meeting objective.

UBI = Unsatisfactory but Improved Unsatisfactory but improving clinical performance.

U = Unsatisfactory Unacceptable clinical performance with lack ofexpected behaviors and/or skills and unsafe nursingpractice.

NO = Not Observed Behavior not observed or applicable.

The student is expected to perform at a satisfactory level each clinical day. Conferences on clinicalperformance will be held at mid-semester and at the completion of the course. The mid-semesterprogress report is formative and the final evaluation is summative. Additional conferences are held asnecessary. To obtain a final clinical grade rated as satisfactory, the student must successfully:

1. Demonstrate all clinical behaviors.2. Validate all clinical competencies.3. Complete all required learning activities.

The final clinical grade will be satisfactory or unsatisfactory.

Administration of Medications

Students and faculty will follow the accepted institutional guidelines and procedure in administrationof medications. A student is NOT to give medications without the supervision of faculty, except inspecial circumstances when a preceptor or other designated nurse may supervise. The student willadminister scheduled and as needed medications in accordance with planned instructional objectivesand at the discretion of faculty. Faculty may opt to supervise STAT and one-time doses. Where thelevel of competency or other circumstances limit student administration of medications, clearcommunication by the student and/or with the staff nurse is required. Students cannot administer thefollowing medications: 1) antineoplastics other than by oral route, 2) epidural meds, 3) intracardiacmedications and 4) blood and blood products. The medications that must be verified and co-signed bytwo licensed nurses follow the CHS policy.

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Students may perform previously learned medication competencies as they add those for the course inwhich they are currently enrolled.

NUR 1000: Students who have successfully validated competence may administer oral, rectal,inhaled, vaginal, urethral, subcutaneous, intramuscular and topical medications. Students may notadminister the following medications: insulin, coumadin, heparin other than Lovenox, intradermalmedications and intravenous infusions or medications.

NUR 1005: Students who have successfully validated competence may administer oral, rectal,inhaled, vaginal, urethral, subcutaneous, intramuscular and topical medications. Students may notadminister the following medications: insulin, coumadin, heparin other than Lovenox, intradermalmedications and intravenous infusions or medications.

NUR 1010: Students who have successfully validated competence can administer insulin, hang newintravenous solutions, connect new intravenous tubing, calculate/regulate intravenous flow rates, flushprn adapters with saline and flush central lines with heparin and saline. Students may administerintravenous parenteral nutrition, fat emulsion, vitamins, diluted electrolytes and minibag medications.

NUR 2005: Students are not allowed to give medications.

NUR 2000: Students who have successfully validated competence may perform venipuncture andadminister intravenous push medications only under the supervision of faculty or preceptor. Studentsmay administer heparin, coumadin and intradermal medications. Students may titrate intravenousmedications under the supervision of faculty or preceptor.

NUR 2010: Students may perform pediatric drug calculations, administer antiparasitics andimmunizing agents under the supervision of faculty or preceptor. Students may administer drugs usedduring pregnancy/labor/delivery/lactation, clotting agents, fertility drugs and contraceptives.

NUR 2015: Students may perform pediatric drug calculations, administer antiparasitics andimmunizing agents under the supervision of faculty or preceptor.

NUR 2020: Students may titrate intravenous medications under the supervision of faculty orpreceptor.

NUR 2040: Students may titrate intravenous medications under the supervision of faculty orpreceptor. Students may administer drugs used during pregnancy/labor/delivery/lactation, clottingagents, fertility drugs and contraceptives.

Scope of Practice Restrictions for Student Nurses

Mercy School of Nursing ascribes to the policies of Carolinas HealthCare System and the NorthCarolina Board of Nursing (NCBON) that define the role of the student nurse.

• CHS Policy and Clinical Practice Guidelines: Student Nurses, Advisory Statement Procedures • NCBON: Activities within the Scope of Practice for the RN or LPN (Advisory Statements)

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Nursing students are not allowed to perform the following procedures:

1. Administration of blood and blood products

2. Investigational protocols

3. Administration of chemotherapy and other specific drug routes or classes as specified in the schoolpolicy on medication administration

4. Procedures requiring advanced preparation and/or certification

5. Insertion, manipulation or removal of central vascular or arterial catheters, including PICC lines

6. Arterial punctures or obtaining blood from an arterial line

7. Obtaining blood specimens for the lab other than by finger or heel stick

8. Debridement of wound

9. Defibrillation other than by AED

10. Insertion of enteral feeding tube

11. Peritoneal dialysis

12. Surgical retraction, hemostasis, cutting, suturing or stapling of tissue

13. Removal of thoracotomy tube

14. Reinsertion or removal of gastrostomy, epidural/caudal or suprapubic catheter/tube

15. Measurement of cardiac output or pulmonary wedge pressure

16. Witness of consent, advance directive or other legal document

17. Independently giving report to next shift or next unit in transfer

18. Accompanying patient to off-campus site

19. Change/alteration of ventilator setting

Student entries on the patient record require verification by instructor or designated nurse. See policy on administration of medications for verification requirements and limitations onmedication administration.

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Learning Resource Center Circulation Policy

Audiovisual materials and books are for use by the students and faculty of Mercy School of Nursing.CMC Mercy employees may use AV materials or books with approval of the Associate Dean and priornotification of the Learning Resource Specialist (LRS). All materials placed into circulation will beidentified by a book pocket with a card for circulation placed on the material case or inside book cover.Reserved materials will be designated by a yellow Reserve sticker and a For Reference sticker on thecard pocket. Reference only books are designated by a blue Reference sticker. All reserved and referencematerials must be used on site.

Audiovisual MaterialsReserved AV materials must be viewed on MSON property. Students must notify the LRS when a videois removed to view. Students may view DVDs or videos in any available smart classroom, the break room,the conference room, or within the skills lab. An ID badge must be given to the LRS as collateral for thereturn of all reserved AV materials when removed from the Learning Resource Center. Circulated AVmaterials may be checked out on a two-day rotation. A sign-out card must be submitted for all circulatingmaterials. Circulating AV materials may be renewed one time unless there is a request from anotherstudent to view or if the resource is in great demand. .

BooksBooks may be checked out on a two-week rotation and checked out for one renewal per semester. Theborrower is responsible for materials checked out and may not pass them on to others .

Computer softwareComputer software programs are available for use only within the LRC. Any programs that requiresoftware discs to view are kept at the LRS desk and must be secured using an ID badge given to the LRSas collateral for its return. All other software programs are loaded into student computers within theLRC and are available to students on the computer desktop.

Late notifications are the responsibility of the LRS and students will be notified of any fines being assessedto their accounts related to overdue or missing resource materials.

All materials must be returned to the LRC before the end of the semester.

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Bylaws of the Student Government Association (SGA) of Mercy School of Nursing

ARTICLE I TITLE AND FUNCTION

SECTION 1 The name of this association shall be the Student Government Association of MercySchool of Nursing.

SECTION 2 The purposes of the Student Government Association shall be to a) act as a liaison between student body and the school faculty and administration; andb) promote the well-being of the student body.

SECTION 3 The functions of the Student Government Association shall be: a) to promote and to protect the well-being of students as nurses and as individuals;b) to provide a governing body to address student issues and bring these issues forward to faculty and staff as needed.

ARTICLE II MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 1 The Student Government Association shall consist of all members of the student bodyof Mercy School of Nursing.

ARTICLE III ADVISOR

SECTION 1 There shall be one faculty advisor of the association. This advisor shall be elected by thefaculty/staff organization. The advisor shall serve a two-year term. The advisor position maybe extended at the request of the advisor and the consent of the faculty/staff organization.The faculty advisor attends all SGA and executive committee meetings.

ARTICLE IV OFFICES AND DUTIES OF OFFICE

SECTION 1 The governing offices of the Student Government Association shall be comprised ofpresident, vice president, secretary, treasurer and the class president from each courseselection. These are the voting members of the executive committee.

SECTION 2 The president shall:a) Call and preside over all meetings of the association and executive committee.b) Post an agenda of all scheduled association and executive committee meetings on the SGA bulletin board assuring all members receive the meeting agenda in a timely manner. The agenda will include the date and time for the upcoming meeting.

c) Prepare for all meetings by referring to the minutes of the last meeting, conferring with officers and committee chairmen for additional items, developing a major purpose of emphasis for each meeting and reviewing plans with the advisor to evaluate how the agenda should be organized.

d) Be an ex-officio member of all committees.

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e) Appoint special committees and supervise the work of the chairman of all committees of the Student Government Association.

f Serve as a member of the Student Services Committee.g) Serve as a member of the Faculty/Staff Organization.h) Appoint a chairman for the Ad Hoc Nominating Committee. i) Attend faculty curriculum committee meetings in the event the vice president is unable to attend.

SECTION 3 The vice president shall:a) In the absence of the president, perform the duties of that office. b) Assume the duty of planning the programs and activities as desired by the students.

c) Serve as a member of the Student Services Committee. d) Chair and appoint an ad hoc committee to review annually the bylaws to determine the need for revision and to keep a record of the proceedings of that committee.

e) Serve as a representative to the curriculum committee.

SECTION 4 The secretary shall: a) Keep a permanent record of all proceedings of the Student Government Association and the Executive Committee.

b) check the number in attendance and establish a quorum at each Student Government Association and Executive Committee meeting;

c) post a copy of the SGA and Executive Committee minutes on the Student Government Association’s bulletin board and submit copies to the faculty advisor and chairman of the Student Services Committee. These minutes will be posted one week after the Executive Committee meetings; and,

d) Prepare an updated list of officers and the faculty advisor per school term or as new officers are elected and post to the SGA bulletin board.

SECTION 5 The treasurer shall: a) Manage all monetary transactions of the association. Deposits to or withdrawals from SGA funds will require ongoing documentation of sums and receipts as appropriate. All monetary transactions for deposit or withdrawal will require two signatures (one from the treasurer or other responsible SGA offices and another from the SGA faculty advisor). SGA account funds are managed by the director of Student Services.

b) Provide an updated report to the Executive Committee regarding the financial standing of the association at each regular meeting. The retiring treasurer shall deliver to the newly-elected treasurer all money, vouchers, books and papers of the association held in custody.

SECTION 6 The class president shall: a) Represent the concerns of his/her particular class to the executive committee as an ongoing member of the committee.

b) Serve on committees or participate with activities and projects of the SGA as appointed by the president or vice president.

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SECTION 7 Officers are expected to attend meetings including designated faculty committeemeetings. Any officer who misses any two meetings without reasonable explanationor 24-hour notice to the chairman of Faculty/Staff Organization, SGA president orfaculty advisor shall be given written and personal notification of dismissal from office.Appointment to fill the office will be made by the Executive Committee. Officers designated to attend faculty committee meetings are expected to be present.If unable to attend, the officer should make every effort to find another ExecutiveCommittee member to substitute for them at the designated meeting.

ARTICLE V NOMINATIONS

SECTION 1 Nominations will be solicited from the entire student body and forms distributed toall students by the members of the Executive Committee. Nominations will besubmitted via anonymous ballot and will be tallied under the supervision of the SGAfaculty advisor.

A class president will be elected by their classmates within the first two weeks of thesecond semester course. Representation for the 1000 course students will be theresponsibility of the SGA president or Executive Committee designee.

Special classes such as accelerated curriculum and evening weekend students will havethe opportunity to elect a class president for their specific cohort during the secondsemester course in their curriculum. Students who intend to enter the acceleratedcurriculum should not run for the general 1010 class president due to the nature ofthis program.

SECTION 2 Ballots will ask for a statement of qualifications and consent to serve for each nominee.

SECTION 3 Current class presidents and officers already serving in another role on the ExecutiveCommittee are discouraged from running for a vacating office.

ARTICLE VI ELECTIONS

SECTION 1 Elections for offices being vacated by graduating SGA members will be conducted onan as needed basis each semester. Nominated student names will be brought forth fora final vote for office by the student body via anonymous ballot and will be talliedunder the supervision of the SGA faculty advisor. A special election may be held atany time to fill vacant positions.

SECTION 2 A plurality of votes shall constitute an election. In case of a tie, the choice shall bemade by lot.

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ARTICLE VI MEETINGS

SECTION 1 The number of SGA meetings per year will be dictated according to need and at thediscretion of the SGA president. The time and place of the meeting shall be designatedbe the Executive Committee and announced by publication at least one week priorto a meeting.

SECTION 2 Special meetings of the Student Government Association may be called by theExecutive Committee and may be called by the president upon the written request offive or more members. The time, place and purpose of the meeting shall be stated inthe official notice.

SECTION 3 Quoruma) Two officers of the Executive Committee, including the president or vicepresident, and at least one-tenth of the student body shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Student Government Association.

b) A majority of the Executive Committee, including the president or vice president, shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of the Executive Committee.

c) A majority of any standing or special committee shall constitute a quorum.

SECTION 4 The order of business at each meeting shall include:a) Call to order and a count of the number in attendanceb) Approval of the minutes as posted for Students Government Association and as read in Executive Committee

c) Treasurer’s reportd) Report of standing committeese) Report of special committeesf ) Unfinished businessg) New businessh) Announcementsi) Adjournment

SECTION 5 Parliamentary Authority The rules contained in Robert's Rules of Order, revised, shall govern meetings of thisassociation in all cases, where applicable, and where they are not inconsistent withthese bylaws.

ARTICLE VII AMENDMENTS

SECTION 1 These bylaws may be amended at any meeting by a two-thirds vote of the memberspresent. All proposed amendments shall be referred to the Executive Committee forstudy and recommendations. The committee shall see that all proposed amendmentswith the committee's recommendations shall be in the possession of the secretary atleast two weeks before the date of the meeting.

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SECTION 2 These bylaws and any amendments made by the Student Government Associationshall become effective immediately upon approval by faculty.

SECTION 3 These bylaws will be reviewed annually by an ad hoc committee.

ARTICLE VIII STANDING COMMITTEE(S)

SECTION 1 Members or alternate members of a standing committee are expected to attendcommittee meetings. More than two unexcused absences by a member will result inhis removal from the committee. Any member who cannot attend a meeting shouldnotify the chairman in advance.

SECTION 2 The Executive Committee shall consist of the officers of the Student GovernmentAssociation; the president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and class president fromeach course section. The Executive Committee shall:a) Transact general business of the Association.b) Appoint committees not otherwise provided.c) Have the power to fill vacancies for committees;d) Decide upon time and place of meetings of the Student Government Association.

e) Ratify all referendums of standing committees.f ) Prepare specific goals annually for the Student Government Association.g) Prepare the annual budget and advise expenditure of funds.h) Meet prior to the Student Government Association meetings and at other times as called by the President.

i) Report all transactions by this committee to the Student Government Association and recommend proposals that will support the growth and development of the Student Government Association.

j) Channel all proposed changes to the Student Services Committee; andk) Evaluate programs that will support the growth and development of the Student Government Association.

SECTION 2 The Ad Hoc Committee shall:a) Be chaired by the designate of the president of the Student Government Association/Executive Committee.

b) Have members and duties determined at the time of appointment.c) Function to exist for a specifically designated purpose and cease to exist when this purpose is satisfied.

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General Guidelines for Student Organizations

All student organizations of Mercy School of Nursing shall function under the following guidelines:

Faculty Advisor: The faculty advisor of the organization should be present at meetings. Any contractinvolving a student organization must be approved by the faculty advisor. A copy of the contract remainsin the organization files.

Treasury:The treasurer of each organization must keep accurate records of revenue and expenses with adate for each transaction. The records are reviewed at the conclusion of school year with the facultyadvisor. Funds can be stored in the school office safe or a bank. Use of student organization funds forpersonal expenses is a violation of the law and the policies of Mercy School of Nursing.

Fundraising: Solicitation for fundraising is not permitted in the hospital without permission from thehospital administration. Logos, slogans, etc. imprinted on objects or clothing must be in good taste andmust have approval of the faculty advisor.

Meetings: Reservation of classrooms or the auditorium for organization functions is made through theassociate dean. School-owned audiovisual equipment can be used only if a faculty member is present tooperate the equipment. Minutes are kept of the proceedings of each meeting, reviewed with the advisorand turned into the director of Student Services at the end of the school year.

Alcohol: Alcohol cannot be served at school-related functions. Student organization funds cannot beused to purchase alcohol.

Publicity: Selling or posting notices on hospital property is not permitted without the consent ofadministration. Those interested in posting notices or selling in the hospital must contact their class ororganization advisor in order to initiate steps to request permission. Those individuals or groups postingnotices on bulletin boards in the school should date and sign each notice.

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CMC-MercyEmergency Action Plan for Mercy School of Nursing

Fire Plan: All occupants of Mercy School of Nursing are responsible for being familiar with thisemergency plan and the hospital emergency plan. In the event of a safety drill, the response must be thesame as would be practiced in an actual emergency.

In the event of fire, smoke or the odor of something burning, occupants should initiate the emergencyprocedures outlines below.

A. Occupants should familiarize themselves with the following information:

1. The code for fire is CODE RED. 2. The location of each fire alarm box.

3. The location and types of fire extinguishers available and how to use them.

4. The emergency exits in each area.

B. If you suspect or discover a fire, immediately:

1. Implement R-A-C-Ea) Rescue or remove anyone from immediate danger. b Alert or Alarm others by pulling the nearest fire alarm box (notifies others in building). c) Contain the fire by closing all doors and clearing the hallways on the way out. d) Extinguish the fire using the proper equipment until the emergency fire team arrives, butonly if this is feasible considering the characteristics and severity of the fire. If it is not feasibleto fight the fire, Evacuate.

C. If you hear the fire alarm, immediately:

1. Evacuate the building - quickly, quietly and calmly. a) Leave doors closed and unlocked with electrical appliances turned off. b) Use buddy system to alert others as you exit the area. c) Use designated emergency exits.

2. Meet in front of school of nursing to assist with accounting for occupants.

D. Use of tobacco products is prohibited in buildings or on the grounds of any CHS facility.

F. Designated exits for the building:a) Back door - Classroom 115, lab, kitchen b) Front door - Conference room, offices, classrooms 106 and 117

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Hazardous Materials Plan

As a means of providing a safe environment for Mercy School of Nursing personnel, as well as studentsand visitors, hazardous materials must be identified and handled in a manner that will provide minimalrisk to personnel, students, visitors and the community.

The school interacts with other hospital departments to assure that hazardous materials are appropriatelyidentified and managed from point of entry into the facility until final disposal.

The school also assures that all its students receive orientation and annual inservice education regardingidentification and management of hazardous substances.

Responsibility

The school is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring a hazardous materialsmanagement plan inclusive of all areas within the school.

MANAGEMENT OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS I. Non-cytotoxic Chemicals A. General Information

1. Hazardous chemicals are defined as any chemical that is toxic, flammable, corrosive orreactive, or capable of causing harm or injury to human, animal or environment.

2. A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is to be maintained on every chemical used in the hospital and identified as hazardous. This information is maintained in Materials Managementand the Emergency Department for all chemicals used throughout the hospital. A copy ofMSDS for products found in the school will be maintained in the school’s office.

3. A Hazardous Chemical Substance Register must be maintained in the school. The HazardousChemical Substanc e Register identifies hazardous substances commonly found in the workarea. Information on the Hazardous Chemical Substance Register includes the following:

a. Chemical name b. The MSDS number c. Hazards associated with the chemical

B. Identification 1. It is the responsibility of the chemical manufacturer and distribution to ensure that eachcontainer of hazardous chemical is appropriately labeled. No containers will enter thehospital without the following information:

a. Identity of the hazardous material b. Appropriate hazard warnings c. Name and address of the manufacturer or other responsible party

2. It is the responsibility of Mercy School of Nursing personnel to ensure that all containersof hazardous chemicals remain properly labeled.

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C. Storage and Handling 1. Hazardous chemicals will be stored in appropriate labeled containers.2. Regular inspections will be made of the storage site to ensure there are no leaking or spilledcontainers.

3. Highly flammable agents will be kept in an area separate from oxidizing agents. 4. The "No Smoking" policy will be strictly adhered to in the presence of flammable agents.

D. Spills 1. If a hazardous chemical is spilled, there are several factors that will determine what shouldbe done: quantity spilled, characteristic of chemical (corrosive, flammable, solid, liquid,etc.), location and type of exposure.

2. Appropriate guideline procedures on the MSDS sheet are to be followed. A spill kit islocated in the first floor stairwell.

3. Clear people away from the area and contain spill in as small an area as possible. 4. Notify the department head and the chairman of the Safety Committee. These two willdetermine if outside assistance is needed in the cleanup.

5. Complete incident report, which will include: a. Location of spill b. Names of people in the area at the time of spill and those involved in the cleanup c. Date and time spill occurred d. Chemical(s) spilled e. Amount spilled f. Description of cleanup procedures g. Injuries or damages occurred.

6. Send report to risk manager.

MANAGEMENT OF INFECTIOUS WASTE II. Infectious Waste A. General Information

1. Infectious waste is defined as any waste, solid or liquid, that is capable of producing an infection.These wastes are characterized by the known or suspected presence of a pathogen.

2. The following wastes will be classified as infectious waste: a. Materials that are visibly contaminated with blood or body fluid b. Needles and sharps c. Specimen to be submitted to the laboratory

3. All nursing personnel are provided instruction and necessary equipment for the properhandling of infectious wastes.

4. Precautions as outlined in the Body Substance Isolation Manual are used in handling allpotentially infectious material.

B. Storage and Handling 1. Infectious waste will be segregated from non-infectious waste.2. All infectious waste is placed in plastic bags that are impervious to moisture. Labeled,plastic-lined trash containers are found in the health office.

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3. Needles and sharps will be placed (without recapping the needle) in a designated needledisposal box found in the health office.

Note: The health nurse is responsible for: a. Monitoring the capacity in the needle box. b. Changing the inner liner when necessary. c. Transporting the full inner liner for final disposal.

4. Liquid wastes may be discarded into the sewer system. When pouring liquid into the sink,hopper, etc., masks may be worn if splattering is likely.

5. Housekeeping is responsible for collecting all contaminated trash and transporting it for final disposal.

C. Management of Spills and Exposures 1. Any spills of infectious waste will be cleared immediately by a member of the nursing staffwho is wearing appropriate protective attire. Housekeeping will then be contacted to cleanthe area. (Reference: Body Substance Isolation Protocol)

2. Any exposure to or injury from handling infectious material will be reported via incidentreport to the risk manager. (Reference: Incident Report)

All students have an annual inservice review and must pass a written test for knowledge level.

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