School of Nursing Undergraduate Student Handbook

Preface

The undergraduate program in nursing at the University of Mobile (UM) is a school under the College of Health Professions. The handbook was developed for undergraduate students and faculty to provide a comprehensive document that defines the philosophy and mission of the undergraduate program. Information on requirements and coursework, advising, financial aid, professional organizations, and policies and procedures are included in the Handbook. It is essential that students understand the information presented in this handbook to facilitate their progression through the School of Nursing. All students in the University of Mobile School of Nursing are responsible for the information contained in this handbook which details practices, procedures, and provisions of the school pertaining to academic progress, professional expectations, and related matters.

The School of Nursing Undergraduate Student Handbook is reviewed annually (and more often if needed). The undergraduate faculty in the School of Nursing reserve the right to revise the requirements and policies, as deemed necessary at any time, to prepare students for new and emerging roles in nursing. Dissemination of revisions will be made via class and online announcements, and/or notices, or posted on the designated School of Nursing website. The School of Nursing Undergraduate Student Handbook will be incorporated into the University of Mobile’s Online Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog and Student Handbook. Students will be notified of any changes made to the School of Nursing Undergraduate Student Handbook.

The School of Nursing Undergraduate Student Handbook is not all-inclusive; rather it includes basic information regarding the mission, goals, and expected outcomes of the School of Nursing, as well as the school policies and procedures that reflect national standards and guidelines for the education of undergraduate students in the nursing profession. 

Each student enrolled in the nursing program must sign an Undergraduate Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form (in Magnus) indicating the student has read and is responsible (for the duration of the program) for the information contained in the University of Mobile, School of Nursing Undergraduate Student Handbook. 

The University of Mobile endorses the intent of all federal and state laws created to prohibit discrimination. The University of Mobile does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status in admissions or the provision of services.

Students are held accountable for information and policies published in official University of Mobile documents, including UM’s Online Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog and Student Handbook.

Welcome from the Dean, University of Mobile, School of Nursing

Dear Undergraduate Nursing Students:

Thank you for choosing the undergraduate nursing program at University of Mobile.  On behalf of the faculty and staff we are excited that God has led you to become a student in this program, and we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with you in fulfilling this God-ordained professional calling.

The Undergraduate Student Handbook provides information on important policies, procedures and guideline pertinent to undergraduate nursing education at the University of Mobile.  Our expectation is that you will use this handbook as your first point of reference when you have questions concerning your program of study or academic policies within the School of Nursing.  We hope that you will find the Undergraduate Student Handbook a valuable resource in addressing your questions as a University of Mobile undergraduate student.

Congratulations once again on reaching this milestone in your life and we look forward to mentoring you in this educaional endeavor.

Blessings,

Dr. Sarah Witherspoon

Dean, School of Nursing

The following faculty are available to assist you in understanding the curriculum, policies, and procedures, etc. in completing the undergraduate nursing programs. 

Tammy Brown, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor of Nursing

Undergraduate Chair

Weaver Hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-M

251.442.2446

tbrown@umobile.edu

Beverly Collier, MSN, RN

Instructor of Nursing

Weaver Hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-P

251.442.2455

bcollier@umobile.edu

Mattie Easter, MSN, RN

Undergraduate Advisor

Weaver Hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-J

251.442.2337

measter@umobile.edu

Martha Gibson, PhD, MSN, MCHES 

Associate Professor of Nursing 

Weaver Hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-E

251.442.2228

mgibson@umobile.edu

Julie Hughes, DNP, CHSE®, CPNP-PC

Assistant Professor of Nursing

Simulation Coordinator

Weaver Hall - 2nd Floor, Suite 202

251.442.2393

jhughes@umobile.edu

Victoria Park, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor of Nursing

Weaver Hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-O

251.442.2269

vpark@umobile.edu

Ashley Smith, MSN, RN

Instructor of Nursing

Weaver hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-R

251.442.2329

asmith@umobile.edu

Kendra Strenth, DNP, MSN, RN, B-C

Assistant Professor of Nursing

Weaver hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-N

251.442.2559

kstrenth@umobile.edu

Shannon Thomas, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor of Nursing

Weaver Hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-Q

251.442.2362

sathomas@umobile.edu

Sarah Witherspoon, PhD, RN, BSN, MSN, LNC

Dean, School of Nursing

Professor of Nursing

Education Specialist

Weaver Hall - 3rd Floor, Suite 316-A

251.442.2445

switherspoon@umobile.edu

Section I: Introduction

History of the University of Mobile

The University is a church-related institution of liberal arts and sciences chartered in 1961 as Mobile College and affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State convention. The University is the creation of people with a Christian Vision. Students are encouraged to become confident Christian men and women who have mastered the body of knowledge required by the degree they hold; who know how to think; who know what they believe and why they believe it; who possess the courage to live and work according to those beliefs; and who possess the willingness and skill to use their influence in appropriate and effective ways to change the world. The intent of the University is reflected in the preamble statement, “changing lives to change the world.” As stated in the mission statement, the University strives to establish and maintain a tradition of excellence in undergraduate programs.

History of the School of Nursing

The University is a church-related institution of liberal arts and sciences chartered in 1961 as Mobile College and affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State convention. The University is the creation of people with a Christian Vision. Students are encouraged to become confident Christian men and women who have mastered the body of knowledge required by the degree they hold; who know how to think; who know what they believe and why they believe it; who possess the courage to live and work according to those beliefs; and who possess the willingness and skill to use their influence in appropriate and effective ways to change the world. The intent of the University is reflected in the preamble statement, “changing lives to change the world.”  

The School of Nursing at the University of Mobile has a rich history of preparing the finest professional nurses for our community and beyond. The Baccalaureate of Science degree in Nursing has its roots in the relationship between the University and Mobile Infirmary School of Nursing, which began in 1967. Students enrolled in the diploma program at the Mobile Infirmary School of Nursing were taking science courses at the Mobile College. In 1973, Mobile Infirmary phased out the diploma program and supported the development of an Associate Degree Program at Mobile College (Mobile College underwent a name change in 1993 and became the University of Mobile). In 1978, Mobile College established a Baccalaureate nursing program while continuing to operate the Associate Degree Program.  In 2014, the school of nursing instituted an accelerated BSN program as an addition to its traditional BSN program. The Associate Degree in Nursing program was phased out in 2014 but was reinstituted in fall of 2022 as a part of the undergraduate program at the University of Mobile, and it is currently seeking accreditation through ACEN.  The School of Nursing celebrates a long tradition of preparing nurses, supporting the preamble statement, “Changing Lives to Change the World.” 

In 1987, the School of Nursing began a Master’s in Nursing Program (MSN) offering tracks in Adult Health Nursing and Nursing Administration. The University of Mobile, School Of Nursing has offered a Master of Science in Nursing Degree since 1987. The School of Nursing established a Family Nurse Practitioner Degree in 1995; however, it was voluntarily suspended in 2008 due to decreasing interest and declining job prospects for the graduates. Since that time, the healthcare environment has changed dramatically and the need for additional advanced practice nurses has soared, again spiking interest in the community, as well as nationwide. The Family Nurse Practitioner Program was granted SACS-COC approval and reopened in August 2017. The Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) opened in the fall of 2018, receiving approval from CCNE in 2019. In addition, CCNE approved the Post Graduate APRN Certificate program in 2019. 

Administrative Structure of the College of Health Professions

The College of Health Professions is currently comprised of three schools which include the School of Nursing, the School of Health and Sports Science, and the School of Nurse Anesthesia.

In the School of Nursing, there are ten nursing programs, four resulting in an undergraduate degree and five resulting in a graduate degree. The undergraduate degree options include the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN), the Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (TBSN), and the RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN). The graduate options include the Master of Science in Nursing Leadership, Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner program, Post-Master APRN Certificate, Doctorate of Nursing Practice (Post-Master), and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner).

The School of Nursing has a Program Chair for ​the undergraduate program who reports directly to the Dean. The Undergraduate Program Chair directs the ADN, ABSN, TBSN, and the RN-BSN nursing programs. The Graduate Dean directs all graduate programs The Undergraduate Program Chair, the Undergraduate Faculty Committee, and the Dean participate in the decisions regarding the governance of the undergraduate programs, ensuring that relevant professional standards and guidelines are incorporated. The Graduate dean and graduate Committee participate in the decisions regarding the governance of the graduate programs, ensuring that relevant professional standards and guidelines are incorporated.

School of Nursing Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Mobile, School of Nursing is to provide a quality education in a Christian environment in order to prepare competent, caring practitioners in nursing. The school aspires to the highest standards of educational excellence, blending a professional perspective with a liberal arts and science foundation. The school is committed to the development of its students into knowledgeable, caring, responsible and self-directed individuals able to meet the health care needs of a diverse and complex society. The University of Mobile, School of Nursing emphasizes quality teaching while encouraging and valuing scholarly activity and research to support that teaching.

School of Nursing Philosophy

The School of Nursing, an integral part of the University of Mobile, is dedicated to the advancement of higher education based upon Christian values. The nursing programs of the University of Mobile seek to prepare nurses with Christian ideals to meet the nursing needs of humanity.

The human is perceived as a holistic being; a psychosocial, spiritual, cultural, ethnic, and racial being capable of feelings, emotions, thoughts, and actions. The human is capable of higher levels of functioning in the cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains. The human is in a dynamic interaction with the environment, which results in change in individual social systems and in health care needs. To serve humanity, one must attempt to meet needs in totality since the human being is perceived as a unit and not a summation of parts.

Today’s society is complex and dynamic. It incorporates social controls to preserve its identity, to enable it to function systematically, and to be relatively enduring. Individuals assume roles within society, which are stipulated by the interaction between individuals and society.

Health is the physiological, psychological, and spiritual well-being of an individual, family, or group which allows or enables the individual, family, or group to function consistently at maximum potential. Health is an ever-changing state on a continuum from peak wellness to extreme states of ill health dependent upon individual or group adaptation to stressors. Rapid changes in science, technology, knowledge, and health problems, along with striking differences in family structures, emphasis on the legal rights of the individual, and cultural and environmental factors influence health needs.

Nursing is a collaborative process in which nurse’s assist the client and the client’s significant others in performing those activities which contribute to the achievement of maximum health potential through a holistic care approach. Nursing seeks to influence man’s balance on the wellness-illness continuum in a positive manner. A perception of, and concern for the needs of individuals, families, and groups are essential to nursing, as well as effective communication with individuals and the entire health care team.

The nursing process is a systematic problem-solving approach utilizing critical thinking for validating the perceived needs and problems of clients. This problem-solving process applied to nursing practice involves assessing, analyzing, planning, implementing, and evaluating. After identifying the needs and problems of individuals, families, and groups, the nurse formulates a nursing diagnosis. In collaboration with other health team members, the nurse plans, implements, and evaluates nursing care. Use of the nursing process promotes responsibility for nursing actions.

Education is the process involving teaching and learning by which one acquires knowledge, skills, values, attitudes, and the ability to think critically. Learning is viewed as a change in behavior based on the learner’s perception of that which is to be learned. Each learner and teacher is an individual with a unique background of experiences. The student analyzes, synthesizes, and integrates relationships among new and previous learning’s. In the teaching/learning process, a teacher facilitates the student’s learning. Relevance in learning depends upon how closely the student individually perceives the learning experience.

Nursing education assists the student to acquire the knowledge, which is essential to the profession. This includes, but is not limited to, developing a knowledge base for nursing, developing proficiency in selected psychomotor skills, and a model for nursing practice. Based upon this, qualified nursing faculty members recognize the uniqueness of the individual learner and seek to guide each student in learning experiences. Nursing education is more thorough and perception is broadened when students are assisted in maintaining high input into their own learning and are guided by measurable goals and objectives.

A professional nurse is accountable for nursing actions. The professional nurse possesses the ability to continue professional and personal growth by pursuing lifelong learning as evidenced by completion of educational courses and/or graduate study, active participation in professional and related organizations, and being a contributing member of society.

School of Nursing Goals

The goals of the University of Mobile, School of Nursing reflect the overall mission of the university to enhance the health and quality of life for all. The School of Nursing strives to:

1. Develop academic programs that meet the needs of society and incorporate best practices in nursing education.
2. Provide a supportive, collegial environment that encourages excellence in teaching-learning, professional development, and faculty/student scholarship.
3. Develop leaders capable of improving clinical practice outcomes, health policy, and care delivery methods.
4. Prepare graduates able to provide safe, evidence-based, culturally competent, patient-centered care that reflects ethical clinical judgment and inter-professional collaboration.
5. Cultivate in students an intellectual desire for advanced study and inquiry.

University Core Values

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered academic community providing professional programs to renew minds through intellectual and spiritual development for the fulfilling of one’s professional calling. The core values of the University are supported by the nursing faculty and reflected in how we work and interact with others. The core values are:

• Christ-centered
• Academically-focused
• Student-devoted
• Distinctively-driven

University Biblical Worldview

The School of Nursing faculty members embrace the concept of teaching a biblical worldview to our students. The biblical worldview serves as a pathway by which students are prepared to fulfill the Great Commission as noted in God’s Word through:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom…” | Describes our calling to Him. (Proverbs 9:10)

“Then God said, Let Us make man in our image, according to our likeness” | Describes who we are in Him. (Genesis 1:26)

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may provide what is that good and acceptable and perfect” | Describes our transformation in Him. (Romans 12:2)

Section II: Program Descriptions

Accreditations and Approvals

As of May 2024, the University of Mobile Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program is seeking final accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3390 Peachtree Rd NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30326 and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033.

The University of Mobile Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program is accredited through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001 and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033.

The University of Mobile Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program and the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) degree program are approved by the Alabama Board of Nursing, RSA Plaza, Suite 250, 770 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104.

Undergraduate Program Options

The University of Mobile, School Of Nursing offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree. Both programs prepare graduates for generalist practice to provide direct and indirect care to individuals, families, groups, communities, or populations (AACN, 2017).

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree may be completed through one of the following three tracks:

• Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (ABSN)
• Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (TBSN)
• RN-BSN Program

Undergraduate Program Descriptions

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) option is designed for the student with no previous college experience.  The student is not required to complete any pre-requisties prior to entering the program and will be allowed to take non-nursing courses along with the nursing courses.

 At no time will students who have begun the ADN program be permitted to change to the TBSN or ABSN program.                 

Students may achieve a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree from one of the following three track options:

1. The Accelerated (ABSN) option is designed for the student who has an undergraduate or graduate degree in another field of study or who is 23 years of age and has earned a minimum of 63 hours of prerequisite courses. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on the last 60 hours in the undergraduate degree. This program begins in the spring semester each year.

 At no time will students who have begun the ABSN program be permitted to change to the TBSN or ADN program. 

2. The traditional (TBSN) option is designed for the traditional student with no previous college degree and no licensure as a registered nurse. This program track is designed for freshman entry-level candidates; however, transfer students may also apply. The first two years (freshmen and sophomore) are designated as pre-nursing and the second two years (junior and senior) are designated as clinical nursing. Approximately 60 semester hours of general education and prerequisite coursework are required before the student may be admitted to the clinical component.

At no time will students who have begun the TBSN program be permitted to change to the ABSN or ADN program.

3. The RN to BSN option is designed for students who have graduated with an associate degree in nursing or a diploma in nursing and are currently licensed as Registered Nurses in the United States (exception: see #1 below). Nurses holding an unencumbered nursing license are eligible to apply. The program’s length varies, depending on equivalent prerequisite courses completed, and the choice to pursue part-time or full-time enrollment. This track prepares graduates to enter professional positions in various care settings and for advancement to a graduate degree program in nursing. The RN to BSN student will not need to take time off from work or find a preceptor. All clinical practice experiences are earned while on the job.

Students entering the University of Mobile RN to BSN must be free from inhibiting physical or emotional handicaps, student in the mobility program must complete the admission requirements of the university.  Admission to the University does not guarantee admission to the School of Nursing.  To be eligible for unconditional admission to the clinical component of the RN to BSN Mobility Program, the student will:

1. Be currently licensed to practice as a registered nurse with an unrestricted license. (Students in an ADN program or  graduates from an ADN program (who graduate in May of the current year) can begin the RN-BSN program without a nursing license.  Students not passing the NCLEX licensure exam cannot progress in the program.  After successfully passing the NCLEX exam the student may reapply to the RN-BSN program.)

2. Be free from inhibiting physical or emotional handicaps,, including the ability to perform necessary psychomotor skills, normally associated with bedside nursing without assistance.   

3. Submit to background checks, drug screens, and maintain current immunizations.                 

4. Have current CPR certification in infant, child, and adult.

5. Have absence of criminal conviction.

Suggested Course Sequence for RN-BSN Program

Associate Degree End of Program Student Learning Outcomes

To produce students who are able to:

1. Support the nurse’s role by applying foundational nursing knowledge and skills during the delivery of patient care across various healthcare settings. 

2. Justify the importance of communicating effectively with different interdisciplinary healthcare professionals to ensure collaborative, patient-centered care in diverse healthcare environments.  

3. Deliver culturally sensitive and compassionate care, showing respect for patient’s mental health needs and diverse backgrounds and values across various healthcare settings. 

4. Organize complex patient healthcare needs by using clinical judgement and evidence-based practice to make informed clinical decisions. 

5. Evaluate and adheres to ethical and legal principles of health policy while upholding standards of professionalism and patient advocacy.  

6. Develop compassionate, patient-centered care plans based on assessments and evaluations to meet individualized healthcare needs. 

7. Plan quality improvement and safety measures within healthcare settings to ensure optimal patient outcomes.  

8. Facilitate system-based practice and resource coordination tailored to include diverse populations, effectively addressing healthcare disparities, and promoting equitable access to quality care across varying social determinants of health.  

9. Integrate healthcare informatics and technology to manage and improve the delivery of safe, high-quality, and efficient health care services. 

10. Generate comprehensive personal, professional, and leadership opportunities by exhibiting resilience and well-being to foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in healthcare delivery.  

Bachelor Degree End of Program Student Learning Outcomes

To produce students who are able to:

1. Interpret actions using comprehensive clinical judgment and a broad base of foundational knowledge to effectively assess, manage, and coordinate diverse patient healthcare needs across the healthcare continuum. 

2. Justify implementing patient-centered care plans that address diverse physiological, cultural, and spiritual needs, while demonstrating empathy, respect, and compassion for both patients and their families. 

3. Prioritize the provision of equitable patient care across the healthcare continuum while emphasizing diversity and inclusion in all communities. 

4. Evaluate research findings to integrate evidence-based actions into patient care and demonstrate how these actions help to enhance patient outcomes. 

5. Develops nursing care strategies that foster a culture of safety and ensure optimal patient outcomes. 

6. Summarizes the significance of effective communication and interprofessional collaboration in promoting team-based, patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings. 

7. Analyzes nursing interventions that address healthcare disparities and consider the impact of healthcare costs on accessibility and effectiveness in diverse populations. 

8. Explains how proficiency in informatics and healthcare technology can help to enhance clinical judgement and ensure safe, effective patient care in diverse populations. 

Standards and Documents Relevant to Undergraduate Programs

ADN curriculum is based on the standards of practice found in the ACEN Accreditation Manual 2017 Standards and Criteria (edited July 2020).

BSN curriculum is based on the standards of practice found in The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice (2008), The Essentials: Core Competencies for Nursing Education (2021), and the CCNE Standards of Baccalaureate and Graduate Nursing Programs.

All undergraduate curriculum is guided by the following standards and documents:

AACN Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education (April 2021)

Alabama Board of Nursing Practice Act and Administrative Code (2016)

The American Nurses’ Association Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements (ANA, 2016)

American Nurses Association. 4th edition (ANA; 2021). Nursing: Standards and Scope of Practice. Washing, D.C., (http://www.nursingworld.org)

National League for Nursing (NLN; 2020 Revision). Scope of Practice for Academic Educators.

Section III: Administrative Policies and Procedures

Address/Name Changes

It is important for university officials to be able to locate and send official correspondence to students. Students are required to notify the registrar’s office of any name, address, or phone number changes, even if those changes are also made in self-service. It is the student’s responsibility to keep address and other directory information current.

Americans with Disabilities Act/Student Disability Services

The University of Mobile provides accommodations to enable students with disabilities to access the University community, in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 [29 U.S.C. 794(a)] and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) [42 U.S.C. 12101, et seq.]. Reasonable accommodations are determined based on current documentation and are made on a case-by-case basis. Adherence to academic standards that are essential to a course of study is generally considered non-discriminatory. Students with disabilities are required to maintain the same level of responsibility for their education as other students attending the University of Mobile. These responsibilities include maintaining levels of academic performance expected of all students, meeting class requirements, maintaining appropriate behavior, and following the University’s policies and procedures.

Students requesting accommodations from the University of Mobile must self-identify by contacting the Student Success Center. The university encourages students to request accommodations before the semester begins. If the student chooses to delay providing documentation and/or making a request for accommodations, the University of Mobile will not provide accommodations in a retroactive manner, but they will be granted once the request has been approved by the disability support services coordinator . A reasonable amount of time is expected in order for the university to implement these accommodations. Submitting an application for accommodations does not ensure that the student qualifies to receive accommodations

The Center for Student Success determines the student’s eligibility for accommodations and, for eligible students, determines appropriate accommodation. The University of Mobile will provide reasonable accommodation as long as it does not fundamentally alter the nature of the program. In the event that a student is unable to fulfill admission and progression standards, with or without reasonable accommodation, the student will not be admitted into, or be allowed to progress in the School of Nursing.

The nursing program at the University of Mobile is a rigorous mental and physical program and places specific requirements on the students enrolled in the program. All nursing students must be able to meet the Core Performance Standards (See Appendix B). In addition, students are expected to complete all the academic and clinical requirements of the undergraduate program in nursing before they are eligible to graduate.

The confidentially of all documents will be maintained in accordance with the applicable law. Documentation may be shared with faculty or staff on a need-to-know basis.

Commencement

Degree-seeking undergraduate students are expected to complete all requirements for graduation in order to participate in commencement. 

The University of Mobile holds a graduation ceremony once a year in May.

Communicating with Faculty

Students are encouraged to stay connected to their academic advisor and course faculty. Faculty members are available to assist with concerns related to course content, examinations, and other assignments.

A number of different sources are available for students to communicate with faculty. All full-time faculty and staff are on the University of Mobile Voice Mail System. If the individual the student is attempting to contact does not answer the telephone, the voice mail system is activated, and students may leave a message regarding the purpose of their call. The student should include their full name (no nicknames), telephone number, and a time that may be convenient to return the call with the message. It will be important that the student speak slow and distinctly when leaving a message. A listing of faculty office numbers is provided in the faculty directory on the School of Nursing website as well as in this handbook.

All faculty and staff (including adjunct faculty) maintain a University of Mobile email account. Faculty members will check their email inboxes Monday -Thursday intermittently to maintain contact with colleagues and students. Students may email faculty at the addresses that are published in the faculty directory on the School of Nursing website as well as in this handbook.

Each full-time faculty member will have at least seven (7) office hours posted each week. Part-time faculty members will post at least five (5) hours each week.  These hours are set aside to meet with students regarding questions about course content as well as to discuss other concerns. There may also be opportunities to see faculty members without scheduled appointments; however, students are encouraged to make appointments to ensure that they have sufficient time to discuss concerns/issues with their nursing faculty.

Students may call nursing faculty at home or on their personal cell phones only for emergencies and only when instructed to do so by the faculty member.All other calls are to be made during the faculty member’s office hours. Texting is also only permitted if the faculty member has granted permission for the students to do so and only under special circumstances.

Students should make every effort not to email or call nursing faculty on the weekends (Friday - Sunday) or on university holidays. Although faculty may choose to respond to emails / calls during the weekend / holiday, they are not required to do so.

Faculty are expected to respond to student emails / calls within 24 hours, with the exception of weekends and holidays. Any correspondence with the faculty member that is received Friday - Sunday and on holidays will be addressed upon the faculty members return to campus. This also applies to a faculty member who may be out on sick leave or vacation.

Confidentiality

The faculty and staff of the University of Mobile School of Nursing recognizes the importance of protecting the private and confidential information of patients/clients, their families, employees, staff and peers as well as the operation(s) of agencies within which the faculty and students’ practice.

It is the legal and ethical responsibility of every student to abide by the laws relative to privacy including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) guidelines. HIPAA regulations require providers to protect patient confidentiality in all forms - oral, written, and electronic. All information pertaining to patients/clients is considered confidential. Students must agree to abide by the regulations promulgated by the American Recovery and Investment Act of 2009 (HITECH or Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act) as applicable to each clinical agency used for clinical laboratory experience.

HIPAA regulations provide serious civil and criminal penalties for violation. Civil penalties can be as high as $25,000 per violation. Even unintentional disclosure can involve serious penalties.

All nursing faculty and nursing students agree to:

• Adhere to HIPAA and HITECH guidelines.
• Read, understand, and comply with confidentiality and privacy policies in each clinical experience.
• Access, use or share confidential information only as it is essential and allowed by law. All printouts, photocopies, written and electronic information produced for use during a clinical shift must be secured at all times and destroyed prior to the end of that clinical shift. Notes and work products, necessary for academic requirements, must have all identifiers removed.
• Never release protected health information to any unidentified source.
• Avoid discussion or disclosure of patient information outside of the academic setting. This includes, but is not limited to, areas of public and social gatherings, on-line social networking, social media, blogs, and any areas specified by the policy of the clinical setting. Students should never talk about patients/clients in public, avoiding conversations in elevators, dining facilities, and in situations where others may overhear.
• Avoid leaving patient/client records or information where unauthorized persons might see them. No part of the medical record, or duplication thereof, may be removed from the clinical setting. At all times, the medical record must be secured according to the clinical setting’s policy.
• Avoid the use of patient/client’s names using initials only.
• Immediately report to the clinical and course faculty any incident or suspected incidents of unauthorized access and/or disclosure of protected health information.

Core Performance Standards

A unique combination of essential cognitive, emotional, psychomotor, physical and professional skills is required for degree completion within the School of Nursing. All students are expected to be able to demonstrate the essential skills and abilities on a regular basis, with or without reasonable accommodations in order to demonstrate the ability to provide quality nursing care in both the clinical and classroom setting. A candidate for a nursing degree must possess abilities and skills, which include the Core Performance Standards (See Appendix B).

The Core Performance Standards are the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning skills needed by the student to meet program objectives and requirements. The use of a trained intermediary is not acceptable in that a candidate’s judgment must be mediated by someone else’s power of observation, selection, and assessment.

This policy applies to applicants and current students. If a student has a disability and requires reasonable accommodation to fulfill program requirements, the student must follow the process to request such accommodations through the Student Success Center. The process to request accommodations should occur upon admission to the program of study or as soon as a need is identified. The School of Nursing will endeavor to make reasonable modifications and accommodations for students with disabilities, without compromising patient safety, performance standards or posing undue administrative or financial burden. The Undergraduate Program Chair, in collaboration with the faculty, will review any request for accommodation. Evaluating and facilitating accommodation requests is a collaborative process among the candidate, the School of Nursing, and the Student Success Center.

CPR-AED/BLS Certification

It is the student’s responsibility to obtain a two-year certification in basic life support (BLS) for the healthcare provider. This certification may be obtained from the American Heart Association (Healthcare Provider BLS Course) or the American Red Cross (CPR for Healthcare Providers) and should be maintained throughout the entirety of the student’s enrollment in the school of nursing. It should include adult, child, and infant CPR, two-person rescue, choking, and use of AED. Proof of original certification (and renewal if necessary) should be uploaded to and approved by Magnus prior to the first day of clinical in the hospital. Failure to maintain current BLS certification at any time while enrolled in the school of nursing will prohibit the student from participating in any clinical activities, simulation or hospital, and from progressing to the next clinical course

Criminal Background Check Policy and Procedure

The School of Nursing recognizes its role in maintaining a safe environment for students and patients/clients. Health care agencies require employees and students to meet local and state regulations. Therefore, a background check is required for all nursing students enrolled in the School of Nursing. Arrests or convictions, which could jeopardize the health and safety of patients, may render students ineligible for placement in a clinical agency. Ineligibility for placement in a clinical agency to perform nursing care for completion of clinical objectives will result in course failure and dismissal from undergraduate nursing programs.

Students must disclose any arrests and/or situations that will be revealed on a criminal background check to the admissions coordinator that may prevent admission into the nursing program. Failure to do so will result in the student being ineligible for admission into the nursing program.

As a result of Joint Commission guidelines mandating criminal background checks on all employees, volunteers and students, healthcare agencies are requiring background checks and drug testing for nursing students working in clinical settings. Therefore, all undergraduate nursing students entering the UM School of Nursing will consent to and complete a Certified Criminal Background Check (See Appendix C). Failure to submit a Certified Criminal Background Check will suspend the matriculation process and/or enrollment in any undergraduate course.

• New students: As a precursor to participating in clinical learning activities, students seeking admission to the Undergraduate Nursing programs are required to have a Certified Criminal Background Check. Students may also be required to have additional checks once enrolled in the program. The School of Nursing must certify to clinical agencies, where students participate in clinical activities, that each student has had a negative background check with no adverse finding.
• Matriculated students: Supplemental or additional background checks may be required to meet the requirements of a clinical agency. Once enrolled in the undergraduate nursing program, students are compelled to disclose any legal or criminal convictions or arrests within a three (3) day time period.

The Criminal Background Check will include a local and national review of relevant records including county of residence criminal records, residence history for the last seven years, Social Security verification, nationwide sexual offender registry, and nationwide healthcare fraud and abuse scan.

Student Disqualification Guidelines

A student will be denied clinical placement by a health care facility and will be dismissed from the nursing program in which they are enrolled if the student admits to, or if a Certified Criminal Background Check reveals charges for one or more of the following crimes: murder, manslaughter, carjacking, use of a weapon in the commission of a crime, robbery or theft (including, but not limited to, theft by falsification of financial records or embezzlement), passing worthless checks, credit card fraud/fraudulent use of a credit card, forgery, identity theft, burglary, arson, kidnapping, false imprisonment, home invasion, assault, battery, resisting arrest with violence, domestic violence, any stalking offense, rape, sexual battery, trespass for sexual purposes (peeping), lewd and lascivious behavior (an act upon a child and/or in the presence of a child), child abuse, child abandonment, child neglect, any crime involving physical violence against a child, possession of child pornography, exploitation/neglect/abuse of a disabled adult or elderly person, sale/delivery/trafficking in narcotics, felony possession of a controlled substance, any other felony level offense involving violation of a drug abuse prevention and control law(including but not limited to felony level possession, sale, purchase, manufacture or use of controlled substance in violation of applicable law), felony driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, falsification of prescription records, hate crimes, terrorism, and/or escape or attempted escape from incarceration.

Consequences for a Criminal History

• If a criminal background report indicates any positive criminal history, the Undergraduate Program Chair and the Dean for the School of Nursing will send a letter to the student requesting a written explanation of the indicated incident(s).
• If the student responds that the positive criminal history report is accurate, the Undergraduate Program Chair and the School of Nursing Dean will notify the student in writing that they will be unable to attend the UM School of Nursing and withdrawal from the undergraduate nursing program is mandated.
• Students, who have been convicted of a felony or have pled nolo contendere to a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude, are ineligible for clinical placement and are deemed unable to complete program requirements.

A student who engages in illegal and/or immoral activities and/or who exhibits unprofessional conduct which directly or indirectly endangers the health or well-being of another will be subject to dismissal from the program.

The criminal background report will be held in the strictest confidence; only those individuals who have a need to know related to the student’s enrollment and academic progress (e.g. clinical agency placement) will have access to this information.

Disciplinary Action Report

Any action violating the University of Mobile School of Nursing Academic Policies and Procedures or Administrative Policies and Procedures will result in disciplinary action. The sanctions will be dependent on the nature and severity of the incident and potential or real threat to client safety and well-being or risk to staff, faculty, or students of the undergraduate nursing program, the School of Nursing, and/or the clinical affiliate agency. A Disciplinary Action Report will be completed and the student will be counseled regarding the violation by the Department Chair and/or the Dean of the School of Nursing. The student will be placed on a student improvement plan (if indicated) and/or will be disciplined according to the policy that was breached. The Disciplinary Action Report will be placed in the student’s permanent record.

Disclosure of Legal/Criminal Convictions and Arrests

Students enrolled in the Undergraduate Nursing Program must report any arrests or legal/criminal convictions including, but not limited to, misdemeanors, felonies, sexual offender convictions or government sanctions. If a student is convicted of any criminal offense(s) other than minor traffic violations subsequent to the criminal background check(s) obtained under this policy, the student is required within three (3) days after such conviction to report to the Dean of the School of Nursing the date and nature of the conviction. Failure to report any arrests or legal convictions will result in automatic and immediate dismissal from the School of Nursing. The student will be ineligible to be re-admitted to the undergraduate nursing program at the University of Mobile.

Dress Code for Campus

Unless otherwise advised, students should wear their full uniform to all University of Mobile sanctioned activities. (see uniform guidelines for specific policy)

Drug Screen Policy and Procedure

The School of Nursing recognizes that alcohol abuse and drug use are societal problems that can affect nursing students. These problems can adversely influence the learning environment, and individuals with impaired judgment and decision-making capabilities are not safe in providing care in any health care setting. The School of Nursing has a vital interest in maintaining a safe and healthy environment for its students as well as the patient’s/client’s it serves. Any student under the influence of a drug or alcohol during clinical may pose serious safety and health risks, not only to themselves, but to the patients/clients they are providing care to.

As a result of the Joint Commission guidelines, healthcare agencies are requiring drug testing for nursing students working in clinical settings. Therefore, all undergraduate nursing students entering the UM School of Nursing will consent to and complete a random drug testing (See Appendix D). Failure to submit to a drug screen will suspend the matriculation process and/or enrollment in any undergraduate nursing course and will result in dismissal from the nursing program.

All students must submit to a drug screen and receive a negative result prior to the start of the first day of classes in the first nursing semester.  Admitted students will not be allowed to progress in coursework without completion of a negative drug screen. A negative drug screen is defined as absence of any illegal drug (i.e. cannabinoids, cocaine, phencyclidine, etc.) or medication without a prescription from a licensed prescriber (i.e. amphetamines, opiates, etc.) in the student’s urine.

• New students: Full admission to the program is considered conditional until after completion of a urine drug screen with a negative result. After beginning the program, students may at any time during the curriculum be required to submit to a urine drug screen. This screen may be random or for cause. If a student fails to submit to the drug screen within the time frame allotted, refuses to submit altogether, or has a positive result, they will be dismissed from the program.

• Matriculated students: Supplemental or additional urine drug screens may be required to meet the requirements of a clinical agency.

If the student’s drug screen is positive, the company will contact the Dean of the School of Nursing or the Undergraduate Chair.  The student will then be asked to provide written proof of a prescription along with a note from the prescribing provider on official letterhead stating that this medication was indeed prescribed to this student. Students who are unable to produce these items to substantiate legal usage of the medication will be dismissed from the School of Nursing.

Students Found to be Under the Influence of Illicit Drugs and/or Alcohol

Each student is expected to uphold and demonstrate professional and personal moral standards. The faculty subscribes to the intent of the university policy prohibiting the illegal possession, use or distribution of drugs and/or alcohol by students on university property or as a part of any university activity (on or off campus). Underage drinking is illegal.

Students manifesting behaviors in the classroom or clinical setting (including but not limited to the smell of alcohol or drugs, pupillary changes, slurred speech, motor incapacities, erratic behavior, or other signs and/or physical symptoms suggesting impairment) will be questioned by nursing faculty or their nursing preceptor. If, in the faculty member’s or preceptor’s judgment, it is reasonable to believe that an impairment exists, the student will be asked to leave the classroom/clinical setting immediately and will be required to submit to a drug screen at their own expense. A negative result must be produced within the time allotted by the nursing faculty before the student may return to the classroom or to clinical. Failure to submit to the drug screen or to produce a negative result will result in immediate dismissal from the nursing program. In the case that impairment is suspected, a family member or friend will be contacted to provide safe transportation for the student.

Students in the School of Nursing must comply with the legal, moral and legislative standards in accordance with the Alabama Board of Nursing Administrative Code. A student who engages in illegal and/or immoral activities and/or who exhibits unprofessional conduct which directly or indirectly endangers the health or well-being of another will be subject to dismissal from the program.

Reasonable Suspension of Drug/Alcohol Use

In addition to the pre-clinical screening process for substance abuse, for the protection of patients, faculty, staff, and students, the School of Nursing has the right to require a student to submit to testing for substance abuse at the student’s expense when a faculty member or preceptor has reasonable cause to believe the student is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs including:

1. Abnormal conduct or erratic behavior, absenteeism, tardiness or deterioration in performance.
2. Evidence of tampering with a drug test.
3. Information that the student has caused or contributed to harm of self, visitors, staff, or a patient/client while under the influence of drugs.
4. Evidence of involvement in the use, possession, sale, or solicitation of drugs.

Confidentiality

The status of the drug screen will be held in the strictest confidence; only those individuals who have a need to know related to the student’s enrollment and academic progress (e.g. clinical agency placement) would have access to this information.

Electronic Devices Policy

Electronic devices are those used in the academic setting for data management and academic work. These include but are not limited to mobile devices, smart phones, lap top computers, notebooks, and tablets.

All students will be required to have a laptop computer for testing. Chromebooks and iPads will not be acceptable, as they will not interface with testing software.

Further device requirements can be found at:

https://examsoft.com/resources/examplify-minimum-system-requirements/

It is the responsibility of the student to ensure device compatibility prior to purchasing a new device.  The faculty nor the university will be held responsible if the student purchases a device that is incompatible with the system requirements.

The policy requirements herein are applicable to any academic setting (classroom, clinical setting, and/or laboratory experiences) where an electronic device is required for academic purposes. Failure to comply with the policy violates professional standards and may result in clinical failure and/or other disciplinary action.

• Electronic devices are intended only for testing, clinical referencing, data collection, communication with a provider or faculty and access to point of care evidence based clinical information.
• Electronic devices may not be used for non-academic purposes while in the academic setting.
• The use of electronic devices must follow the clinical setting’s policy concerning electronic devices, including wireless connectivity.
• Course faculty may further define specific guidelines in the course syllabi for the use of electronic devices in the academic setting.
• Use of any electronic device to tape or record faculty and/or lecture presentations is not permitted and is in violation of School of Nursing policy.

Eligibility for NCLEX-RN Examination

All nursing students must comply with legal, moral, and legislative standards, which determine acceptable behavior of the nurse and shall avoid those behaviors that may be cause for denial of licensure to practice as a registered nurse, in accordance with the Nurse Practice Act and Administrative Code for the Alabama Board of Nursing.

It is important for nursing students to be familiar with the Alabama Board of Nursing (or to the state board of nursing to which they intent to apply for licensure) regulations for eligibility for initial and continuing licensure. Regulatory questions to prospective candidates include information about their criminal history, substance use history, physical/mental health history, etc. Specific questions include: “Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a criminal offense other than a minor traffic violation?”; “Have you within the last five years abused drugs/alcohol OR have been treated for dependency to alcohol OR illegal chemical substances?”; and “Have you within the last five years received inpatient OR outpatient treatment OR been recommended to seek treatment for mental illness?” These questions represent only a sampling of questions regarding a prospective student’s history regarding activities that must be carefully examined by the state Board of Nursing before action toward licensure can proceed forward.

Successful completion of the nursing program in no way guarantees successful passage of the licensing examination (NCLEX-RN). In addition, the Board of Nursing may refuse an applicant permission to sit for the exam for reasons other than those listed in this handbook. The School of Nursing holds no responsibility if the Board of Nursing in the state in which the student is seeking licensure refuses to allow the student to take the NCLEX-RN.

If a student is concerned about eligibility, they may contact the Alabama Board of Nursing at P.O. Box 303900, Montgomery, AL 36130-3900 or online at https://www.abn.alabama.gov/

Other state boards of nursing information may be located online.

E-Mail Policy

All University of Mobile official communications with the student will be provided through the UM E-Mail address that is assigned to the student upon official admission and enrollment. All official information including, but not limited to, student billing, faculty-student communications, course registration, financial aid information, student handbook changes, etc. will be sent to the student’s school email address representing official notification. This includes all correspondence from the School of Nursing. The University accepts no responsibility for any emails forwarded by the student from their official UM email account. The University is only responsible for ensuring that email gets to the student’s email account that is maintained by the University. Students are responsible for monitoring their UM email account frequently (at least twice daily).

Employment of Students

Since the ability to handle combined responsibilities of college and employment is so highly individualistic, students are encouraged not to work; however, there is no policy limiting the number of hours a student enrolled full-time in the School of Nursing may be employed. Although there are no policy restrictions regarding employment, students should be prudent with the number of hours they work each week. Students who fail to meet the academic standards in the School of Nursing secondary to employment responsibilities will receive no special consideration, regardless of financial need.

Students employed by clinical agencies should be aware that neither the University of Mobile nor the School of Nursing assumes any responsibilities for activities as employees of that agency, nor should the student represent themselves as a nursing student rather than as a facility employee at any time other than during sanctioned clinical activities. University of Mobile School of nursing name tags and uniforms should also not be worn when students are functioning as employees of outside hospitals or agencies.

Following completion of the first semester, students may be allowed to work as a certified nursing assistant at local healthcare facilities. A letter documenting the student’s completed clinical activities will be supplied by the 1^st semester nursing faculty member upon request.

Graduation Requirements

Degrees for Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) are awarded to nursing students who have completed all required courses in their respective curricula (ADN, ABSN, TBSN, or RN-BSN) and are students in good standing at the University.

Students must submit an “Intent to Graduate” form to the Registrar’s Office during the semester before they graduate. The deadline for this application is published each semester on the university website and/or is available in the Registrar’s Office. Students with questions regarding their eligibility for graduation should seek assistance from their assigned advisor and/or the Registrar’s Office (Located in Rosemary Adams Building).

Health History

Prior to the start of their first semester, each student must complete a Health History form and have it signed by a healthcare provider (MD, PA, or NP). The form should be uploaded into Magnus, and it should be updated with any changes as they apply throughout the program. Failure to complete and upload or to update this form as needed may result in course withdrawal or failure.

Immunizations

Health care workers, including students participating in clinical experiences, are at risk for contracting a variety of communicable diseases. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has specific recommendations for health care workers, in addition to the usual adult immunization requirements, to better protect health care workers and the populations they serve.

The University of Mobile, School of Nursing requires its students to provide validation of certain immunizations and/or immunities prior to the start of the clinical component and prior to clinical placements. All clinical sites require proof of immunizations and/or immunities required by the program prior to clinical placement.

Students who fail to provide proof of immunizations and proof of immunity, or a qualified exemption required by clinical sites will not be permitted to participate in clinical experiences that are necessary for program completion. It is also possible that some clinical agencies may require immunizations in addition to those required by the UM School of Nursing.

Required Immunizations

Waiver of Receipt of Required Immunizations

If a student is unable to or chooses not to receive the required immunizations due to a medical contraindication or religious belief, they must provide  appropriate documentation as identified by each healthcare facility used for clinical participation. Medical waivers must be signed by a licensed healthcare provider. Family members or close relatives may not complete a waiver for the student.

Uploading Relevant Information to Tracker Service

Prior to beginning classes in the nursing program, students will receive information regarding the companies used for background and drug screens (CoreScreening) as well as for confidentially maintaining required documents and healthcare records online (Magnus Health). Students are required to personally submit payment for the background and drug screen, and this must be completed prior to the first day of class in the first semester of nursing courses. It is the responsibility of each student to maintain their Magnus portal and to keep all documents up-to-date while in the program. At no time will a student be permitted to participate in clinical activities  without submission and approval of all necessary requirements.

Licensure for RN-BSN Students

Registered Nurses in the RN-BSN program must hold an active and unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse. The School of Nursing will verify all licenses each semester. If a student’s license has been suspended or the Board of Nursing has placed the student on probation, the student will be unable to continue in the nursing program until the encumbrances have been rectified. If the Board of Nursing has revoked a student’s license as a registered nurse, the student will be dismissed and will be ineligible for re-admittance to the School of Nursing.  (See exception for ADN students - Undergraduate Program Descriptions/ADN)

Literary Format (APA)

To provide consistency, uniformity, clarity and standardization for written documents in the School of Nursing, the publication manual of the American Psychological Association (APA) is the adopted style for all written documents. When writing papers as part of course requirements, students should use the APA format.

Lost and Found

Any articles found in the nursing building should be given to the School of Nursing Administrative Assistant. If a student has lost any item, an inquiry should be made to Robin Anderson at 251.442.2253 or mail to randerson@umobile.edu.

Net Etiquette

Net Etiquette describes professional communication and behaviors for online communication and interaction (email, discussion board postings, chats, blogs, etc.) to ensure a forum for dynamic and engaged learning. The expectations for Net Etiquette are that all students are respectful and courteous in all communications. Teaching and learning processes work best with free and open exchange of ideas, yet in an electronic setting, without the benefit of facial expressions, body language or tonal cues, miscommunication and misunderstanding may occur. Students should demonstrate respect and courtesy by welcoming dissenting opinions, respecting personal privacy, and/or creating or maintaining a culture of civility.

Conduct in the online setting is as important as face-to-face interaction. Appropriate communication contributes to the perception of professionalism. Students should:

• Have honest and kind communication.
• Use clear, concise, and appropriate language.
• Use proper titles to address others (for example, Dr. Smith or Professor Jones).
• Be thoughtful, judicious, and professional about the use of emotions, sarcasm, jokes, or humor.
• Re-read, proof, and edit communications and discussion board postings before uploading and sending.
• Compose written communication, discussion board posts, or other online assignments offline before posting.
• Include their full name (no nicknames)

Pinning Ceremony for Students

Graduating seniors in the ADN, ABSN, and TBSN programs are honored with a Pinning Ceremony at the conclusion of their course of study. To participate in the Pinning Ceremony, students must have satisfactorily completed all requirements for their designated undergraduate program. There are no additional fees for participation in the pinning ceremony.

The nursing pin symbolizes successful completion of the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree/Associate Degree in nursing and is worn on the nurse’s uniform following graduation. All graduating seniors will receive as a gift from the University of Mobile and the School of Nursing a nursing pin. The pin will be placed on a crimson red ribbon and presented during the Pinning Ceremony by a member of the nursing faculty or by a person of the student’s choosing.

The School of Nursing Pin was re-designed by faculty and students in 2017. The Torch and Flame on the Nursing Pin represent truth and knowledge. These powerful symbols also indicate that Jesus Christ is the Light of the World, God as the Source of Divine Wisdom, and a renewed spirit and transformed mind that is the aim of a University of Mobile education.

Proctoring Service

Students enrolled in online courses with examinations may be asked to take proctored exams at their own expense. In the event that a proctoring service is required, the student will be given information regarding the appropriate service to use as well as receive instructions on how to enroll in the service.

Professional Conduct

Nursing professionalism is comprised of behaviors, practices, and communication styles that demonstrate core values of nurses working to achieve optimal health outcomes in patients, families, and communities. This includes conduct that applies the principles of excellence, caring, ethics, respect, communication, and accountability. Students learn these principles through self-assessment, responsible learning, effective communication, and continuous professional engagement.

A student who engages in illegal and/or immoral activities and/or who exhibits unprofessional conduct which directly or indirectly endangers the health or well- being of another will be subject to dismissal from the undergraduate nursing program. This policy is in effect not only in the classroom and clinical setting, but also when the student is in the community representing themself as a University of Mobile School of Nursing student. For this reason, students should not be in uniform outside of sanctioned School of Nursing / University of Mobile events, especially when engaging in any activities that could be misconstrued as unethical, illegal, and/or immoral.

Purpose of a Syllabus

The course syllabus is designed by the instructor as a study guide and learning aid for the student. The syllabus is not intended to be construed as a contract, either expressed or implied; however, students are expected to follow the guidelines and requirements as set forth within each course syllabus.  The course faculty reserves the right to alter the syllabus as needed with the understanding that students will be notified by email or course announcement of any changes or modifications that are made.

Syllabi are required for all nursing courses and can be obtained from the course site on Canvas. Students are responsible for reading the syllabus and understanding the course expectations and requirements.

School of Nursing Location and Hours of Operation

The School of Nursing is located on the third floor of the Weaver Hall Building. The School of Nursing is open from 7:30 AM until 5:30 PM, Monday through Thursday. Offices are closed on Friday.

Social Media/Networking Policy

The definition of “social media” is broad and constantly evolving. The term generally refers to Internet-based tools that allow individuals to communicate; to share information, ideas, personal messages, images, and other content, and in some cases, to collaborate with other users in real time. Social media is also referred to as social networking. Social media and networking include but is not limited to:

• Blogs, and micro-blogs such as Twitter.
• Social networks, such as Facebook.
• Professional networks, such as LinkedIn.
• Video sharing, such as YouTube, Second Life, and vlogs (video logs).
• Audio sharing, such as podcasts.
• Photo sharing, such as Flickr, Instagram, and Photobucket.
• Social bookmarking, such as Digg and Redditt.
• Public comment sections on webpages (such as those for online news sites), RSS feeds, etc.
• User created web pages such as Wikis and Wikipedia.
• Any other internet-based Social Media/Social Networking application similar in purpose or function to those applications described above.

All University of Mobile School of Nursing students (clinical, didactic, research, teaching) must adhere to regulations provided by HIPPA, HITECH, and assigned clinical agencies policies regarding any usage of electronic devices in or out of the clinical or classroom setting.

• Permission may be granted by nursing faculty or assigned preceptors to use electronic devices for enhancing learning in the classroom or patient care environment.

Some electronic communication, networking and/or postings are subject to public view; therefore, students are responsible for all content and are subject to disciplinary action if they engage in misuse or abuse. Misuse of electronic devices includes but may not be all inclusive:

• Patient information
• Communication or postings of illegal, obscene, defamatory and/or slanderous statements
• Postings of obscene photos or videos
• Discrediting of any person(s) or group(s)

Students enrolled in the School of Nursing Undergraduate Program are expected to be compliant with the Social Media/Networking Policy. Appropriate and professional behaviors include:

• Maintain ethically prescribed professional boundaries surrounding the nurse-patient relationship in the online environment in addition to the classroom.
• Follow HIPAA guidelines at all times. Identifiable information concerning patients/clinical rotations must not be posted in any online forum or webpage.
• Report promptly any identified breach of confidentiality of privacy to faculty or other appropriate authority.
• Avoid transmitting or placing online individually identifiable patient information.
• Practice restraint when disclosing personal information on social networking sites. Even seemingly innocuous pictures and comments can impact the respect and trust patients and others have for University of Mobile nursing students.
• When posting your point of view, neither claim nor imply that you are speaking on the University of Mobile’s behalf, unless you are authorized to do so in writing.
• Understand that patients/clients, colleagues, peers, institutions, and employers may view postings.

In accordance with the ANA Code of Ethics, it would be inappropriate and unprofessional for an undergraduate student to:

• Engage in communication with patients/clients and their family members on social networking sites.
• Post on behalf of the University of Mobile, School of Nursing or as an official representative of the School of Nursing without written approval.
• Take any pictures in any clinical, laboratory, or practice site without written approval.
• Share, post, or transmit any personal information, health information, or images by way of electronic media. Sharing this information is a violation of patient’s rights to confidentiality and privacy.

Considerations

• Students are legally liable for what is posted on their own site and on the sites of others. If in doubt, practice professional restraint and don’t post.
• Privacy does not exist in the world of Social Media/Social Networking. Consider the consequences if a post becomes widely known and how it may reflect on you personally as well as the University of Mobile and the School of Nursing.
• Consider the professional image you want to present and make sure that any content you post is consistent with your professional goals.

Social Media/Networking Policy Misuse Disciplinary Actions

Students who share confidential information are at risk of disciplinary action including course failure and/or dismissal from the program. There may be legal ramifications for students who breach institutional confidentiality agreements.

Disciplinary Actions

1. First policy violation:
   • Notification of the incident to the Undergraduate Program Chair and the Dean.
   • One-on-one meeting with the course faculty and the Undergraduate Program Chair.
   • Review of the UM School of Nursing Social Media/Networking Policy.
   • Disciplinary actions may result in immediate dismissal from the School of Nursing.
2. Second policy violation:
   • One-on-one meeting with the Undergraduate Program Chair and the Dean.
   • Review of said infraction and status in the School of Nursing.
   • Disciplinary actions may result in immediate dismissal from the School of Nursing.
3. Third policy violation:
   • Immediate dismissal from the School of Nursing.

Standard Precautions

Due to the nature of the practice of nursing, students may come in contact with patients or specimens capable of causing disease. It is imperative that appropriate infection control techniques and precautions be followed. Appropriate standard precautions and needle and sharp precautions, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control are adhered to by the UM School of Nursing. In order to limit transmission of blood borne diseases, students are not permitted to perform invasive procedures on themselves or other students in the Nursing Skills Lab. Invasive procedures include, but not limited to, any form of injection or venipuncture. Additionally, students may not practice invasive procedures on themselves, others students, faculty, family members, or agency staff in the clinical setting. Students are permitted to perform invasive procedures in clinical care settings on patients with direct supervision of licensed personnel.

Despite careful and conscientious practice of standard precautions, it cannot be guaranteed that students will not be exposed to blood or body fluids.

All students should read and adhere to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Basic Infection Prevention and Control and Worker Guidelines at www.cdc.gove/infectioncontrol/guidelines/index.html.

General Procedure Following Exposure, Illness, or Injury

If an exposure/illness/injury occurs during any student experience, the student is responsible for immediately reporting the incident to the clinical faculty and to the agency where the incident occurred. The initial care following any injury, illness, or exposure to blood or body fluid should be the same procedure used for employees of the agency. Regardless of the place for initial care (agency or private medical provider), the student or the student’s insurance carrier will be financially responsible for any and all charges incurred. All post-exposure or follow-up care should be conducted by the student’s choice of private medical provider. At no time will the University or the School of Nursing accept financial responsibility for student exposure or injury related to accident, so all students are encouraged to maintain health insurance.

Student Badges

All students are required to have an official University of Mobile, School of Nursing photo I.D. badge as a means of identification. The photo ID badge should be worn and be visible on the student’s uniform during all class meetings, at all clinical sites, and during any sanctioned School of Nursing activity that requires students to be in uniform.  If a healthcare facility requires students to obtain an ID badge that is specific to their facility, students should wear that badge when at that facility in place of their university badge.

Technology and Computer Requirements

All undergraduate online courses are offered through a learning management system called Canvas.

Participation in online courses requires the student to have access to a computer and to have the ability to send and receive email. The University of Mobile provides an email account for every student. Course professors must be able to correspond with students through email and may require them to communicate with their classmates through email. Course faculty and clinical preceptors will use the UM student email account for all email communication unless otherwise specified.

By enrolling in an online course, the student is granting the faculty permission to post their name and email address on the course website and otherwise distribute that information to other students in the class.

University of Mobile’s network enables access to external facilities, systems, and other networks over which University of Mobile has no control, including capabilities, which are incidental to providing such access. Some of these resources may not support the University of Mobile’s goals and objectives. Although the University of Mobile does not exercise editorial or censorship control of such external resources, the University of Mobile expects that technology will not be used for purposes, which are immoral, illegal, or inconsistent with the mission. The University of Mobile Information Technology Department monitors faculty and students email for Spam.

Inappropriate uses of technology include but are not limited to those specifically prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Without limitation, examples of inappropriate uses of technology include:

• Sending of harassing, threatening, or obscene material to minors and/or non-consenting adults or any attempts to confuse or frustrate another user in achieving their objectives.
• Random or unauthorized bulk sending or mailing of messages.
• Inappropriate use of access.
• Unauthorized release of information and viewing of University of Mobile’s data outside of institutional objectives.
• Any disregard for the security mechanisms that are in place or other attempts to gain unauthorized access to technical resources. This includes possession of, or attempts to acquire another user’s password or allowing others access to technology resources that are not allocated for their use;
• Use of technology resources to achieve academic credit by dishonest or deceitful means.
• Malicious transmission of a computer virus.

Students are expected to:

• Utilize the UM email system as the primary means of communication for university issues between the student, faculty, and staff. To ensure a quality learning experience, students are expected to check their email at least twice daily and respond to faculty with 24 hours of an initial email.
• Practice good Net Etiquette throughout each course by demonstrating respect.
• Assure that computer hardware and required software is installed.
• Assume a self-motivated, independent, and engaged learning role.
• Meet course deadlines.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding information communicated related to patients, employers, and other students.
• Obtain course work missed due to interruption in internet service or technology failure. Extension of assignment deadlines will be considered at the discretion of the faculty.

It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that their computer meets or exceeds the requirements necessary to maintain success with course learning. At no time will computers be supplied by the university or the school of nursing.

Tobacco Use and Smoking Policy

The School of Nursing has a vital interest in maintaining a safe and healthy environment for its students as well as maintaining safe and healthful conditions for its patients/clients. Nursing students are not permitted to use tobacco products (including electronic cigarettes and vapes) when acting as a representative of the School of Nursing. This includes but is not limited to any clinical function or any time the student is wearing their clinical School of Nursing uniform. Students are not permitted to smoke or use tobacco at clinical sites or when attending a professional function required by the School of Nursing.

Transportation Requirements

Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation to all required clinical practice sites.  If a student does not have a functioning motor vehicle to transport them to clinical facilities, it is their responsibility to find an alternate form of transportation.  If this transportation is from a classmate, it should be a classmate who is scheduled to be at the same facility at the same time as the student.  Schedules, assignments, etc. will not be changed because of transportation concerns.

Students must understand that the University of Mobile, School of Nursing, nor the clinical agencies/affiliated institutions are responsible for any accidents that may occur while in route to or from any school sanctioned activity (i.e., class, clinical, community service, etc.) and that no responsibility will be taken by the aforementioned parties.

Students are reminded that if they transport other classmates, to and from class or clinical sites, they are assuming personal liability in the evident of an accident.

Plagiarism Detection

The University of Mobile’s School of Nursing highly values academic integrity and is committed to the fundamental value and obligation of preserving academic honesty among our students. The University of Mobile uses plagiarism software as a formative process to help students develop and improve scholarly writing skills, while promoting academic honesty. These products are used to identify plagiarism and to help students write academic papers more skillfully.

In addition to determining the percentage of “originality” and “similarity” in the submitted paper, the software also has other important features such as spell checker, grammar checker, online editing, and automatic tips for proper citation.

Appropriate references for the use of Plagiarism Detection software will appear in the course syllabus.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology may limit critical-thinking, problem-solving, and the development of professional skills that are required of students enrolled in undergraduate education courses. AI technology may include the use of programming engines, software, and/or assignment generating programs (i.e., chat gpt). Students in the school of nursing, unless otherwise notified by the course instructor, are not authorized to use any AI software to prepare and/or develop graded assignments. Faculty may screen student assignment submissions for AI detection using plagiarism detecting software. Student work that is detected to have been AI generated will be considered plagiarism and will not be tolerated. If a student is found to have used AI to prepare and/or develop a graded assignment without express permission by the course instructor, penalties may include, but are not limited to, a score of zero on the assignment, failure of the course, and/or suspension / expulsion from the program.

Uniform Regulations

The University of Mobile, School of Nursing believes that professionalism begins with personal appearance. The public’s perception of nursing may influence the effectiveness of nursing practice and should be considered as care is being provided. The School of Nursing Uniform Policy has been designed to ensure high standards of dress and appearance that represent our school and university in a professional manner within the community. This policy also reflects a consistency with infection control standards, safety concerns, and patient comfort guidelines.

Students are required to be in complete uniform during all class and clinical experiences, including the days they are in simulation, skills lab, or at the hospital for patient selection and data retrieval. Students should also be in complete uniform when requested by the Dean of the School of Nursing, the Undergraduate Program Chair, and/or the faculty, to represent the School of Nursing.

Students who are noncompliant with any part of the uniform policy while in class and/or clinical may be subject to disciplinary actions which include, but are not limited to, dismissal from the setting and/or receipt of a clinical unsatisfactory day.

Students are required to wear the designated School of Nursing uniform, featuring the University of Mobile School of Nursing logo embroidered on the front. This uniform is exclusively available for purchase at the University of Mobile Spirit Store on campus. Additionally, students must wear an official University of Mobile School of Nursing photo ID name badge while in uniform. Students must also adhere to all the uniform guidelines listed below.

• Uniform. Should be clean and well pressed each time it is worn. Long sleeves may be worn beneath the uniform only if they are solid black with no words or logos visible. Turtlenecks are not permitted under the uniform at any time. Student name badge should be visible at all times.
• Shoes. Uniform shoes should be solid black and made entirely of leather. They should be non-permeable, meaning they should not allow water or other liquids to pass through, and they must not have any mesh inserts. The shoes should be comfortable and durable enough for regular use. Solid black shoes designed specifically for healthcare workers that are water or liquid resistant are acceptable (however, this must be verified prior to the student wearing them in the clinical setting) It is important to keep the shoes clean and polished, and they must have clean black shoelaces. The shoes must cover the entire foot, so clogs, sandals, and open-toed shoes are not allowed. Additionally, the shoes should not have any visible designs.
• Socks. Socks should be solid black and must fully cover the ankle. No low-cut or no-show socks are allowed.
• Hair. Should be worn off the uniform collar and kept neat. Ponytails or braids that extend beyond shoulder length must be placed in a bun. Hair should not sweep across the face or eyes. Hair color must be a natural color, avoiding extremes included, but not limited to, pink, red, yellow, purple, or green. Glitter spray, sequins, and other artificial adornments are not allowed. Hair restraining devices should be unobtrusive, and headbands should be plastic for easy cleaning. Hairstyles that include multiple colors, shaved eyebrows, extremes in bleaching, dyeing or tinting, dreadlocks, Mohawks, and long spiked hair (whether colored or natural) are not appropriate. Beards, mustaches, and sideburns must be short and neatly trimmed, and students without beards or mustaches should be clean-shaven. No artificial eyelashes are allowed.
• Fingernails. Must be clean, neatly trimmed, and well groomed (no more than ¼ inch long). Artificial or painted nails (including clear polish), gel nails, and acrylic nails are not allowed.
• Make-up. Should be conservative and must reflect a professional image.
• Earrings:
  • Female students are allowed to wear only one small earring in the lower ear lobe (small stud only). For safety reasons, hoops and dangling earrings are not permitted, and the size of the earrings should not exceed 8 mm. 
  • Male students: No visible piercings of any kind allowed while in school of nursing uniform.
• Visible body piercings, including but not limited to nose, facial, or tongue studs, and multiple ear piercings such as those in the upper ear, daiths, and ear gauges, are not permitted. No oral jewelry is allowed. Piercings in the face, nose, or any other visible body location must be removed completely and are not allowed while in the School of Nursing uniform. Clear substitutes for these piercings are also not permitted.
• Tattoos or body art must be completely covered or appropriately concealed at all times. Students must wear a long sleeve black shirt to cover visible tattoos on their arms.  Smaller tattoos on the wrist, neck, etc. that are visible may be convered with a bandage, band-aide, or make-up.
• Jewelry. Students may wear a watch, wedding band, and/or engagement ring. No other jewelry is allowed.  Smart watches may be worn in the classroom, but are prohibited in the clinical setting or while taking a test. 
• Perfumes, scented lotions, aftershaves, body sprays and other scented products should not be worn.
• Personal cleanliness is a prerequisite for patient/client care. Regular bathing, hair washing and use of deodorant are part of personal cleanliness.
• Health care facilities are smoke-free and tobacco free. Smoking (including the use of electronic cigarettes and vapes) is not permitted while the student is in uniform/professional dress. Students will not  be permitted to participate in patient care or in clinical laboratory if they smell of cigarettes. Smoking is also prohibited on the University of Mobile campus.
• Name Badge. The student must use their given first and last name (no nicknames) under which they are registered. If the student’s name changes for any reason, a new badge that reflects the name change should be obtained as soon as possible. At no time my a badge from any other school be worn while the student is in the school of nursing uniform.
• Lab Coats. White lab coats with the University of Mobile logo must be purchased from the University Spirit Store on Campus. These lab coats are the only acceptable outerwear while in the clinical setting. The lab coat must be at least mid-thigh in length and have a collar. Lab coats that are too large may be altered for a better fit; however, at no time (including pinning ceremony) should the length be altered to be shorter than mid-thigh.
• Other outerwear: A Jacket, other than the specified lab coat, may be worn in the classroom only; however, this jacket must be either solid black or be black and feature the University of Mobile or School of Nursing logo. These are the only permitted logos. Students may wear this jacket to and from the clinical facility as outerwear, but at no time are they permitted to wear the jacket while inside the facility during the clinical experience or during patient pick-up (this includes simulation).

• Students may wear a sweatshirt over their uniform top while in the classroom only; however, the only acceptable sweatshirt is a black sweatshirt that features the School of Nursing logo. This sweatshirt can be purchased exclusively from the University Spirit store on campus (there is also a black t-shirt with the School of Nursing logo that can be worn with the approved scrub pants). A student who enters the classroom with any unapproved outerwear will be asked to remove the outerwear or leave class and may not return. Repeated offenses may include additional disciplinary action. Students who come to any clinical activity in unapproved outerwear will be sent home with a CUD and be required to do a make-up day.

• No “fanny packs” or scarves/neckties are permitted.
• No part of the uniform may be worn in combination with “street clothes” (For example, the uniform top may not be worn with blue jeans). Students should not wear the School of Nursing uniform in inappropriate settings outside of class, even if a jacket is being worn and the UM logo is not visible. These settings include, but are not limited to, while consuming alcoholic beverages, while sitting at a bar even if alcoholic beverages are NOT being consumed, or inside of adult stores.  It is important to remember that any time a student is in their School of Nursing uniform, even if the logo is not visible, they are representing the School of Nursing and the University of Mobile.  Students who fail to comply with this policy will be held accountable under the guidelines listed for community behavior in the university student handbook.

Students who fail to comply with any part of the uniform policy will not be allowed to  remain in the classroom setting or to participate in clinical practice. Once the student is asked to leave, they will not be allowed to return until the next class or clinical day. Repeated offenses may lead to course failure and/or dismissal from the nursing program. The University of Mobile shall have no obligation to refund tuition, accommodate the student, or make any other special arrangements in the event the student is unable to meet the dress code requirements of the school of nursing and/or the clinical agency.

Weather

Information regarding school closure during inclement weather will be provided to students in several different modalities, including RAM alert: email, text message, and by telephone notification. In addition, the UM website will post messages regarding class or university closure. Students are also encouraged to listen to local radio or television stations.

Students who are at a clinical agency when a school closure occurs will be informed of how to proceed with the remainder of the day by the Dean, Undergraduate Chair, or course instructor.

Withdrawals

Beginning the first day of a semester, students who decide to drop all classes must officially withdraw from the University. Students who choose to withdraw from the University for any reason, other than dismissal from the nursing program, have the option to schedule an exit interview with the Dean prior to withdrawing. It is the student’s  responsibility to notify the Business Office of their decision to withdraw from the University and comply with all designated UM policies and deadlines.

Failure to follow all appropriate guidelines for withdrawal from the university, will lead to failure in all courses for which the student is registered. Under no circumstances does simply informing course faculty or administrative staff within the School of Nursing about a student’s intention to withdraw from classes fulfill the requirements for official withdrawal from the university. The official University Withdrawal date for each semester is established by the Registrar’s Office. Students should refer to the Academic Calendar for respective dates and address all related concerns and questions to the Registrar’s Office.

Upon confirmation by a student’s instructors of persistent non-attendance, the University reserves the right to withdraw the student for the academic term with an effective date matching the last known date that the student attended class.

Prior to withdrawing from any course, students receiving scholarships or other financial aid should contact a financial aid counselor to discuss the financial implications of a University Withdrawal.

After a student withdraws from a course, they may not request to be readmitted into the course. There will be no exceptions to this policy.

Section IV: Academic Policies and Procedures

Academic / Professional Integrity Policy

The University of Mobile has established a policy for students regarding academic integrity. The School of Nursing adheres to this policy as it relates to academic dishonesty by nursing students.

Students attending the University of Mobile are expected to reflect a high standard of academic integrity and conduct in accord with basic Christian principles and the mission of the University. Any student found to be disruptive in class, or copying, plagiarizing (with or without an intent to deceive), cheating, engaging in unauthorized use of a test, forging or falsifying records (self or patient, university, or clinical agency), or lying to a faculty member in order to complete a course assignment will be subject to disciplinary action.

The following are violations of the Academic Integrity Policy:

1. Cheating:
   • Unauthorized use of any materials, notes, sources of information, study aids or tools during an academic exercise. No computer watches, cell phones, calculators, palm computers or hats are allowed during exams.
   • Unauthorized assistance of a person, other than the course faculty during an academic exercise.
   • Unauthorized viewing of another person’s work during an academic exercise.
   • Unauthorized securing of all or any part of assignments or examinations in advance of the submission by the faculty.
2. Fabrication/Falsification:
   The unauthorized invention or alteration of any information, citation, data or means of verification in an academic exercise, official correspondence of a university record, client record, or other professional documentation.
   • Failure to report errors in the clinical area.
   • Falsifying patient/client records by charting incorrect data or removing data.
   • Releasing confidential information about patients/clients to persons who do not have the right to such information.
   • Rude, abusive, or unprofessional language to patients/clients, agency personnel, faculty.
   • Jeopardizing a patient’s/client’s safety.
3. Plagiarism:
   Submitting as one’s own work or creating any material or an idea wholly or in part created by another. This includes, but is not limited to:
   • Oral, written and graphical material.
   • Both published and unpublished work.
   • Any material(s) downloaded from the internet.
   • Unauthorized use of artificial intelligencce (AI)
4. Complicity:
   Helping or attempting to assist someone to commit an act of academic dishonesty.
   • Conveying test information to other students.
   • Reproducing information in duplicate for course assignments.
5. Unprofessional behavior (verbal or written, virtual or live):
   • Disrespectful to faculty, staff, or peers.
   • Use of inappropriate language.
   • Lack of accountability or responsibility for actions.
   • Disregarding the well-being and needs of patients: acts of commission or omission that could adversely affect the patient, e.g., medication errors, failure to provide safe and appropriate care, failure to follow preceptor/faculty instructions or breach of client confidentiality.
   • Discriminatory or culturally insensitive behavior.

   • Participating in immoral or unethical behavior while representing the university and/or school of nursing in any capacity.

6. Academic Performance:
   Any reason that may place the student at risk for dismissal such as:
   • Insufficient or lack of academic skills to support successful completion of graduate program of study.
   • Inconsistent or minimal participation in coursework.
   • Poor writing or verbal communication skills.
   • Frequent requests for exceptions or special accommodations not related to a documented disability.

Each faculty member has the responsibility of defining academic/professional expectations at the beginning of each session. If a faculty member discovers a student violating the academic/professional integrity code, they must either 1) assign a grade of “0” for the test or assignment if the infraction relates to an academic assignment; and/or 2) refer the incident to the BSN Faculty Committee. After committee members complete the investigation, the incident, along with supporting evidence, is to be reported the Dean of the School of Nursing who then forwards the documentation to the Vice-President for Academic Affairs.

The office of the Vice-President for Academic Affairs determines whether the incident is the student’s second offense and, if so, refers the matter to the Academic Affairs Committee for disciplinary action. A student found guilty of a second offense may be subject to academic suspension for up to one academic year. A third offense will result in academic dismissal. The student is entitled to appeal any case involving allegations of academic dishonesty or misconduct, in keeping with the appeal process as outlined by the University.

Falsification of medical records may have academic as well as legal consequences for which the student may be held accountable.

Academic Misconduct

Academic integrity is a responsibility of each student attending the University of Mobile. Plagiarism, cheating, falsifying records (self or patient, university, or clinical agency), lying and any other of academic dishonesty are intolerable. The BSN Faculty Committee will discipline any student, participating in any form of academic dishonesty, after a thorough review.

Academic Warning/Probation/Suspension

All undergraduate students must maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 to be considered in good standing and to be eligible for graduation. It will be at the discretion of the registrar as to whether to administer an academic warning to a student or to place them on academic probation or suspension. Students should consult with the registrar if they have any questions related to their academic standing.

Adding or Dropping from Classes

During specified periods each semester, students may add or withdraw from a course (see the Academic Calendar from the Registrar’s Office for official dates). Students should consult with their academic advisor prior to adding or withdrawing from a course to ensure that all appropriate guidelines are followed. This should be done prior to the official university withdrawal date to prevent an “F” from being recorded on the student’s transcript.

If a student chooses to drop or withdraw from a course after the last official day to drop a course, a grade of “F” will be recorded on the student’s transcript and will be treated as such for progression in the program.

Admission Standards and Requirements

Students applying for admission to any undergraduate program must meet all University requirements and be accepted for admission to undergraduate study by the School of Nursing. Admission to the School of Nursing is competitive and will be based on evaluation of the applicant’s overall academic qualifications.

The University of Mobile and the School of Nursing accept students on the basis of academic qualifications, character, and evidence of the potential to benefit from the university experience. The University accepts qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, and veteran status.

Admission Requirements for the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Program:

• Submit application to the University of Mobile for general admission to the college and an application for admission to ADN Clinical Nursing.
• Have a minimum ACT score of 19 or higher.
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 on all prior college work.  If no previous college credit, the high school GPA must be a minimum of 2.5 (or GED score of 50 or higher.)
• Submit final transcripts from any college previously attended OR submit final high school transcripts (or GED) to Enrollement Services if no prior college.
• Have required current immunizations as specified by the School of Nursing.
• Have a Medical History form and be free of inhibiting physical or emotional disabilities, including the ability to perform necessary psychomotor skills normally associated with bedside nursing without assistance. 
• Submit to background checks and drug screenings.
• Have absence of criminal conviction.
• Have CPR certification (infant, child, and adult).
• Have current, personal health insurance coverage.
• Have satisfactory performance on a written and spoken English competency examination or its equivalency upon request.
• Have repeated each science course no more than once.

Admission Requirements for the Accelerated Bachelors of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Program:

• Submission of application (https://www.umobile.edu/apply/).
• Submission of official transcripts of all college coursework from all institutions attended.
• International Students
  • Students with international transcripts must provide an evaluation from Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (http://www.cgfns.org) for previous nursing coursework.
  • Students with international transcripts must provide evaluation from World Education Services (http://www.wes.org) for previous Non-nursing coursework.
  • International students must show proof of English proficiency. Applicants should request that official TOEFL test scores be sent directly to Enrollment Services.
• 23 years of age at the time of entering program for students without an earned Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree.
• Completion of a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in any course of study from a regionally accredited educational institution.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 hours of academic coursework.
• Submission of a clear background check.
• Submission of a clear drug screen when requested.
• Submission of Health History and record of required immunizations.
• A personal interview with the Undergraduate Admissions Committee of the School of Nursing may be required, if requested.
• Students without an earned bachelor or master’s degree must also complete the following prerequisites: English Composition (6 Hours); English Literature (3 Hours); History (3 Hours); Mathematics (3 Hours); Public Speaking or Introduction to Philosophy (3 Hours), General Psychology (3 Hours); Statistics (3 Hours); Christian Studies (6 Hours); PSY 301, Human Growth and Development (3 Hours); BIO 201, Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab (4 Hours); BIO 202, Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab (4 Hours); BIO 301, Microbiology with Lab (4 Hours); and Electives (18 Hours). Students must achieve a grade of “C” or higher for all courses.
• Students with an earned bachelor’s or master’s degree must complete the following prerequisites: PSY 301, Human Growth and Development (3 Hours); BIO 201, Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab (4 Hours); BIO 202, Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab (4 Hours); and BIO 301, Microbiology with Lab (4 Hours).
• Students should be able to uphold the practice standards, functional abilities (Core Performance Standards), and ethical codes of the nursing profession.

Admission Requirements for the Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (TBSN) Program:

• Submission of application.
• Submission of official transcripts of all college coursework from all institutions attended.
• International Students
  • Students with international transcripts must provide an evaluation from Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (http://www.cgfns.org) for previous nursing coursework.
  • Students with international transcripts must provide evaluation from World Education Services (http://www.wes.org) for previous Non-nursing coursework.
  • International students must show proof of English proficiency. Applicants should request that official TOEFL test scores be sent directly to Enrollment Services.
• Minimum cumulative GPA 2.75 on all academic coursework.
• Completion of a minimum of 55 semester hours of specified courses including successful completion (“C” or better) of BIO 201, Anatomy and Physiology; BIO 202, Anatomy and Physiology II; BIO 301, Microbiology; MA 107 or 110; Intermediate Algebra; MA 211, Statistics; NU 252, Professional Socialization; and PSY 301, Human Growth and Development.
• ACT score of 21. Students with a GPA of 3.0 will be exempt of ACT requirement.
• Submission of a clear background check.
• Submission of Health History and record of required immunizations.
• A personal interview with the Undergraduate Admissions Committee of the School of Nursing may be required, if requested.
• Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 for consideration into the program. Applicants for clinical nursing are considered on a competitive and space available basis for each admission period.
• Clinical Admission Criteria include completion of the following prerequisites:
• NU 252, Professional Socialization; PSY 301, Human Growth and Development (3 Hours); MA 107 or MA 110 (3 Hours); MA 211, (3 Hours); BIO 201, Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab (4 Hours); BIO 201, Human Anatomy and Physiology II with Lab (4 Hours); and BIO 301, Microbiology with Lab (4 Hours). Students have achieved a grade of “C” or higher for all courses. Prerequisite courses may be repeated only once.
• Students must also have completed the following core prerequisites: English Composition (6 Hours); English Literature (3 Hours); History (3 Hours); Mathematics (3 Hours); Public Speaking or Introduction to Philosophy (3 Hours); General Psychology (3 Hours); Christian Studies (6 Hours); and Electives (15 Hours). Students must achieve a grade of “C” or higher for all courses.
• Students should be able to uphold the practice standards, functional abilities (Core Performance Standards), and ethical codes of the nursing profession.

Admission Requirements for the RN-BSN Program:

• Submission of official transcripts of all college coursework from all institutions attended.
• International Students
  • Students with international transcripts must provide an evaluation from Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (http://www.cgfns.org) for previous nursing coursework.
  • Students with international transcripts must provide evaluation from World Education Services (http://www.wes.org) for previous Non-nursing coursework.
  • International students must show proof of English proficiency. Applicants should request that official TOEFL test scores be sent directly to Enrollment Services.
• Minimum cumulative GPA 2.75 on all academic coursework.
• Completion of a minimum of 60 semester hours of specified courses including successful completion (“C” or better) of Humanities and Fine Arts, including two courses in English Composition (15 Hours); Christian Ministries (6 Hours); Natural Science and Applied Science with one course in basic statistics (18 Hours); Social Sciences and Behavioral Sciences (18 Hours); and Electives (3 Hours).
• Have an unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse.  (See exception for ADN students in Undergrade Program Requirements).
• Submission of a clear background check.
• Submission of Health History and record of required immunizations.
• Submission of record of Healthcare Provider CPR Certification (CPR-AED/BLS Certification).
• A personal interview with the Undergraduate Admissions Committee of the School of Nursing may be required, if requested.

Advising Responsibilities

Advising is an integral part of the student experience at the University of Mobile. It is a collaborative process in which students are expected to assume primary responsibility for their academic planning while advisors provide expertise and support in the process.

A student accepted into one of the undergraduate nursing programs will be assigned an advisor. Upon enrollment, each student is assigned an advisor to assist the student with academic concerns, planning the program of study, and assuring that graduation requirements are met. Education is ultimately the responsibility of the learner, but the advisor’s input into the student’s plan of study and semester schedule enhances student awareness of how each course contributes to overall progress towards graduation.

Responsibilities of the Advisor include:

• Develop an individualized plan of study with the student to meet the student’s academic professional goals based on current curricular guidelines.
• Communicate with the student to facilitate registration (e.g., overall program, approve course selections).
• Keep informed of student progress through:
  1. Communicating with the student.
  2. Communicating and discussing progress with other faculty members.
  3. Monitoring grades and academic standing each semester.
  4. Referring the student to the appropriate campus resources if requested.
  5. Communicating with the Dean, the Academic Vice-President, the Registrar for course substitutions and transient course requests when appropriate.

Responsibilities of the Student Advisee:

• Clarify with the advisor their preferred method of contact (email or telephone), office hours, and when to expect a response to email or voice mail.
• Communicate with the advisor any concerns regarding course registration.
• Contact the advisor if they wish to change the sequence of their plan of study.
• Communicate with the advisor in case of academic difficulty, interruption in program, or potential change in academic status.
• Contact the advisor if their cumulative GPA for the semester is less than 2.0.
• Contact the advisor for questions about campus resources to assist them with their academic work.
• Maintain regular contact with the advisor via email, telephone, or face-to- face meetings.
• Schedule an advising appointment each semester to select classes for the upcoming semester.
• All students must request a “degree audit” with the registrar’s office the first semester of clinical nursing.
• Any change in the program plan made by the student may result in the course(s) being unavailable and may delay graduation.

Class Attendance

Classroom activities and discussion are a vital part of the overall learning process in the discipline of nursing. It is nearly impossible to make up the learning that occurs in a class; therefore, students are expected to attend class each day.

The School of Nursing expects that its students will recognize that they have entered a profession in which a commitment to full participation in the learning environment is an essential component of what will be a style of lifelong learning. Attendance is expected in all educational activities and is required for class, laboratory sessions, and clinical.

Students should plan their personal schedules and obligations around class time. Students should not expect to be excused from required class attendance to participate in events at their children’s school, to attend routine doctor appointments or personal family events like reunions, vacations, weddings, etc. Students are excused from class attendance only for mitigating circumstances, which are defined as jury duty, military duty, funerals of immediate family members, or other serious conditions that prevent attendance.

Students who are absent from class, excused or otherwise, will be required to obtain the missed information from their classmates.  At no time will course instructors provide students with notes (other than those already publicly posted in Canvas) or other information from missed classes.  Students may also not request that a classmate record the lecture for them, as this goes against school of nursing policy. Students who are absent from class for unexcused reasons may not be allowed to make-up any work or activities that were assigned during their absence, and a grade of “0” may be recorded. If a student is aware that they will miss class (i.e., pre-scheduled athletic activities or military duties), any assignments that are due during that time should be turned in prior to the student leaving. Any exams that are scheduled during that time should also be taken prior to the student leaving.

Students who miss more than one class will be required to meet with the dean for the school of nursing prior to returning to class. 

Students should be on time and seated five minutes prior to the beginning of the scheduled class. Timeliness is considered a professional attribute whereas tardiness is considered disrespectful behavior as is disrupts the learning environment. Students who are habitually late will not be permitted into the classroom until the first break. Students are expected to return to class promptly after breaks and not ask permission to leave the class early.

Class Policies

The environment in the classroom is extremely important to the learning process. Most students learn best in a calm, controlled, and quiet environment. Noise and excessive activity is distracting to both students and the faculty so students should be seated before the class begins.

• Cell phones must be turned off or placed on silent (not vibrate) and place in the student’s book bag.
• Electronic devices are allowed for note-taking purposes only.  They should not be used for non-academic purposes during classroom time.  They should also not be used to record the classroom activities in any way.
• Calculators, when needed, will be provided by the School of Nursing.
• Students should attend to personal needs prior to class and/or test time.
• Students are not allowed to wear hats, caps, or any obstructive headgear.
• The instructor reserves the right to assign seats if necessary.
• No sunglasses or dark prescription glasses may be worn unless there is medical documentation of their necessity.
• A late entrance distracts everyone. When class is in session, there should be no talking except to participate in class discussions. Students should not have private discussions/conversations with their classmates. Breaks are given hourly.
• Students are expected to conduct themselves professionally and attend all classes and clinical experiences.
• Students may not bring children or other visitors to class. The content discussed in class may be too sensitive or considered inappropriate for young children.
• No handguns or firearms are permitted in any area on campus or in the clinical setting under any circumstances even if the individual possesses a valid handgun permit.

Course and Program Evaluations

The faculty believes that a systematic ongoing evaluation is essential to the development of strong academic program. Methodical evaluation promotes the search for effective, efficient, and innovative approaches to learning and results in the continuing improvement of the educational program. It provides a basis for making decisions regarding program modifications and changes, resulting in the continuing improvement of the education program. The purposes of program evaluation are to:

1. Determine to what extent students are prepared to meet the objectives of the professional program.
2. Promote continuous improvement in the overall program.
3. Encourage personal/professional growth and responsibility of faculty and students through participation in the evaluation of the educational program.

Students participate in the evaluation process through completion of online evaluations at the end of every course. Each evaluation is a series of standard questions with space for written comments at the end. Feedback on courses is valued and is used to continually improve the classes and offerings. The evaluations are confidential, so honest, accurate feedback is appreciated to allow for corrections or amplification of course content.

Students also have opportunities to share information through student representatives on the Faculty Organizational Committee and Undergraduate Faculty Committee and/or through other informal channels of communication. Students are also asked to complete an end-of-program evaluation at the time of graduation.

Credit Hours

One credit hour is equivalent to fifteen (15) hours of faculty instruction and a minimum of thirty (30) hours of student reading and work on other assignments, excluding class time. For example, a 5-hour clinical nursing course will include 45 hours of didactic or classroom instruction and 90 hours of clinical/simulation learning experiences. A 3-hour non-clinical nursing course will include 45 hours of didactic or classroom instruction. Online classes involve equivalent amounts of time for instruction and coursework.

Dismissal from the Undergraduate Program

Nursing (NU) courses, as referred to below, include all clinical and nonclinical courses that are a part of the nursing curriculum unless otherwise specified.

• Failure of any nursing course is defined as:
  • Earning a “D” or “F” in any NU course. This is indicated as any final grade that is less than a 75% on the grading scale.
  • Withdrawal from a NU course after the designated “drop date.”
  • Receiving two (2) Clinical Unsatisfactory Days (CUD’s) in one (1) clinical nursing course. * This will result in the student failing the course regardless of the grade earned in the didactic (classroom) component.

Students will be permanently dismissed from the undergraduate nursing program and ineligible for readmission to any nursing program at the University of Mobile for any of the following reasons:

• If the student fails any two (2) nursing courses, to include clinical and non-clinical courses.
• If the student fails the same nursing course twice.
  • Each nursing (NU) course can only be taken two times.  If the student fails or withdraws from a course, the course must be repeated.  On the second attempt, the student must successfully pass the course with a grade of “C” or better.  Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the nursing program.  For example, if a student takes NU 309 and withdraws or fails, on the second attempt at NU 309 the student must complete the course and pass with a grade of “C” or better to stay in the nursing program. 
• If the student withdraws from any 3 nursing (NU) courses.
• If the student receives a total of four (4) Clinical Unsatisfactory Days (CUD’s) in clinical courses throughout the entirety of the program.
• If the student exhibits conduct that is unprofessional, incompetent, unethical, or illegal in the classroom or clinical settings as outlined by the American Nurses’ Association Code for Nurses and/or School of Nursing policies.
• If the student is caught cheating on course examinations, commits plagiarism or falsifies documentation of clinical records or activities.

Exit Examination

Students will be given a comprehensive predictor examination prior to recommendation for graduation.  The benchmark score will be set by School of Nursing faculty.  This test will be administered in Senior Seminar, prior to the student beginning practicum.  If a student is unsuccessful in achieving the benchmark score, the faculty will instruct the student to individually remediate prior to the second attempt.  The second attempt will be administered prior to graduation.  All students in Senior Seminar must complete the conprehensive predictor examination with remediation AND finish with a passing average of 75% in the course to be eligible for graduation.  Any student who fails to complete the comprehensive predictor examination with remediation and/or fails to obtain a final average of 75% or better in Senior Seminar/NCLEX Preparation Seminar will be required to repeat the course in the next academic semester.  Students are allowed only one (1) opportunity to repeat Senior Seminar.

Grading

• Grades in non-clinical courses are earned through completion of course requirements. Earned points for each learning activity (examination, written assignment, presentation, etc.) are posted on the Canvas Gradebook throughout the course. Students are responsible for tracking their own progress. Questions or concerns regarding grades earned should be addressed to the course faculty within one week of the grade posting.
• Grades in all clinical nursing courses will be primarily determined using exam grades only. Other assignments may be graded, as “Satisfactory” or “Unsatisfactory,” and will not be used in determining the final course grade. However, students who do not complete these assignments or who receive “Unsatisfactory” grades may be in jeopardy of failing the course.
• Adaptive quizzing and integrated exams may be used for up to 2% total of the final clinical course grade at the discretion of the instructor.
• Students will be required to complete remediation after all integrated tests, regardless of score, proof of which must be uploaded into the appropriate Canvas Nursing Course. 
• There will be no bonus or extra credit questions and/or points given on any nursing examination.
• There is no rounding of test/exam grades in the nursing program. All grades will be recorded through the one hundredth (e.g. 81.27, 68.50, and 80.10).
• At the completion of each course, all grades will be averaged (as specified in the course syllabus), and the final grade ONLY will be rounded, if necessary, as indicated below:
  • Final grades will be rounded to the nearest whole number
  • Rounding will only be affected by the number in the tenth place (the number immediately to the right of the decimal). For example, a score of 74.499 will be recorded as a 74, and a score of 74.5 will be recorded as a 75.
• The instructor makes the final decision on a test/exam grade. If the student believes a test/exam grade is unfair, this may be discussed with the instructor, the course coordinator, the Undergraduate Program Chair, and the Dean (in this order). The student must follow the appropriate chain of command for any formal or informal complaints. The appeal process should be followed in the appropriate sequence and is outlined in this handbook.

Grading Scale

A grade of “C” (75%) or better is required to pass undergraduate level nursing courses in the School of Nursing at the University of Mobile. Final course grades are computed according to the following standard based on a total of 100%, and the Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated by the registrar’s office:

Grievance Policy and Process

The School of Nursing follows a Grievance Procedure for the resolution of formal student complaints or concerns. Formal complaints must be made in writing to the Dean of the School of Nursing and the Undergraduate Program Chair. The formal complaint must include specific information, including the nature of the complaint and evidence supporting the complaint. It should also include how the student would like to see the complaint resolved.  An investigation is initiated within three (3) days of receipt. In cases of alleged arbitrary, inconsistent, or discriminatory grading, the following review process will be followed in the School of Nursing:

1. In on-campus courses, the student will request a meeting with the course faculty to review the basis for the grade. In online courses, the student will request an online or telephone conference with the faculty to review the basis for the grade.
2. If the student is not satisfied with the meeting or conference with the course faculty, the student may appeal to the Undergraduate Program Chair. The Undergraduate Program Chair will seek to mediate the issue between the student and the course faculty.
3. If the student is unsatisfied with the findings and recommendations by the Undergraduate Program Chair, the student may appeal to the Dean of the School of Nursing. The Dean will meet with the student, confer with the course faculty member, and then make the final decision. The student should be notified of the decision within five (5) days of submission of their formal complaint.
4. The student may continue the appeal process in the appropriate chain of command.

Incomplete Grade Policy

A written request for a grade of incomplete (“I”) is initiated by a student when students are unable to complete the work for a course due to reasons beyond their control (hospitalization, serious physical and mental health issues, death of spouse/child/parents, etc.). The grade of “I” is only given in cases where the incomplete is unavoidable and legitimate. Students may be required to provide formal documentation to support an incomplete grade request. Students may not request an incomplete due to failing course grades or poor course performance. An “Incomplete Grade Form” that includes the reason for the incomplete, the work that must be completed to earn a final course grade and the required completion date is generated when an “I” is submitted as a course grade. The completion date must be no later than the last day of the next scheduled academic term. The “I” is a temporary grade and will be automatically converted to an “F” if the course has not been completed by the end of the next scheduled academic term. Extensions beyond one scheduled term are not allowed for undergraduate courses; therefore, incompletes may not be possible in certain programs (i.e. ABSN curriculum). Students who seek an incomplete grade will not be permitted to continue in their curriculum sequence until the incomplete grade is converted to a numerical grade.

Limitation in Completion of Requirements

Students seeking an undergraduate nursing degree must complete all degree requirements within three (3) years of starting their first clinical nursing course. There will be no exceptions granted to the three-year limitation requirement, regardless of the excuse. Time limits shall be computed from and include the first semester of credit applied to the nursing degree program. Students who do not enroll for two (2) consecutive semesters are subject to all program requirements, policies, and guidelines in place at the time of re-enrollment. Re-admission is not guaranteed, and students will be required to meet the current School of Nursing and University of Mobile Catalog requirements in place at the time of their readmission.

Make-Up Examinations

If a student is unable to take an exam as scheduled, the student should contact the course faculty whose examination is going to be miss, prior to the time when the examination is scheduled to be given.  The student should include in the notification, the reason for the absence.

The student will be required to take a make-up exam (which may be in essay format at the discretion of the course faculty) within 24 hours of returning to class and no later than one (1) week from the originally scheduled test date.  This day and time will be at the discretion of the course faculty.  The exam must also be made-up prior to the next scheduled exam.  If the student is unable to take the make-up exam within the above guidelines, a grade of “0” may be give for that exam. 

Excused reasons for missing an exam include the following:

1. Illness that is contagious and prevents the student from being around others.  A provider note, on official letterhead, must be obtained stating that the student was unable to attend class on the day of the exam.  It must also include a return to class date for the student. 
2. Student hospitalization (the above information from the provider also applies).
3. Accident in route to class with appropriate documentation by authorities.  The student must be unable to attend class following the accident. 
4. Death of an immediate family member (parent, sibling, grandparent, spouse, child).

Students who miss for the above reasons will be allowed to make the exam up, based on the above guidelines, without grade penalty. Students who miss for any reason other than the above will be allowed to make the exam up based on the same guidelines, however, an automatic 10% grade deduction will apply at the beginning of the test. Make-up exams for both excused and unexcused reasons may be administered in the form of an essay exam at the discretion of the course instructor.

Students who are unable to attend class on exam day, who are not ill and can still reasonably take the exam, may be given the opportunity to do so at the discretion of the course faculty, via online proctoring.

Students who must miss class on an exam day for pre-scheduled functions (i.e., athletics, presentations, military duty, etc.) must take the exam prior to the day of their absence.  It is the responsibility of the student to inform the course faculty of these occurrences and to set up a day for their exam.

At no time will exam reviews be conducted before all students have taken the exam. 

National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-RN)

The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is the licensing examination for all ADN and BSN graduates. Prior to graduation, all students planning to take the registered nurse (RN) licensing examination should review the information that is located on the University of Mobile website (umobile.edu - academics - schools/colleges - college of health professions - school of nursing - Nursing RN NCLEX information). The steps for testing and licensure must be completed by each student, accompanied by payment of the required fee(s). Students planning to take the licensing examination outside of Alabama are responsible for contacting the State Board of Nursing in the state in which they plan to become licensed for any additional application information.

Students should be aware that successful completion of the nursing program in no way guarantees successful passage of the licensing examination (NCLEX-RN). In addition, the Board of Nursing has the right to refuse an applicant permission to take the exam for any reason they deem is appropriate to do so.

Progression

Within the School of Nursing, students must fulfill the requirements for theoretical/didactic and clinical course components of the undergraduate curriculum, demonstrate academic integrity and ethical conduct, and maintain a level of health which contributes to their meeting course objectives. Progression occurs when a student successfully completes and passes all required courses taken in each academic semester. Academic probation may be imposed to monitor and support the student’s progression through the undergraduate program of study.

Students are required to progress through all clinical courses in the sequence specified in the planned curriculum. The successful completion of each clinical course is mandatory for advancement to the next clinical course.

1. Sequential Completion: Students must complete each clinical course in the order listed in the curriculum. This ensures foundational knowledge and skills are built upon progressively.

2. Failure and Retake: If a student fails to successfully complete a clinical course, they are required to retake the course according to program guidelines.

3. Progression Implications: Failure to pass a clinical course will prevent the student from advancing to the next clinical course in sequence. For example, a student who does not pass NU 309 will be unable to progress to NU 313 until they successfully retake and pass NU 309.

4. Program Guidelines: Specific guidelines for retaking a course and any related dismissal policies are detailed elsewhere in this handbook. These guidelines outline the procedures, timing, and any consequences associated with unsuccessful completion of a clinical course.

This policy ensures that students maintain a structured and foundational progression through the clinical curriculum, ensuring competency and readiness for advanced clinical coursework and practice.

Students enrolled in the undergraduate nursing program at the University of Mobile are required to maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 in all courses taken toward the degree. Students not meeting the minimum academic standard will be placed on academic probation.

Progression Requirements

1. Students must pass BIO 201, Anatomy and Physiology I; BIO 202, Anatomy and Physiology II; and BIO 301, Microbiology with a grade of “C” or better. Each of these science courses may be repeated only once.
2. Students must earn a grade of “C” or better (minimum of 75%) in all nursing courses. A student may not progress to the next nursing course unless a grade of “C” or better is obtained.
3. Dismissal from the nursing program will result if the student fails (earns a grade of “D” or “F”) two (2) nursing courses.
4. Students who withdraw after the designated “drop date” (despite the current grade) will receive an “F” and be considered as having one (1) failure.
5. Each nursing (NU) course can only be taken two times. If the student fails or withdraws from a course the course must be repeated. On the second attempt, the student must successfully pass the course with a grade of “C” or better. Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the nursing program. For example, if a student takes NU 309 and withdraws or fails, on the second attempt at NU 309 the student must complete the course and pass with a grade of “C” or better to stay in the nursing program.
6. Students who withdraw from any three (3) nursing courses will be dismissed from the nursing program and be ineligible for readmission to any nursing program at UM.
7. A student must have both a residential and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher to progress to graduation.
8. Students must maintain current Healthcare Provider CPR Certification (AHA or ARC) at all times while enrolled in the program.
9. All immunizations must remain current while the student is enrolled in the program. Students who do not upload verification of immunizations to Magnus by the designated due dates will not be permitted to attend clinical and may be unable to satisfactorily complete the current course.
10. Students unable to attend clinical are at risk for course failure.
11. Students must take and pass the medication dosage examination according to the guidelines listed in this handbook to progress through each semester.
12. Students will be given a comprehensive predictor examination during Senior Seminar/NCLEX Preparation Seminar and will be allowed to progress to graduation based on the guidelines in the section entitled “Exit Examination”.
13. If a clinical agency refuses to allow a student to participate in clinical activities, the student may be unable to progress in the undergraduate nursing program. Students unable to participate in clinical activities at any hospital for any reason are required to make an appointment with the Dean of the School of Nursing to discuss circumstances and progression.  Failure to do so may result in dismissal from the nursing program.
14. Students will not be allowed to begin their senior year of clinical nursing if all non-nursing courses have not been completed.

Readmission after Voluntary Withdrawal or Transfer

A student who leaves the university and/or School of Nursing in good standing through voluntary withdrawal or a student from another nursing program who left in good standing and desires to transfer to the University of Mobile nursing program may be evaluated for readmission under the following circumstances:

1. Complete an application for admission or readmission to the School of Nursing and the University of Mobile.
2. At the time of application for admission or readmission, submit a statement, which addresses the reason for the withdrawal or transfer, outlines what will be done by the student to ensure success in the School of Nursing, and discusses why the student should be given consideration to be admitted or re-admitted. The statement must be written by the student. Students who have earned two (2) failing grades in nursing courses or who have withdrawn from three (3) nursing courses are ineligible to be considered for admission or readmission into any other nursing program at the University of Mobile.
3. The student will be required to have a personal interview with the Undergraduate Admission’s Committee and/or the Dean. The student’s complete academic record, including all clinical evaluations will be reviewed.
4. Admission or readmission is not automatic or guaranteed. If eligible, students will be considered as part of the total applicant pool and acceptance will be based on space availability.
5. All coursework must be completed within five (5) years of initial enrollment.
6. A student requesting to transfer to UM from another school must submit a letter of good standing from the Dean of the former nursing program attended and have not received two (2) grades of “D” or “F” in nursing courses.

Students who have not been re-enrolled for one semester must reapply for admission to the university and the School of Nursing. Student petitions for reactivation will be considered only one time during their program. Students applying for readmission will enter under the current School of Nursing Undergraduate Student Handbook. Students approved for readmission may be placed on probationary status at the discretion of the Undergraduate Program Chair and the Faculty Organization Committee the student must contact enrollment services to apply for readmission to the university. The application form to reapply for admission to the nursing program will be obtained from the School of Nursing.

Readmission Policy

1. A student requesting to repeat a nursing course must complete an “Application for Readmission” form. Students requesting consideration for readmission must meet the current School of Nursing admission criteria and will enter under the current University of Mobile Academic Catalog.
2. Readmission to nursing courses is not guaranteed and is based on space availability.
3. Nursing courses are valid for only three (3) years. Students requesting to re-enter the nursing program after a three (3) year absence must start completely over with all courses in the undergraduate nursing curriculum.
4. Students who earn two (2) failing grades (“D’s” or “F’s”) in any two nursing courses, who withdraw from three (3) nursing courses, or who are dismissed due to academic misconduct will not be considered for re-enrollment and are not eligible to appeal. Students exhibiting unprofessional or illegal behaviors in the classroom or clinical setting, and/or violating academic integrity policies will not be eligible to be considered for re-enrollment or readmission into any University of Mobile nursing programs.

Registering for Classes

Students must clear any “holds” to be able to register for classes each semester. Students are responsible for contacting their advisor each semester to schedule an advising appointment to register and enroll in courses according to their program of study. The dates for registration are widely publicized.

Remediation

Any student who makes less than a 75% on exam #1 is required to make an appointment witht the course faculty for assistance and remediation.  After exam #1 remediation is optional but highly encouraged for those who are not being successful on their exams and/or in the overall course.

Retention

Students must meet all of the requirements stated under the “Progression” section to be retained in the School of Nursing. Although faculty members strive to assist students by implementing an “open door” policy for counseling and assistance as necessary, it is ultimately the responsiblity of the student to seek assistance when needed.  Students also have access to services provided by the Student Success Center. Students who are struggling with academics are strongly encouraged to utilize the resources available through the Student Success Center.

Standardized Testing

Students enrolled in the undergraduate nursing programs participate in a structured testing program each semester to determine their acquisition of didactic content. Students are tested at the conclusion of each semester and after completing their clinical courses. Students who score below the benchmark score, as determined by the School of Nursing faculty, are required to complete prescribed remediation work.

Standards for Written Work

1. All written work should follow the format as set forth in the current American Psychological Association (APA) manual. The format must be used consistently throughout the written assignment.
2. All references and quotations should be carefully checked for accuracy.
3. All written work must be submitted on the date assigned.
4. Students should read and comply with all instructions provided by the faculty for paper submission.
5. Students may be directed by the course faculty to use UM sponsored plagiarism detection software. Specific instructions will be delineated in course syllabi.
6. Plagiarism will result in disciplinary action in accordance with the academic integrity policy.

Student Appeal Process

If a student has a complaint or any significant criticism of the nursing program, they should follow the appropriate chain of command.

Step 1: The student with a concern, problem, complaint, or issue with dissatisfaction should first discuss their issue with the course professor and/or the course coordinator.

Step 2: If the issue is unresolved to the satisfaction of the student, they may appeal and verbalize their issue with the Undergraduate Program Chair with the course faculty present.

Step 3: If the issue remains unresolved, or the student deems the decision by the Undergraduate Program Chair unsatisfactory, they may prepare a formal written appeal to present to the Dean of the School of Nursing.

Step 4: If the student issue remains unsettled, the Dean will call a meeting of the Faculty Organization Committee to discuss the student’s written complaint.

Step 5: If the student chooses to appeal the decision from the Faculty Organization Committee and/or the Dean, the issue is then taken to the Vice-President of Academic Affairs and/or the Academic Affairs Committee.

Step 6: The last individual to hear student complaints is the President of the University of Mobile.

All appeals should include the following:

1. What the student is appealing (i.e. exam grade, course grade, etc.)
2. The reason for issuing the appeal with examples/information for corroboration
3. What they would like to see happen (i.e. grade change, exam retake, etc.)

Unsatisfactory Clinical/Laboratory Performance

All clinical nursing courses (classes that have clinical hours required as part of the course, such as Fundamentals, Medical-Surgical, Mental Health, Maternal Health, Pediatrics, and Community) have both didactic/theory and clinical/laboratory components.

Students who receive a “U” or Unsatisfactory grade in the clinical/laboratory component will fail the course, regardless of the grade earned in the didactic/theory component. Students who fail the didactic/theory component of the course will also fail the clinical/laboratory component.

Successful completion of these courses requires satisfactory achievement in both areas. If the student is unsatisfactory in one component the course must be repeated. The student must complete both the didactic/theory and the clinical/laboratory requirements for the course regardless of the problem component. There will be no exceptions to this policy.

Tardiness on Exam Days

If a student is late for an exam, they must remain outside of the classroom until all other students have completed the exam.  The student should participate in lecture for the day and will be expected to take the exam immediately following the class lecture.  A 10% grade deduction may be applied at the course faculty discretion, using the guidelines under “Make-Up Exam”.

Test Review

Test review will be conducted after all students have taken the exam at a time designated by the course faculty.  All students are encouraged to attend these reviews, but they will be mandatory for any student who makes less that an 80% on the exam.

During the review, the exam will not be released to students.  The 10 most missed questions on the exam will be discussed, allowing students the opportunity to learn more about the content as well as how to answer certain types of NCLEX questions.

If a student requires further remediation after the review or has questions related to the exam, they will be required to make a 1:1 appointment with the course faculty.  During this time, the exam may be opened for the student to review questions, answers, and rationales.  The student may ask questions for further understanding and clarification of the missed content; however, if at any time the course facutly feels that the meeting is becoming uncontrolled, the review will be closed, and no further discussion will be allowed.

This policy applies to lecture exams only.  The final exam is not reviewable in any course.

Section V: Clinical Policies and Procedures

Core Screening / Magnus

The University of Mobile, School of Nursing has contracted with two non-affiliated vendors, Core Screening and Magnus, to gather and maintain various documentation that is required for all nursing students. Core Screening is the company responsible for gathering information for a full background check and drug screen on each student, and who, after a full review has been completed, will supply the results to the School of Nursing. Magnus is the designated vendor for maintaining all records (immunizations, health history, etc.) that will be required for not only entry into the program but also entry into the hospitals for clinical participation. Each student will be responsible for following the instructions emailed from Core Screening that outline how to sign-up and pay for his program.

Administrative Drop Policy for Failure to Submit Clinical Practice Requirements

It is imperative that all undergraduate students are in compliance with clinical practice requirements for Code of Conduct, Immunizations, CPR-AED/BLS Certification, Criminal Background Check Policy and Procedure, and Drug Screen Policy and Procedure, etc. Students enrolled in a course that contains a clinical component (i.e., has clinical hours required as part of the course) are required to ensure all School of Nursing requirements are submitted and are up to date. Students who fail to submit or update requirements within the first week of the semester may be administratively dropped from the clinical course for which they are registered.

The course instructor or Undergraduate Program Chair may initiate the administrative drop process if a student does not upload all required School of Nursing documents to Core Screening by the designated due dates.

The process for administratively dropping a student for failure to submit evidence of the above requirements will be as follows:

1. If a student has failed to submit the documents required by the School of Nursing (complete and up to date), the course instructor will contact the student via UM email, reminding the student of the submission requirement and notifying the student they are out of compliance. The student will be given three (3) days to submit the required documents to Core Screening.
2. If the student fails to respond to the email directive or fails to submit the required documents or notifies the course instructor of their inability to be compliant, the course instructor will notify the Undergraduate Program Chair and the School of Nursing Dean requesting that the student be administratively dropped from the course and that their access to the course be removed.

Clinical Agency Agreements

The UM School of Nursing has a legal responsibility to have written agreements with each agency used for clinical practice. The Clinical Agency Agreements are established and maintained through the office of the School of Nursing Dean.

The agreements outline the University’s responsibility with the clinical agencies when students and faculty are present. The UM School of Nursing and clinical agencies assume shared responsibilities for the students’ educational experiences in the clinical setting. Selected portions of the clinical agreement directly related to student responsibility are as follows:

• The university will instruct all nursing students assigned to the clinical agency regarding confidentiality of medical records and patient/client data imparted during the educational experience.
• The university will not allow students to participate in clinical experiences who have not documented their proof of immunization for tetanus, diphtheria, and polio; Hepatitis B series; Tuberculin Skin Test (chest x-ray if appropriate); proof of immunity to rubella, chickenpox and MMR.
• If the clinical agency deems a student’s performance to be unsatisfactory and detrimental to its constituents, it may suspend the student from utilizing the clinical agency for clinical experience. The faculty will investigate and decide appropriate disciplinary action.
• The nature of this cooperative agreement is such that each party undertakes obligations to the other without passage of funds between the University and the clinical agency or between personnel and their respective staffs.

Clinical Attendance and Absence Policy

All students are required to notify their course faculty and clinical adjunct of their absence from a clinical experience. The student will make notification based on the course policy by telephone, text, and/or email. It is preferrable that notification be made at least two (2) hours prior to the scheduled clinical time (i.e., student due to commence work at 9:00 am, the faculty and adjunct should be notified by 7:00 am); however, in the case of an emergency, the student should notify the appropriate persons as soon as possible, prior to the start of clinical. Failure to timely notify the appropriate persons may result in a written Clinical Unsatisfactory Day that will be placed in the student’s permanent record. Repeat violations will result in disciplinary actions, including grade penalty and/or dismissal from the School of Nursing.

All clinical absences must be made up in a format selected by the instructor. Failure to makeup a clinical absence will cause the student to be unable to complete the required cliniical hours, resulting in a clinical and course failure.  If more than one absence occurs (regardless of the reason), the course faculty and the Undergraduate Program Chair will evaluate the situation to determine if the student is eligible to continue in the course.

Clinical Course Expectations

The student must be prepared for all clinical learning opportunities. The student must comply with clinical course expectations:

Clinical Hour ADN Requirements

The University of Mobile, School of Nursing recognizes that clinical practice requirements are essential to the educaiton of nurses in practice nursing roles.  Specific courses within the ADN Program requires students to participate in clinical experiences at an accepted clinical site with an approved preceptor or facutly member.  Students must complete a total of 90 clinical hours in NU 107 (Fundamentals), NU 208 (Maternal-Child), and NU 209 (Psychosocial).  225 clinical hours must be completed in NU 110 (Med-Surg I) and NU 210 (Med-Surg II).

NU 211 (Nursing Practicum) requires a total of 108 clinical hours with direct supervision by an approved preceptor.

All clinical hours in are to be completed during the semester in which the student is enrolled.  No clinical hours may be completed after the last day of the course.

Clinical Hour BSN Requirements

The University of Mobile, School of Nursing recognizes that clinical practice requirements are essential to the education of nurses in practice nursing roles. Specific courses within the BSN Degree Programs require students to participate in clinical experiences at an accepted clinical site with an approved preceptor or faculty member. Students must complete a total of ninety (90) clinical hours per each nursing course (NU 309 or NU 309A, Introduction to Clinical Nursing; NU 313 or NU 313A, Adult Health Nursing I; NU 314 or NU 314A, Nursing the Childbearing Family; NU 316 or NU 316A, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing; NU 404 or NU 404A, Child Health Nursing; NU 412 or NU 412A, Community Health Nursing; NU 414 or NU 414A, Adult Health Nursing II; NU 415 or NU 415A, Adult Health Nursing III; NU 417, The Community as a Client; and NU 440, Professional Nursing Practice II.

NU 416 or NU 416A, Nursing Practicum requires a total of 144 clinical hours with direct supervision of an approved preceptor.

All clinical hours are to be completed during the semester in which the student is enrolled. No clinical hours may be completed after the last day of the course.

Clinical Policies

A student must meet all institutional requirements for practice to pursue clinical experiences. Students must perform satisfactorily in the clinical component to successfully pass the overall course. If a student receives an “Unsatisfactory” clinical grade, the student receives an “F” in the course, even though the didactic/theory grade may be passing.

Students must adhere to the policies of the clinical agencies and the School of Nursing:

• Students must complete the required number of clinical hours in each clinical course. To fulfill this requirement, students should not arrive late to the clinical experience or request to leave early. In addition, students should never schedule any personal business during clinical hours (to attend an event at child’s school, routine physicals, lunch dates with friends, etc.). Students are expected to attend clinical experiences as scheduled by course faculty to maximize all learning opportunities.
• Affiliate policies in the clinical agencies may require students to submit to the same drug testing procedures that apply to employees of the facility. Clinical agencies will also mandate verification of immunizations and CPR-AED/BLS Certification. Students who have not met these requirements and/or not submitted verification will not be allowed to attend clinical. Any day missed will be considered an unexcused clinical absence.
• If a clinical agency refuses to allow a student to participate in clinical activities, the student may be unable to progress in the undergraduate nursing program. Students unable to participate in clinical activities at any hospital for any reason are required to make an appointment with the Dean of the School of Nursing to discuss circumstances and progression.
• Students may not use any electronic device in clinical unless approval has been granted by the course faculty.
• There will be no cell phones or smart watches allowed in the hospital or laboratory areas. There is a 0% tolerance for violations of this policy and failure to adhere to the policy will result in the student receiving a Clinical Unsatisfactory Day (CUD) and being sent home. No excuses will be accepted.
• If a student has a physiological or psychological problem that renders him/her unable to perform in the clinical setting, the student may be eligible to take an incomplete or “I” in the course. The student will not be permitted to continue in the didactic portion of the clinical course, if this occurs, and will be required to take a grade of incomplete in all other courses. The student will not be allowed to progress sequentially in the nursing program until the requirements for the incomplete are fulfilled satisfactorily.
• Clinical adjuncts will be required to complete a clinical evaluation on all students in their cllinical group during each clinical rotation.  The evaluation will be completed at the half-way point of clinical and again at the completion of clinical.  Students and adjuncts will be made aware of the location of the evaluation form as well as the procedure for submitting or uploading the form at the begining of each clinical course.

Preceptor Responsibilities for ADN/TBSN/ABSN Practicum:

ROLE:

The preceptor is a registered nurse employed by the clinical agency who has contractually agreed to serve as a role model, teacher, and mentor while demonstrating clincial expertise for the senior BSN student in the clinical setting.  The preceptor should assist the student with setting goals and planning care while providing constructive and meaninful feedback to the student. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The preceptor is expected to:

1. Supervise and guide the student in the clinical area while serving as a role model, teacher, and clinical expert for the student.
2. Provide the student specific feedback on performance during the role transition experience.
3. Notify the faculty coordinator as needed if the student fails to comply with any course requirement or if problems or concerns arise.
4. Validate student hours by initialing the student log at the conclusion of each shift.  It is important that an accurate record be maintained to verify that the student has met the minimum course hour requirements.
5. Notify the student if they are ill and unable to work, if they are given “HR” or if they take vacation/personal day.  It is requested that preceptors not volunteer for HR days while with a practicum student, as there is an extremely limited amount of time in which to obtain the required hours prior to graduation and failure to obtain these hours will affect the student’s ability to graduate.
6. Allow students to accompany them if they are “pulled” to another unit.
7. Encourage and assist the student in reaching the goal of increasing independence, competence, and confidence while keeping in mind that the ultimate goal is always high quality, safe patient care.
8. Select an appropriate patient assignment for the student while helping to guide them in providing safe patient care.
9. Document student clinical performance on a course specific clinical evaluation tool at the end of the practicum experience.
10. Orient the student to the clinical unit and staff.  This orientation should include identification of facility policies, procedures, and protocol. This should take place the first week that the student is with the preceptor.

Faculty Role and Responsibilities for ADN/TBSN/ABSN Practicum:

ROLE:

The faculty are registered nurses with graduate degrees who are employed by the University of Mobile, School of Nursing.  The faculty are ultimately responsible for student learning and are available to support both the student and the preceptor to ensure that course objectives are met.  The faculty member will coordinate with the preceptor to plan, monitor, and evaluate the student experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The faculty will:

1. Collaborate with clinical educators within the facility to select appropriate areas and preceptors (when necessary) to work with students.

• BSN preceptors are preferred for BSN students; however, ADN preceptors are acceptable if they meet the requirements for preceptorship in the healthcare facility
• All Preceptors (both ADN and BSN) should have at least 1 year experience in their area of practice and have met the requirements of their respective facilty for functioning as a student preceptor  

  2. Discuss course objectives and policies for the practicum with preceptors and students.

• If the necessity arises, based on scheduling conflicts or other factors, it will be acceptable for the student to discuss expected objectives with the preceptor.

  3. Communicate with students and preceptors on an ongoing basis and be available for consultation.

• There will be an opportunity for the preceptor and the student to meet with faculty.  These meetings may be held virtually on some occasions.
• When the need arises, however, faculty will be available to meet face-to-face with the preceptor and/or the student.                                                                                

  4. Provide written and/or verbal information that will orient the preceptor to:

• The role transition objectives, content, and policies
• Preceptor responsibilities
• Faculty facilitator and student responsibilities                                                                                                                                                                                              

   5. Assess the student’s and the preceptor’s evaluation of the practicum experience and the preceptor’s evaluation of the student.                                                          

   6. Be responsible for final determination of the student’s successful completion of course objectives.

Clinical Practice Experience for RN-BSN Students

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education defines clinical practice experiences “as planned learning activities in nursing practice that allow students to understand, perform, and refine professional competencies at the appropriate program level. Clinical practice experiences may be known as clinical learning opportunities, clinical practice, clinical strategies, clinical activities, experiential learning strategies, or practice” (CCNE Standards for Accreditation of Baccalaureate and Graduate Nursing Programs, 2016).

The student and the course faculty member are responsible for determining the work to be done to meet the course requirements. During the clinical course

NU 417, The Community as a Client and NU 440, Professional Nursing Practice II, the student is expected to meet the following requirements (AACN Expectations for Practice Experiences in the RN to Baccalaureate Curriculum, October 2012):

• Practice experiences include activities that support health and/or provide care, interacting with a variety of providers and/or with patients and cannot be completed solely by a student in isolation. Patients are defined as individuals, families, groups, communities or populations.
• Practice experiences, including those completed in the student’s work setting, shall include specific objectives, expected outcomes, and competencies, and an evaluation provided by a faculty member.
• Practice experiences may be defined as direct care (point of care activities that are intended to achieve specific health goals or selected health outcomes) or indirect care (nursing decisions, actions, or interventions that are provided through or on behalf of the patient).
• Oversight and evaluation of the practice experience is the responsibility of faculty. Faculty oversight includes responsibility for identifying course objectives for the practice experience, assessing whether the objectives are met, communicating with the student on a regular basis, and evaluating the learning experience.
• Students are responsible for identifying personal objectives for the practice experience and for communicating these objectives to the preceptor.
• Preceptors, if used, should be oriented to the learning objectives of the practice experience, may provide input regarding faculty evaluation of students, and should consult regularly with the faculty providing oversight for the student’s practice experience.
• Preceptors should engage the student in achieving the identified course objectives and integrating the new learning into their practice.
• Complete 90 clinical hours according to the policies and guidelines as stipulated in the course syllabi.

Clinical Site Selection Guidelines and Process for RN-BSN Students

Students in the RN-BSN Program require clinical practice experiences in NU 417, The Community as a Client (clinical requirements should be fulfilled in the community setting) and in NU 440, Professional Nursing Practice II (clinical requirements may be fulfilled in any setting.

Students may complete practice experiences through involvement in direct and/or indirect care experiences while working at their current place of employment using a supervisor at any level as their preceptor. The student should ensure that there is a Clinical Agency Agreement between that facility and the University of Mobile as well as a preceptor agreement signed and on file prior to beginning any clinical activity. These agreements must both be in place for each clinical site where practice experiences will occur regardless of the number of hours that will be completed at the site.

Students who are not currently employed at a healthcare facility will be responsible for securing their own clinical placement and preceptor, both of which must be pre-approved by the faculty instructor. The student should ensure that there is a Clinical Agency Agreement between that facility and the University of Mobile as well as a preceptor agreement signed and on file prior to beginning any clinical activity. These agreements must both be in place for each clinical site where practice experiences will occur regardless of the number of hours that will be completed at the site.

Preceptor Criteria for RN-BSN Students

The University of Mobile relies on clinical preceptors for direct supervision of the practice experience. Preceptors should be registered nurse employed in a healthcare setting. These practicing professionals are the experts who guide the students in NU 417, The Community as a Client, and NU 440, Professional Nursing Practice II, with day-to day experiential learning, role model the most appropriate ways to approach students in a clinical setting.

Serving as a clinical preceptor is an important, challenging, and rewarding activity, which requires time, attention, and consistent availability to students. Because the contribution of the preceptor faculty is so critical to the quality of the student nurse education or administration learning experience, it is essential that the faculty-student-preceptor relationship be built on mutual respect, professional concurrence, and clear communication.

Students who are currently working in a healthcare setting may request that a nurse manager, team leader, charge nurse, or department director (as long as they hold a current nursing license) be their preceptor. If the student is not currently working in a healthcare setting, it is the student’s responsibility to make contact with a potential clinical agency to explore preceptorship opportunities. The course faculty may assist in the process if the student is having difficulty finding an appropriate facility or preceptor. Students should start early in securing appropriate preceptors. When contacting perspective preceptors or clinical site managers, students should present themselves in a professional manner in both dress and speech.

Selection Criteria:

1. The preceptor should have academic preparation with a minimum of a ADN degree and have practiced a minimum of one (1) year.
2. The preceptor must agree to provide opportunities which will allow students to meet course objectives and requirements.
3. The preceptor must state an interest in guiding the student through the practice experience.
4. The preceptor must maintain an unencumbered registered nurse license in the state of practice.
5. The preceptor must have permission from their employing agency to serve as a preceptor.
6. The University of Mobile School of Nursing must have on file or secure a Clinical Agency Agreement for each clinical agency/institution for which the preceptor is employed. Preceptors are employed in clinical agencies with signed, current clinical agreements made between the administration of the University of Mobile contracting on behalf of the UM School of Nursing and the clinical agency’s board of directors or executive officer authorized to sign on behalf of the agency’s governing body. Students cannot begin clinical experiences with a healthcare agency or institution or preceptor without faculty approval and a signed contract that has been approved by the University of Mobile.

Preceptor Responsibilities:

1. Agrees to serve as student preceptor, acts as a professional role model, resource person, and mentor.
2. Assists student with meeting course and personal objectives set forth prior to the start of the practice experience.
3. Assists student with finding available learning activities and projects likely to fulfill the student’s learning objectives.
4. Encourages initiative, individuality, self-assessment, and increasing autonomy, as appropriate, by the student.
5. Shares expertise necessary to function in the clinical site.
6. Provides regular feedback to student regarding progress, strengths and limitations.
7. Completes evaluation of student’s performance and reviews comments with student at the completion of practicum course.
8. Returns evaluation to student for online submission to faculty.
9. Confers routinely with course faculty member directly regarding student’s progress during the clinical experience. Immediately notifies the faculty member if the student’s performance is deemed unsatisfactory.

Clinical Unsatisfactory Days (CUD’s)

A student who receives two (2) Clinical Unsatisfactory Days (CUD’s) in one course will fail the course. Four (4) Clinical Unsatisfactory Days (CUD’s) in total throughout the program will result in dismissal from the nursing program. Clinical Unsatisfactory Days (CUD’s) are cumulative and may be received in any healthcare setting, including simulation.

A. Category I Issues

The student will receive a Clinical Unsatisfactory Day (CUD) for the following infractions:

1. No assignment made on the day prior to the clinical laboratory experience. Students will prepare written or computerized plans of care for each patient each day as specified by the course instructor.
2. Failure to contact the clinical and/or course faculty and clinical unit prior to the assigned time of arrival if unable to be present or tardy. Clinical units should be notified two (2) hours prior to scheduled time.
3. Inadequate knowledge of treatment and/or medications.
4. Inappropriate dress and/or noncompliance to the School of Nursing dress code.
5. Behavior that would reflect negatively on the nursing profession and the University of Mobile such as violation of HIPPA/confidentiality agreements, using profanity, being impaired by chemical or illegal substances, any verbal or behavior that is deemed inappropriate by the clinical and/or course faculty, etc.
6. Leaving an assigned clinical/community experience prior to the time assigned by the clinical instructor and/or course faculty.
7. Failure to complete any pre-assigned work.
8. Failure to comply with any clinical policy as stated in the course syllabus.

Consequences:

The student will be given a Clinical Unsatisfactory Day (CUD) for any Category I violation and will be sent home. The student will be required to make up the day prior to the end of the course.

B. Category II Issues

The student will receive a Clinical Unsatisfactory Day (CUD) for the following infractions:

1. Any drug error
2. Any treatment error
3. A potential error within a course, prevented from occurring by the faculty and/or nursing staff.

Consequences:

The student will be given a Clinical Unsatisfactory Day (CUD) for any Category II violation and will be dismissed for the day.  The student should immediately make arrangements to meet with the course faculty. The student will be required to make up the day prior to the end of the course.

C. Category III Issues

The student will receive a Clinical Unsatisfactory Day (CUD) for the following infractions:

1. Any life threatening or potentially life-threatening error or action by the student to the patient, staff, faculty, or others in the environment.
2. Implementing any action that is in direct violation of the course, school, or institutional policy or instruction.

Consequences:

The student will be given a Clinical Unsatisfactory Day (CUD) for a Category III violation and will be sent home. The student will fail clinical laboratory and fail the course. The student will appear before the undergraduate Faculty Committee to determine if the student will be permitted to repeat the course (this consideration can only be made if the student has not failed any other nursing courses) and continue in the nursing program. The infraction may also result in dismissal from the School of Nursing and render the student ineligible from being considered for readmission.

Dosage Calculation Testing Policy

The Dosage Calculation Testing Policy exists to facilitate dosage calculation competence necessary for safe nursing practice. It is imperative that nursing students assume personal responsibility for maintenance of math skills throughout the nursing curriculum. The dosage calculation test serves as a means for continued assessment of these important skills.

Testing Policy:

Students are required to pass a medication dosage examination with no more than three attempts at the beginning of each semester in which clinical courses will be taken. A second semester junior must earn a score of 80% or better; a first semester senior must earn a score of 90% or better; a second semester senior must earn a score of 100%. Failure to pass a Dosage Calculation Test on the third attempt will result in withdrawal from the clinical course, and the student will be required to demonstrate evidence of math remediation before being allowed to return to the program.

Illness or Injury at Clinical

Students who are injured or become ill while completing clinical hours must:

1. Notify the preceptor and/or faculty member immediately.
2. Follow the agency’s policy and procedure for injury or illness, if appropriate.

Students should refrain from reporting to the clinical area when ill or suspected of being contagious.  This includes, but is not limited to, the student having an elevated temperature, experiencing nausea/vomiting, diarrhea or any other symptom indicative of illness or disease. Students should notify the adjunct and faculty member of their clinical absence as outlined in this handbook as well as in the course syllabus.

Clinical agencies are not compelled to provide medical care free of charge for students who become ill or who are injured during the clinical experience. Students are responsible for any expense(s) incurred. For this reason, all students should maintain personal health care coverage.

Professional Behavior

Students present themselves as ambassadors of the University of Mobile, the School of Nursing and the undergraduate program. Professional behavior is expected of all students on campus and in the clinical setting, as well as in the community when representing themself as a University of Mobile nursing student. Students are expected to be respectful to preceptors, faculty, staff, patients and their families.

Students are expected to abide by all rules and policies of the university and clinical agencies. Reports of unprofessional behavior will result in the student being counseled and is subject to review by the School of Nursing Dean. Examples of unprofessional behaviors include disorderly conduct, inappropriate or offensive language, damage or theft of property, disruption, discrimination, behavior or conduct adversely reflecting upon the nursing profession or the University of Mobile, School of Nursing.

Professional Dress in the Clinical Setting

Students are expected to comply with dress code policies established by the School of Nursing, as well as the policies of individual clinical facilities where they are assigned for clinical practice. Students should refer to the section entitled, “Uniform Regulations” for specific information regarding appropriate uniform selection and dress code for clinical agencies.

RN-BSN students completing their clinical practice experiences at their current place of employment may wear the approved uniform and name badge of that facility (if hours are completed during their regularly scheduled shift).  Students who are not currently employed at a healthcare facility should purchase a set of solid black scrubs and black shoes and should otherwise follow the uniform policy as set-forth in this handbook. The student should wear the approved University of Mobile student nurse ID badge.

Simulation

Simulation Program Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Mobile, College of Health Professions, Simulation Program is to provide quality healthcare education in a Christian environment using high-fidelity simulation learning experiences to best prepare future healthcare professionals to make safe decisions using sound clinical judgment.  

Clinical simulation is designed to meet the needs of current and future nurses. The primary objective of the University of Mobile Simulation Learning Environment (located in the Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice) is to promote a superior level of high-fidelity learning/teaching for students and faculty by providing a state-of-the-art environment to evaluate basic and advanced skills/behaviors.

• Simulation experiences will give students the opportunity to analyze a scenario and apply what they are learning in their clinical nursing courses. The nursing process, caring, communication and documentation, teaching and learning, and culture and spirituality will be integrated into the scenarios. During the simulation experience, students will be presented with an opportunity to critically think through and prioritize the client needs as outlined in the NCLEX-RN Test Plan, to include: Safe and Effective Care Environment, Health Promotion and Maintenance, Psychosocial Integrity and Physiological Integrity.
• All students will be required to sign a consent to be videotaped at the beginning of the clinical semester. Students who wish to revoke their consent at any time throughout the program must do so in writing to the simulation lab coordinator. Students who do not consent to being videotaped will not be permitted to participate in simulation experiences.
• The simulated patient will be given the same consideration as any patient in a clinical setting. This includes the principles of patient privacy, confidentiality, and safety. It is the expectation that students will engage fully in the patient simulation and experience. Students will be given an unsatisfactory if they display during the simulation exercise any evidence of unprofessional behavior (i.e. laughing, malice, inappropriate language, etc.)
• The scenarios are not to be discussed outside of the simulation and debriefing sessions unless part of a course assignment. This is to protect the value of the experience for those who will eventually take part in the clinical scenario(s). Students are required to sign a confidentiality agreement at the beginning of each semester. Disciplinary action will be taken for any student who violates the agreement.
• Students should approach the patient in the simulation setting using the same dress and behavior standard required for all clinical settings, consistent with the Undergraduate Student Handbook. This includes compliance with uniform policy, communication, and preparedness for clinical experiences.
• Universal Precautions are always to be followed as are all safety guidelines used in the clinical setting. Sharps and syringes are to be disposed of in appropriate containers.
• Equipment may not be removed from the simulation lab for practice, nor are the simulation labs to be used for practicing clinical skills, unless supervised by faculty.
• Students are required to access electronic charting during a scenario. Electronic devices will be provided by the Simulation Lab Coordinator.
• Students are not permitted to consume any medications from the simulation lab as they are not appropriate for human consumption and may cause health issues and/or injury if consumed.

Skills Checklist

Each student is expected to achieve identified skills at selected intervals throughout the nursing curriculum. A skills checklist will be provided to each student in the first nursing course and should be maintained by the student each semester thereafter, through the end of the nursing practicum. Each skill that the student completes should be verified by the student and validated by the clinical instructor (or registered nurse employed by the clinical facility) each clinical day.  It is the student’s responsibility to maintain the accuracy of the skills checklist and to ensure that all skills have been validated no later than the completion of each clinical rotation.  Although students are not required to complete all skills listed on the checklist, any skill marked as “required or mandatory” must be completed prior to graduation.  Students will be expected to upload the completed checklist into the appropriate Canvas course after they have completed their practicum hours in NU 416, NU 416A, or NU 211. 

Section VI: Student Involvement/Professional Opportunities

Campus Ministries

As a Christ-centered, academically focused university, we are preparing students to fulfill the Great Commission through a Biblical Worldview. The University of Mobile has many opportunities for students to serve others locally, nationally, and globally. Students are encouraged to participate in Project Serve, Urban Plunge, The Bridge, Youth Hostel Missions, and Focus Fridays. The University of Mobile sponsors more than 200 events per year for resident and commuter students. Weekly opportunities may be viewed on the University of Mobile website (Quick link, “Student Life.”)

Focus Fridays

The University of Mobile is intentional about creating academic and student life experiences that build community in a way that no other college does, through Focus Fridays. The University of Mobile’s unique approach to learning means the student attends classes Monday through Thursday, immersing themselves in academic programs that stretch their minds. On Fridays, the student focuses on student life experiences.

Focus Fridays may include internships, field experiences, and meetings for academic clubs and honor societies. Students may also participate in volunteer opportunities such as building a Habitat for Humanity home. Students may elect to pursue their interests and have new personal experiences such as kayaking on Mobile Bay. Focus Fridays give students the time they need in college to explore their professional calling, volunteer and impact a community, grow spiritually and deepen their faith, develop friendships, and to share experiences.

It may be necessary on a case-by-case basis for nursing students to attend clinical and/or class on some Fridays.

Professional Organizations

Students are encouraged to participate in UM organizations, including honor societies, on campus.

Pre-Professional Organizations

Alabama Association of Nursing Students

The purpose of this organization “is to foster nursing education, facilitate unity among our future colleagues, and to optimize the nursing student’s exposure to the numerous specialties and pathways in the ever-changing field of nursing” (http://www.alabamanursingstudents.org)

National Student Nurses Association

Participation in this organization is “dedicated to fostering the professional development of nursing students. This mission is accomplished by preparing students for initial licensure as registered nurses, conveying the standards and ethics of the nursing profession, advocating for high quality, evidence-based, affordable and accessible health care, and developing nursing students who are prepared to lead the profession in the future” (http://www.nsna.org)

School of Nursing Committees

The nursing faculty believes student involvement is important to the work of the School. Students are encouraged to participate in the governance of the school by serving as members of certain University of Mobile School of Nursing standing committees. An undergraduate student representative from the Associate Degree in Nursing program (ADN), Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (ABSN), the Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (TBSN), and the RN-BSN Program will be asked to serve as active participants on the undergraduate Faculty Committee.

The role of the student representative on the undergraduate Faculty Committee is an important one. In essence, the student representative provides a formal liaison to facilitate communication between the student cohort and the undergraduate nursing faculty. As issues are presented in the meetings, students should feel comfortable to contribute their own ideas and points of view and/or reflect those of the student’s classmates.

Standing committees are established within the School of Nursing to accomplish the purposes and objectives of the school. The committees include:

• Faculty Organization Committee
  The purpose is to conduct the business of the School of Nursing and coordinate activities of all programs.
• Undergraduate Faculty Committee
  The purpose is to conduct the business of the Undergraduate Degree Programs (ADN, ABSN, TBSN, and RN-BSN) and make recommendations to the Faculty Organization Committee.

School of Nursing Honor Society

The University of Mobile, School of Nursing Honor Society was officially established in 2019. It is a program that is dedicated to recognizing and honoring those who have maintained academic excellence while in the school of nursing, and who are committed to maintaining superior standards through practice and leadership in the profession of nursing.

Students in the associate, traditional and accelerated programs (independently) will be eligible for membership if they have achieved excellence according to the standards approved by the society.

The student must:

• Have completed all requirements for graduation as indicated in the University and School of Nursing handbook
• Have a GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
• Rank in the top 33% of their school of nursing graduating class (grades are calculated using standard school of nursing (NU) courses only)
• Meet the expectation of academic integrity

University of Mobile Ambassadors

The University of Mobile Ambassador program was introduced in 2017 and consists of a group of students who demonstrate excellent interpersonal communication skills, enthusiasm for the university, proven leadership abilities, positivity, sound judgment and reliability.

Ambassadors serve the University through intentional Biblical leadership according to Mark 10:43-45, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be a slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (https://www.umobile.edu)

University of Mobile Association of Nursing Students (UMANS)

The University of Mobile Association of Nursing Students (UMANS) is a pre-professional organization which includes membership in the local organization, and if desired, in the state (Alabama Association of Nursing Students) and national student nurses association (National Student Nurses Association). Each level of the organization strives to promote the development of professional attitudes and involvement through participation in activities that introduce the student to professional nursing. State and National conventions are held annually. Student attendance at conventions is encouraged. Absence from class and clinical obligations for these activities will be allowed as long as the student is able to meet the course objectives and attendance requirements.

The University of Mobile, Association of Nursing Students is a vibrant organization with intent to promote the nursing profession in the Mobile community. The students participate in several service projects each year.

Students who join UMANS will have the opportunity to purchase a class-designed t-shirt that may be worn during class (at the discretion of the course instructor) at designated times. This shirt may also be worn with jeans during certain out-of-class activities, such as senior luncheon. Students who do not join UMANS may not purchase a class shirt and will be required to wear the school of nursing uniform during these functions.

Section VII: Student Resources and Services

Bookstore

The campus bookstore is now fully online and is located at https://umobile.edu/textbooks/.

The onsite bookstore is now the U Store and is located in the J.L. Bedsole Library building on the first floor. University gear and snacks, along with nursing uniforms and supplies, may be purchased in the store. 

Campus Security

The University of Mobile maintains security guards on duty 24 hours per day. The security guard may be contacted at 251.510.4273.

Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice

The UM School of Nursing maintains a Nursing Skills Laboratory, a Health Assessment Laboratory, and Simulation Center for students located on the second floor of the Weaver Hall Building. These learning resources for the School of Nursing allow students to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for applying theory to nursing practice. This learning environment serves students in the School of Nursing by providing an excellent opportunity for self-directed independent learning and the practice of basic and advanced nursing skills. The nursing lab and simulation center are equipped with newborn, infant, child, adult and maternal human patient simulators (both mid and high-fidelity) as well as a wide selection of task trainers. The lab is equipped with cameras and recording equipment, which can be used for real-time, shared learning and in debriefing areas. Center hours vary and are posted on the School of Nursing website.

The Nursing Skills Laboratory contains seven (7) hospital beds with equipment storage, with full body mid-fidelity manikins and numerous task trainers (IV arms, ostomy training, wound care, injections, etc.)

The Simulation Center contains seven (7) simulation rooms and a control room. The simulation rooms hold (2) birthing simulators (referred to as Lucina), (1) pediatric simulator, and (5) adult medical-surgical simulators (referred to iStan, Athena or Apollo). Other learning tools located in the simulation rooms include: defibrillator, 12 lead EKG, crash cart, and IV pumps, etc. All simulation rooms have audio-video recording capabilities. The center also houses a fully functional simulated operating room that is utilized by the DNAP students.

Library

The J.L. Bedsole Library fully utilizes online and information technologies that facilitate providing information resources and services that support the University’s curricular and research activities. Residential and online students are able to access over 100 online databases that provide both full text and abstracts via the web. In addition to online databases, the UM Library provides many forms of printed and not-printed materials, media, equipment, and services necessary for individuals to achieve their education goals. The UM library maintains adequate hours to support the needs of their on-campus users. Hours of Operation: 7:45 AM-10:00 PM, Monday-Thursday; 7:45 AM-4:30 PM Friday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM Saturday, and closed Sunday. The library can be accessed through Canvas.

Parking and Traffic Regulations

Any student who operates a motorized vehicle of any type on campus must register the vehicle with the Office of Campus Operations. Students will receive a “hangtag”-parking parking permit. Vehicles are registered online at https://www.permitsales.net/UofMobile

Students are not permitted to park in spaces with “gray” or “red” designations. These parking spaces are reserved for administrators, faculty, and staff.

The University assumes no responsibility or liability for any vehicle on campus, whether or not school is in session. In the event of damage to or theft of a vehicle on the campus, if the person who caused the damage or committed the theft cannot be determine, the owner/operator of the vehicle and/or his insurance company shall be responsible for any damages or loss.

Postal Services

A contract station of the United States Post Office is located on the first floor of the J.L. Bedsole Building and offers all standard services. The post office is open to students from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM Monday through Friday.

Registrar’s Office

The Registrar’s Office is located in the Rosemary Adams Building on the first floor. The office is responsible for maintaining official student records and verifying that students are eligible to sit for licensure examinations. Official copies of transcripts are available from this office.

Student Health Services

It is our aim at the University of Mobile to promote and help maintain the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of our students, faculty, and staff. Services provided by the University include:

• Nursing assessment and appropriate care.
• Health education.
• Referral to University Counseling Services when deemed beneficial for the student.
• Referral to appropriate health care facilities when more intensive care is warranted.

The campus nurse is Joy Jacobs. She can be reached at 251.442.2662 during school hours.

Health services are open when classes are in session and closed during all University Holidays. The campus nurse is not on call and only available during school hours.

Student Success Center

The Student Success Center provides academic consulting services to students enrolled at the University of Mobile. Academic consultants meet individually with students and provide assistance with developing the skills and behaviors that are essential to academic success and professional development. Services are available at no charge to the learner and may address a wide range of issues. These include transition to professional school, time management, study skills, stress management, testing strategies, interpersonal and communication skills, clarifying career goals, and coping strategies.

Professional counseling is also available to UM students through the Student Success Center located in the Rosemary Adams Building. More specific contact information is located on the UM webpage under the quick link, “Student Life.”

Section VIII: Student Responsibilities

Ethical Practice

The University of Mobile graduate nursing program supports the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics for Professional Nurses. All students must abide by the ANA Code of Ethics during their clinical performance. The philosophical basis for safe practice by faculty and students is described in the ANA Code of Ethics (2016).

Liability Insurance

All undergraduate students enrolled in clinical and practicum courses participate in the University of Mobile Nursing Student Liability Insurance Program. There are no additional fees related to liability coverage.

Licensure

The School of Nursing requires that RN-BSN students demonstrate a level of competence commensurate with the educational and experiential prerequisites for admission and progression in the program. RN-BSN students are required to maintain licensure as a Registered Nurse in their state of residence to practice nursing as a registered nurse throughout their educational program at the University of Mobile. In addition, students must hold licensure as a registered nurse in any state where the practice/practicum requirements are completed. The student is required to provide verification of licensure from the appropriate state board. The University of Mobile’s residential campus is located in the state of Alabama; therefore, our students and faculty must abide by the regulations of the Alabama Board of Nursing. Nursing courses with a clinical component may not be taken by any individual who has been denied licensure by the Alabama Board of Nursing; or whose license is currently suspended, surrendered or revoked in any United States jurisdiction; or whose license is currently suspended, surrendered, or revoked in another country due to any disciplinary action.

Safe Clinical Practice

The faculty and staff of the School of Nursing support the University of Mobile Preamble, Mission Statement, Vision Statement, Biblical Worldview, and Statement of Christian Affirmation. The faculty and administration have the expectation that learning, faith and leadership will be reflected in the interactions and actions of all individuals involved with the activities of the School of Nursing. The intent of the University is reflected in the phrase, “Changing Lives to Change the World” and is evident in the core values of being Christ-centered, Academically-focused, Student-devoted, and Distinctively-driven. It is expected in clinical practice that these attributes be evident.

Safety in nursing practice and research is required of all professional nurses and all students of professional nursing. In order to ensure safe practices students are expected to:

• Assume responsibility for own actions.
• Demonstrate self-discipline in meeting commitments and obligations, submitting written assignments on time, keeping appointments, etc.
• Preparing in advance for clinical or practicum experiences.
• Function within the guidelines and policies of the institution, in which they are practicing, and within their Scope of Practice and according to all legal parameters.
• Communicate appropriately, accurately, truthfully.
• Recognize own limitations and the need for appropriate supervision.
• Provide competent care for all individuals regardless of age, sex, race, or diagnosis.
• Obtain preceptor and/or faculty member’s signature on all patient documentation.
• RN-BSN students must notify the Undergraduate Program Chair and/or Dean immediately of any change in their licensure status, i.e. probation, suspension, or revocation.

The following situations are considered unsafe and are absolute grounds for course failure and may result in dismissal from the program:

• Preceptor or healthcare agency/institution refusal to continue working with the student due to clinical safety issues.
• Student is under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs, or medications that impair judgment in the clinical and/or classroom setting.
• Positive drug test for non-prescribed or illegal drugs; or refusal of drug testing.
• Abuse or inappropriate behavior, including but not limited to intimidation, threats or acts of violence to patients, staff, faculty, or other students.
• Fraudulent or dishonest behavior.
• Behavior or judgment that compromises the safety of a patient.
• Other unsafe clinical practice as deemed by faculty.
• Violation of rules of professional conduct established by accrediting or licensing bodies.
• Any act or behavior, which violates the objectives and/or policies of the School of Nursing, Clinical Agency, the Alabama Board of Nursing Nurse Practice Act, or the Board of Nursing Nurse Practice Act in the state where the student maintains licensure.
• Neglecting to give appropriate and professional nursing care.
• Failing to use universal precautions.
• Performing a procedure outside the scope of nursing practice.
• Inability to correctly calculate math/medication problems.
• Stealing drugs, supplies, or belongings from the clinical agency and/or patient.
• Removing copies of patient care documents from healthcare agencies.
• Failing to report an error in assessment, treatment, or medication or failure to report an unusual occurrence or adverse reaction.
• Providing patient care in a harmful manner or exhibiting careless or negligent behavior in the process of providing patient care.
• Performance and/or attitude not in compliance with stated student expectations as outlined in lecture and/or the course syllabi.

Student Conduct

As practicing professionals, students are responsible participants in their educational experiences at the University of Mobile. Students are expected to display professionalism, respect, kindness in all aspects of their work and study. This includes, but is not limited to, email conversations, discussion board posts, phone calls and face-to-face encounters with fellow students, faculty, staff, preceptors, clinical agencies, and patients. Incidences of student incivility will be reported to the Undergraduate Program Chair and the Undergraduat Faculty Committee for appropriate action. Students will be given a written warning and may face dismissal if episodes of incivility or inappropriate behavior continue.

Section IX: Appendices

Appendix A - Essential Core Performance Standards