Doctor of Nursing Practice Student Handbook 2018- 2019 - Gardner-Webb ...
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Doctor
of
Nursing
Practice
Student
Handbook
2018-‐2019
About this handbook:
This Student Handbook is designed to provide students seeking a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
degree with helpful information and resources, and as such is designed for currently enrolled DNP
students. In addition to the contents of this handbook, students should also be familiar with the
content and policies in the Gardner-Webb University Academic Catalog. Any program revisions
made within the current academic year will be communicated to students through University email
and/or posted in courses.
2Table of Contents
1. Gardner-Webb University School of Nursing .................................................................................................. 6
1.1 History ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
1.2 Hunt School of Nursing Mission Statement ............................................................................................... 6
1.3 Philosophy .................................................................................................................................................. 6
1.4 Overall Goals .............................................................................................................................................. 7
1.5 Programs ..................................................................................................................................................... 7
1.6 Program Accreditation................................................................................................................................ 7
1.7 Professional Standards ............................................................................................................................... 8
2. Hunt School of Nursing Contact Information .................................................................................................. 9
3. Academic Program ......................................................................................................................................... 12
3.1 Doctor of Nursing Program ...................................................................................................................... 12
3.2 DNP Program Outcomes .......................................................................................................................... 12
3.3 DNP Student Learning Outcomes ............................................................................................................ 12
3.4 DNP Curriculum ....................................................................................................................................... 13
3.5 DNP Course Sequence Options ................................................................................................................ 13
4. DNP Academic Procedures ............................................................................................................................ 15
4.1 Academic Advisement.............................................................................................................................. 15
4.2 Auditing Nursing Courses ........................................................................................................................ 15
4.3 Conflict Resolution ................................................................................................................................... 15
4.4 Curriculum Associated Expectations of Students .................................................................................... 15
4.5 Dismissal from the Program ..................................................................................................................... 15
4.6 Electronic Device Usage during Clinical and Practicum Rotations ......................................................... 16
4.7 Electronic Mail ......................................................................................................................................... 16
4.8 Graduation Requirements and Application Procedure ............................................................................. 17
4.9 Information Technology Competencies ................................................................................................... 17
4.10 Malpractice Insurance ............................................................................................................................ 17
4.11 Name and Address Changes ................................................................................................................... 17
4.12 Non-Discrimination ................................................................................................................................ 18
4.13 Nursing Practice in the Practicum Setting .............................................................................................. 18
4.13.1 Safe Practice ..................................................................................................................................... 18
4.13.2 Unsafe Practice ................................................................................................................................. 18
4.13.3 Consequences of Unsafe Practice..................................................................................................... 18
4.14 Patient Confidentiality and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) ........... 19
4.15 Recognition and HSON Awards ............................................................................................................ 19
4.16 Schedule Changes ................................................................................................................................... 19
4.17 Withdrawal from Courses....................................................................................................................... 19
5. DNP Academic Policies ................................................................................................................................. 20
5.1 Appeals Policy .......................................................................................................................................... 20
5.2 Attendance Policy ..................................................................................................................................... 20
5.3 Behavior Policy for the Hunt School of Nursing ..................................................................................... 20
5.3.1 Expectations of Classroom Behavior ................................................................................................. 20
5.3.2 Practice Experience Behavior............................................................................................................. 21
5.3.3 Culture of Civility .............................................................................................................................. 21
5.4 Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening Policy ........................................................................ 22
5.4.1 Criminal Background Check Policy ................................................................................................... 22
5.4.2 Urine Drug Screen Policy ................................................................................................................... 23
5.5 Exposure Policy ........................................................................................................................................ 23
5.6 Grading and Progression Policy ............................................................................................................... 24
5.7 Honesty Policy ......................................................................................................................................... 24
35.8 Interruption in Thesis or Project Continuous Enrollment ........................................................................ 24
5.9 Practice Hours for the DNP ...................................................................................................................... 24
5.10 Protection against Blood-borne Communicable Diseases ...................................................................... 25
5.11 Social Media/Electronic Communication............................................................................................... 25
5.12 Technical Standards Policy .................................................................................................................... 26
6. Student Resources: Hunt School of Nursing .................................................................................................. 28
6.1 Student Organizations .............................................................................................................................. 28
6.1.1 Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing – Phi Upsilon .......................................... 28
7. Student Resources: Gardner-Webb University .............................................................................................. 29
7.1 Graduate Assistantships ........................................................................................................................... 29
7.2 Textbook Procurement ............................................................................................................................. 29
7.3 Support Services ....................................................................................................................................... 29
4Appendices ......................................................................................................................................................... 30
Appendix A: Patient Information Confidentiality Commitment for Nursing Students ................................ 30
Appendix B: Confidentiality and Consent Form ............................................................................................ 32
Appendix C: Request for Interruption in Thesis or Project Continuous Enrollment Form............................ 33
You need to read the Patient Information Confidentiality Commitment for Nursing Students (Appendix
A) statement then print out, sign, date, and submit the Confidentiality and Consent Form (Appendix B)
to the Hunt School of Nursing at aheavner@gardner-webb.edu (or fax to 704-406-3919 ATTN: Amy
Heavner) within the first week of classes.
5Gardner-Webb University Hunt School of Nursing
The Hunt School of Nursing (HSON) is an integral part of Gardner-Webb University (GWU). The
HSON mission, philosophy and outcomes are congruent with and support the value statements of
GWU. The HSON and GWU are committed to providing superior education grounded in the Liberal
Arts to prepare graduates to make significant contributions for God and Humanity. GWU respects
the value and individuality of every student and provides an environment that promotes a strong
work ethic, Christian heritage and values, teamwork and personal accountability.
1.1 History
Nursing Education at GWU began in 1965 with the establishment of the Associate Degree Nursing
program under the direction of Mrs. Grace C. Lee (1913-2000), who became the first program
director. Dr. Shirley Toney and Mrs. Glennie Beam were the first faculty members. In 1982, the RN
to BSN Completion program was established. The program was named the Davis Nursing Program
in 1995 after becoming affiliated with the Davis Hospital Foundation. The GWU Nursing
Department became the School of Nursing in 1995 with Dr. Shirley Toney serving as the first Dean.
A Master’s in Nursing in Nursing Education and Nursing Administration was established in 2000
with the addition of the Family Nurse Practitioner program in 2013. In 2010, the Traditional
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs were added.
In 2014, Dr. Jack and Mrs. Ruby Hunt, noted public servants and community supporters, established
the Hunt School of Nursing. In 2017, the North Carolina Board of Nursing approved for the HSON
to establish an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program.
1.2 Hunt School of Nursing Mission Statement
The mission of the Hunt School of Nursing is to enhance the health status of the global community
by preparing individuals to practice holistic and professional nursing through the provision of
student-centered programs of study for a diverse student population that promotes academic
excellence within a Christian, private, liberal arts setting utilizing teamwork and community engagement.
1.3 Philosophy
Nursing education reflects a scientific and liberal arts foundation, encompassed within a faith-based
environmental setting. Nursing education is an integrated process through which students attain
knowledge, understanding, and competencies necessary to practice nursing. Education at all levels
occurs in an environment that inspires a spirit of inquiry, and is guided toward preparing students to
care about and for individuals through the lifespan, to enhance the status of the global community,
and to make significant contributions for God and humanity.
Nursing practice reflects a spirit of inquiry that utilizes the knowledge and science emerging from
research to translate scholarship into practice. Nursing practice, and quality nursing care should be
person-centered, afforded to individuals, families, communities and populations across the lifespan.
Working collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team, the nurse continually evaluates the quality
of care, serves as a leader in healthcare and in the community, and persistently strives for personal
and professional growth.
The discipline of nursing is a domain of inquiry representing a shared belief system among members
as a reason for being. Faculty at the Hunt School of Nursing believe that person, health, nurse, and
environment are essential concepts within the nursing domain. The person, made in the image of
God, is unique and whole in the moment, deserving of love and respect; person is defined as an
individual, family, or population seeking or entitled to optimal health. Health is an ever-changing
6state of biological, psychological, social and spiritual well-being; health is not the absence of
disease. The environment for health includes the internal environment of feelings and meanings, as
well as the external physical and sociopolitical climate that influences how care is accessed and
experienced. The nurse, as an independent provider of nursing care and part of the healing
environment, uses science and the caring arts to nurture and promote human wholeness.
1.4 Overall Goals
1. Establish a liberal arts educational environment based on Christian values fostering academic
excellence, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
2. Provide student-centered programs of study based on current national competencies of nursing
practice to meet the global healthcare needs of individuals, groups and communities in which
holistic nursing practice, Christian caring, critical thinking, and professionalism are modeled.
3. Engage in partnerships with community health care facilities in the provision of service learning
opportunities for students that include patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and
interdisciplinary collaboration.
4. Graduate a diverse population of students who are prepared to practice patient-centered nursing
care that is culturally competent, holistic and professional within the context of a global
environment in a manner that influences nursing and healthcare policy and practice.
1.5 Programs
Today, the HSON consists of four programs of study: The Associate of Science in Nursing program
(ASN), the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, and Davis
Nursing RN to BSN Completion), the Master of Science in Nursing program (MSN), and the Doctor
of Nursing Practice program (DNP).
The ASN, Traditional BSN, and Accelerated BSN programs prepare students to take the National
Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) as each program is fully approved by
the North Carolina Board of Nursing. The ASN program can be completed in two years, the
Accelerated BSN program can be completed in four semesters, and the Traditional BSN program
can be completed in four years on the main campus in Boiling Springs. The RN to BSN program
can be completed in one to two years through distance learning delivery. The MSN program
prepares graduate nurses in the specialty areas of Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and
Family Nurse Practitioner. Post-Master’s certificate options in Nursing Administration, Nursing
Education, and Family Nurse Practitioner are also available for the MSN prepared registered
nurse. The Post Master’s DNP program prepares graduates for leadership roles in a variety of health
practice settings including education, administration, and direct care advanced nursing practice and
can be completed in two years through an executive format.
1.6 Program Accreditation
All programs within the HSON are nationally accredited. Accreditation has been maintained by the
nursing programs at GWU beginning with the provisional accreditation of the ASN program in 1968
and full accreditation in 1970. Since that time, the ASN program has maintained continuous
accreditation. The RN to BSN program received initial accreditation in 1985 and has since
maintained continuous accreditation. The MSN program received initial accreditation in 2002 with
continued accreditation since that time. Initial accreditation was obtained for the Traditional BSN
program in 2011. Initial accreditation was obtained for the DNP program in 2012.
7Accreditation is maintained through the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
(ACEN) located at 3343 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 850, Atlanta, GA, 30326, phone: 404-975-5000;
additional information may be found on the ACEN website: www.acenursing.org
1.7 Professional Standards
The curricular content for the programs within the HSON are guided by the following professional
standards:
1. North Carolina Administrative Code Title 21.
2. South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 40-Professions and Occupations, Chapter 33 Nurses,
Article 1 Nurse Practice Act.
3. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Baccalaureate
Education for Professional Nursing Practice.
4. The AACN Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing.
5. The AACN Essentials of Master’s Education for Advanced Practice Nursing.
6. The AACN Essentials for Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice.
7. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) Core Competencies for Health Professionals from
Health Professions Education: A Bridge to Quality.
8. The Quality and Safety Education for Nursing (QSEN) Quality and Safety in Nursing: A
Competency Approach to Improving Outcomes.
9. The National League for Nursing (NLN) Outcomes and Competencies for Graduates of
Practical/Vocational, Diploma, Associate Degree, Baccalaureate, Master’s, Practice
Doctorate, and Research Doctorate Programs in Nursing.
10. The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties Nurse Practitioner Core
Competencies.
8Hunt School of Nursing Contact Information
Hunt School of Nursing College of Health Sciences
Gardner-Webb University 315 West College Avenue
110 South Main Street Shelby, NC 28152
Campus Box 7309
Boiling Springs, NC 28017
Phone: 704-406-3887
Fax: 704-406-3919
Dean and Chairs
Nicole Waters, DNP, RN Tracy Arnold, DNP, RN
Dean, Hunt School of Nursing Associate Dean
Assistant Professor Associate Professor
CoHS 108 CoHS 110
704-406-2302 704-406-4359
nwaters@gardner-webb.edu tarnold@gardner-webb.edu
Abby Garlock, DNP, RN, LCCE Anna Hamrick, DNP, FNP-C, ACHPN
Chair, Pre-Licensure Programs Chair, Nurse Practitioner Programs
Assistant Professor Assistant Professor
CoHS 122 CoHS 120
704-406-2306 704-406-2460
agarlock@gardner-webb.edu ashamrick@gardner-webb.edu
Candice Rome, DNP, RN
Chair, Digital Learning Programs
Associate Professor
CoHS 111
704-406-4365
crome@gardner-webb.edu
Coordinators
Gayle Casterline, PhD, RN, AHN-BC Sharon Creed-Hall, DPN, RN
DNP Program Coordinator RN-BSN Program Coordinator
Associate Professor Assistant Professor
CoHS 115 CoHS 125
704-406-2418 704-406-2299
gcasterline@gardner-webb.edu shall@gardner-webb.edu
9Jessica Ivey, MSN, RNC-OB Melissa McNeilly, MSN, RN
ASN Licensure and Program Coordinator BSN Licensure and Program Coordinator
Instructor Instructor
CoHS 128 CoHS 112
704-406-2573 704-406-2462
jivey1@gardner-webb.edu mmcneilly1@gardner-webb.edu
Cindy Miller, PhD, RN
MSN Program Coordinator
Professor
CoHS 114
704-406-4364
mlmiller@gardner-webb.edu
Faculty
Nicole Beaver, MSN, RN Brittany Graham, MSN, RN
Instructor Instructor
CoHS 123 CoHS 128
704-406-2632 704-406-2518
nbeaver@gardner-webb.edu bgraham1@gardner-webb.edu
Tara Hayes, MSN, RN CNE Ashley Hull, BSN, RN
Instructor Lab Coordinator
CoHS 129 CoHS 118
704-406-3886 704-406-2605
trhayes@gardner-webb.edu ahull2@gardner-webb.edu
Ashley Isaac-Dockery, DNP, ANP Lori Jolley, MSN, RN
Assistant Professor Instructor
CoHS 121 CoHS 132
704-406-2459 704-406-3255
aisaacdockery@gardner-webb.edu ljolley@gardner-webb.edu
Tina Lewis, DNP, FNP-C, ACHPN, CEN Jill Parker, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Assistant Professor Assistant Professor
CoHS 133 CoHS 119
704-406-2633 704-406-4384
tlewis@gardner-webb.edu jparker11@gardner-webb.edu
10Yvonne Smith, DNP, RN, NCSN Sarah Tate, MSN, RN
Assistant Professor Clinical Coordinator
CoHS 127 CoHS 124
704-406-2517 704-406-2301
ysmith@gardner-webb.edu swtate@gardner-webb.edu
Kathy Williams, DNP, RN Linda Wines, MSN, RN, CNE
Assistant Professor Assistant Professor
CoHS 126 CoHS 116
704-406-2300 704-406-4361
kwilliams1@gardner-webb.edu lwines@gardner-webb.edu
Staff
Marie Davis, BSBA, BSHS Amy Heavner, AS
Coordinator of Student Records Graduate Studies Secretary
CoHS 107B CoHS 176
704-406-4360 704-406-2456
mdavis26@gardner-webb.edu aheavner@gardner-webb.edu
Susan Jenkins, BSBA Lugene Moore
Clinical Site Specialist Administrative Assistant
CoHS 130 CoHS 107A
704-406-2551 704-406-3887
sjenkin2@gardner-webb.edu jlmoore@gardner-webb.edu
11Academic Program
3.1 Doctor of Nursing Practice Program
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program prepares nurses to take leadership roles in making
significant contributions to improve healthcare outcomes. The faculty believe that scholarly inquiry and
critical analysis are essential tools for evaluating evidence and applying research to improve the quality
of healthcare outcomes.
3.2 DNP Program Outcomes
The DNP program seeks to meet the educational needs of eligible students holding valid license to
practice as a registered nurse who desire to pursue doctoral nursing education at a small, private, liberal
arts, Christian university.
The DNP program measures the following outcomes:
1. Graduate no less than 90% of students entering the program within 1.5 times the length of
the program.
2. Ninety percent of graduates will:
a. Express satisfaction with the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program.
b. Be involved in role-related Professional Practice one year following graduation.
c. Demonstrate satisfactory nursing practice to their employers.
3. Maintain continuing accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in
Nursing (ACEN).
3.3 DNP Student Learning Outcomes
Student Learning outcomes for the DNP Program are derived from the American Association of
Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice (2006).
Upon completion of the DNP program, the graduate will be prepared to:
Essential I: Scientific Underpinnings for Practice
Essential III: Clinical Scholarship and Analytical Methods for Evidence-Based
Practice
1. Synthesize scientific and theoretical knowledge from nursing and other
disciplines to implement best practice approaches reflective of the highest level
of nursing.
Essential II: Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Improvement and
Systems Thinking
Essential IV: Information Systems/Technology and Patient Care Technology for the
Improvement and Transformation of Health Care
2. Collaborate with institutional, local, state, federal, and/or international leaders to
make data-driven decisions to improve health care outcomes.
Essential V: Health Care Policy for Advocacy in Health Care
Essential VI: Interprofessional Collaboration for Improving Patient and Population
Health Outcomes
3. Lead intra-and inter-professional teams to advocate for and implement policies
which improve individual and population health.
Essential VII: Clinical Prevention and Population Health for Improving the Nation’s
12Health
4. Engage in leadership to integrate evidence-based clinical prevention and health
services for individuals and populations.
Essential VIII: Advanced Nursing Practice
5. Develop and sustain therapeutic and programmatic interventions and partnerships
with patients, populations, and professionals, appropriate to advanced nursing
specialization.
3.4 DNP Curriculum
1. NURS 700 Theoretical and Conceptual Foundation for Advanced Nursing Practice (3 SH)
2. NURS 702 Nursing Inquiry for Evidence-Based Practice (3 SH)
3. NURS 703 Advanced Statistics: Multivariate Analysis (3 SH)
4. NURS 704 Healthcare Policy and Economics (3 SH)
5. NURS 705 Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Informatics (3 SH)
6. NURS 707 Scholarly Teaching and Learning for Nurse Leaders (3 SH)
7. NURS 708 Epidemiology and Disease Control (3 SH)
8. NURS 715 Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice (3 SH)
DNP Project
9. NURS 711 DNP Project I and II (6 SH)
10. NURS 712 DNP Project III and IV (6 SH)
3.5 DNP Course Sequence Options
Full-Time Enrollment
SEMESTER SUMMER ENTRY FALL ENTRY
NURS 700
SUMMER
NURS 702
NURS 703 NURS 700
FALL
NURS 704 NURS 702
NURS 705 NURS 703
SPRING
NURS 711 NURS 704
NURS 708 NURS 705
SUMMER
NURS 711 NURS 711
NURS 707 NURS 708
FALL
NURS 712 NURS 711
NURS 715 NURS 707
SPRING
NURS 712 NURS 712
NURS 715
FALL
NURS 712
13Part-Time Enrollment
FALL
SEMESTER SUMMER ENTRY
ENTRY
SUMMER NURS 700
FALL NURS 704 NURS 700
SPRING NURS 705 NURS 704
SUMMER NURS 702 NURS 705
FALL NURS 703 NURS 702
SPRING NURS 715 NURS 703
SUMMER NURS 708 NURS 715
FALL NURS 707 NURS 708
SPRING NURS 711 NURS 707
SUMMER NURS 711 NURS 711
FALL NURS 712 NURS 711
SPRING NURS 712 NURS 712
SUMMER NURS 712
14DNP Academic Procedures
4.1 Academic Advisement
Students are registered for their first semester of courses upon admission. Students are expected to
review the required course of study for their concentration at the time of enrollment.
The following semester students are responsible for communicating with their assigned Academic
Advisor who will advise them on the courses being offered the next semester, the courses they need,
and their personal identification number (PIN). Students are responsible for registering for their classes
utilizing their PIN through WebbConnect. Advising takes place once each semester prior to registration
beginning. Students are advised in the Fall for Spring registration and in the Spring for Summer and
Fall. Faculty post advising hours and it is in the student’s best interest to communicate with their
advisor especially during this pre-registration period. The advisor can then review the student record
and anticipate possible areas of concern or discussion based on the student’s work and grade point
average. The final responsibility for meeting degree requirements rests with the student. Students are
expected to get a degree evaluation online through WebbConnect to assess their ongoing progress
toward degree completion.
4.2 Auditing Nursing Courses
Nursing courses may be audited under special circumstances by students enrolled in the DNP program.
Individuals who audit should have the approval of the course instructor and the Chair. Auditing an
entire course requires a fee per course to be paid to GWU. Further information regarding fees may be
obtained from the Business Office. Any person who requests to audit a course must have already taken
the course or its equivalent and received a satisfactory grade. The number of auditing students and
activities available may be limited by enrollment in the program or other pertinent factors. For more
information about auditing courses students should refer to the Academic Catalog. The auditing student
should complete all course requirements, with the exception of tests and examinations. Practicum,
Thesis, and Project courses cannot be audited.
4.3 Conflict Resolution
If a student encounters conflicts or concerns in a nursing class or practice area., the student should first
approach the faculty member involved in the class or practice experience. If an acceptable resolution is
not achieved, the student should follow the hierarchical listing below:
(1) Course Professor
(2) Chair of Digital Learning Programs
(3) Associate Dean, Hunt School of Nursing
(4) Dean, Hunt School of Nursing
(5) Current Chair, Graduate Council
4.4 Curriculum Associated Expectations of Students
All written work for courses must be submitted following the guidelines in the latest edition of the
Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. Nursing students, because of their
participation in the lives of others, are expected to follow the American Nurses Association (ANA)
Code of Ethics. as well as the Gardner-Webb University Honor Code. Students are expected to consult
with a faculty member when encountering ethical questions or concerns in practice.
4.5 Dismissal from the Program
The HSON Administration reserves the right to dismiss from the program any student who fails to meet
15academic and/or non-academic behavioral, attitudinal, ethical, and/or practice standards. Further,
students who present physical or emotional problems which conflict with safety essential to nursing
practice and do not respond to appropriate treatment or counseling within a reasonable period of time
will be dismissed from the program. Students will be dismissed if they demonstrate behavior that is a
threat to public health and safety. Unsatisfactory behavior may consist of a pattern of behavior or
performance or a single incident, depending on the incident. Dismissal may occur at any point in any
course in the program, which includes immediate dismissal if indicated.
4.6 Electronic Device Usage in Classroom and Practicum Experiences
The following guidelines apply:
1. Professional behavior and proper netiquette should be observed at all times when using
electronic devices, such as cellphones, iPads, iPods, and laptops.
2. Electronic devices may be used only when authorized by faculty for educational activities, not
for personal use.
3. No personal phone conversations or texting is allowed at any time during classroom and
practicum experiences. Electronic devices should be placed in “airplane mode”. A written
warning will be given for the first violation of using an electronic device for socializing
during practicum hours. A practicum failure will be given for the second violation.
4. Students are expected to have their electronic device turned off if the agency policy requires,
and go to an area designated for electronic device usage when accessing electronic information.
5. Be respectful to the patient at all times and ensure your entire attention is focused on the patient.
If you must access information on an electronic device while providing patient care, be sure to
apologize for the interruption in care and explain how this will benefit their care.
6. The use of an electronic device allows you to retrieve information quickly and unobtrusively.
You must protect the confidentiality of patient information at all times in accordance with
HIPAA.
7. Faculty, preceptors, or agency staff may ask to see what programs you are accessing on your
electronic device at any time.
8. Keep careful physical control of the electronic device at all times. GWU and the HSON are not
responsible for any lost or stolen electronic devices a student may bring to class or practicum
experiences.
9. Bring your electronic device to class and practicum, as required. Ensure it is charged.
10. Just as other medical equipment may act as a reservoir for microorganisms and contribute to the
transfer of pathogens so may electronic devices. Be sure to disinfect and decontaminate them as
needed.
11. Students who violate patient privacy with an electronic device will be subject to HIPAA
infractions by the practicum agency and may face dismissal from the nursing program.
4.7 Electronic Mail
Most communication between faculty members and students occurs via email. Faculty will contact
students at their assigned GWU email address and through the Blackboard Course Messaging System.
Students should check their GWU email and Blackboard Course Messaging System several times each
week. Do not share your passwords with others.
164.8 Graduation Requirements and Application Procedure
All students must apply online for graduation the semester prior to completing degree requirements.
Students are responsible for applying online for graduation through WebbConnect. A graduation fee
will be applied to the student’s account upon applying for graduation. Students who fail to meet
graduation requirements in the semester they apply for graduation are required to reapply for graduation
the next semester they plan to graduate.
4.9 Information Technology Competencies
Competency Placement Student Outcome
Use basic email Prerequisite Students will utilize email in
• Send-receive email communication with peers,
• Send attachments faculty, and advisors.
Word processing Prerequisite Students will utilize a word
processing program to
complete written assignments.
Internet Prerequisite Students will utilize an internet
browser to access and retrieve
information.
Advanced Internet
Blackboard Distance Learning Online courses Students will utilize
System Blackboard Blackboard to participate in
orientation and discussion groups, online
Student user testing, email and various
guide course assignments.
Web Conferencing (Zoom) Graduate Students may utilize online
• Web Camera Students web conferencing platform
(Zoom) for a variety of live
synchronous online
interactions.
Electronic Presentations Prerequisite Students will utilize electronic
• Slides media (PowerPoint, etc.) to
• Speaker Notes support presentations if
• Audio recording capability applicable and appropriate to
• Video recording capability course content.
4.10 Malpractice Insurance
All students are charged for group malpractice insurance with each practicum course. The group policy
carried by the HSON provides student malpractice coverage that applies while in nursing practicum
experiences related to nursing courses. Graduates may contact the College of Health Sciences
Secretary if proof of insurance coverage is needed.
4.11 Name and Address Changes
Students need to keep both the University and the HSON informed about changes in their name,
17address, and telephone number. Changes should immediately be reported through WebbConnect,
Maintain Information. Students should also notify the College of Health Sciences Secretary.
4.12 Non-Discrimination
GWU admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. GWU nursing students will care
for assigned patients regardless of their race, religion, ethnic background, or pathophysiology.
4.13 Nursing Practice in the Practicum Setting
The faculty members of the Hunt SON have an academic, legal, and ethical responsibility to prepare
graduates who are competent, as well as safe to protect the public and health care community from
unsafe nursing practice. It is within that context that students can be disciplined or dismissed from the
Hunt SON for practice or behavior which threatens or has the potential to threaten the safety of a client,
family member, another student, faculty member, or health care provider.
4.13.1 Safe Practice
To ensure safe nursing practice is maintained and upheld, the student should adhere to the following at
all times:
1. Practice according to the current Nursing Practice Act in the state where the practicum is
completed.
2. Practice within the guidelines and outcomes of the Hunt SON.
3. Practice within the rules and regulations of affiliating health care agencies.
4. Practice within the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics.
5. Remain accountable for continuity in preparation, care of patients, and communication.
4.13.2 Unsafe Practice
Students who demonstrate behavior which conflicts with safe nursing practice will be dismissed from
the program. Incidents involving unsafe behavior will be considered by the instructor, Chair, Dean,
and, if necessary, by other faculty members. Actions will depend upon circumstances, level of student,
and actual or potential consequences of the incident.
Unsafe practice includes, but is not limited to, the following:
1. Failure to use the nursing process effectively, demonstrated by such behaviors as a lack of
knowledge of the client’s diagnoses, treatments, or medications; failure to follow safety
precautions for clients such as side rails, restraints, and position of the client; and acts of
omission including utilization of correct principles in the implementation of medication.
2. Failure to take nursing action when such action is essential to the health and safety of the
client.
3. Performing nursing activities that are detrimental to the health and safety of the client.
4. Attending any GWU Hunt SON learning experience, including clinical, while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
5. Failure to recognize the influence of one’s own attitude, values, beliefs, and behavior on the
care of clients.
6. Deliberately giving false or inaccurate information regarding nursing care.
7. Failure to assume responsibility for completing nursing care.
8. Performing interventions without adequate preparation or needed supervision.
9. Performing a breach of confidentiality and/or privacy.
4.13.3 Consequences of Unsafe Practice
The consequences of unsafe practice are determined by the nature of the behavior exhibited and the
18situation in which it occurs and include the following:
1. Dismissal from the practicum experience.
2. Failing grade for the course.
3. Dismissal from the program.
4. Legal action by clinical facility, patient, or other parties.
4.14 Patient Confidentiality and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
(HIPAA)
Consistent with ethical practice, it is imperative that nursing students maintain the highest level of
confidentiality regarding patients to whom they are assigned in accordance with HIPAA of 1996, Public
Law 104-191. Students should keep the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
regulations in mind when collecting data. The patient's right to confidentiality and privacy must be
maintained at all times. Students who violate patient privacy are subject to HIPAA infractions by the
practicum agency, possible legal action by other parties, and dismissal from the HSON. All students
must read the Patient Information Confidentiality Commitment for Nursing Students statement
(Appendix A), sign the Confidentiality and Consent Form (Appendix B) and submit it to the HSON.
4.15 Recognition and HSON Awards
An academic ceremony is held annually in May before graduation. At that time the HSON will
recognize the DNP student who has exhibited strong leadership qualities through:
1. Academic excellence;
2. Exceptional communication skills, professionalism, initiative and self-discipline in
managing his or her learning; and
3. Completion of an exemplary DNP project demonstrating potential for significantly
impacting nursing.
4.16 Schedule Changes
A calendar is provided for each nursing course the first day of class. It is the student's responsibility to
follow the schedule as planned. The date, time, and location of learning experiences are subject to
unavoidable changes due to inclement weather or other events at the professor’s discretion. If schedule
changes are necessary, the professor will notify students as soon as possible.
4.17 Withdrawal from Courses
Students should only withdraw from courses after consultation with their advisor and course professor.
Withdrawal from courses will impact program progression. Students who must withdraw from courses
should proceed through the official withdrawal process via WebbConnect, as stated in the GWU
Academic Catalog. Student are subject to procedures established by the University for schedule
modification deadlines, WP/WF deadlines, and grading deadlines. It is the student’s responsibility to
complete all requirements of the withdrawal process with the Registrar’s office. Otherwise, grades
of “F” will be assigned and the student will maintain financial responsibility.
19DNP Academic Policies
5.1 Appeals Policy
Students wishing to appeal a grade or the program completion time limit must adhere to the policy as
outlined in the GWU Academic Catalog. Students should first inform the course professor of their
intent to appeal.
Students should not contact the faculty member in regard to the appeal while the appeal is in process.
Students will be allowed to continue in the program during the appeal process. If a student’s appeal is
denied through the University appeals process, the student may be dropped from nursing course rolls.
If the student’s appeal is granted through the University appeals process, the student will continue
without a lapse in study.
5.2 Attendance Policy
In accordance with Gardner-Webb University’s academic attendance policy, a student must be present
for at least 75% of each scheduled course meetings in order to receive credit for the course. Students
should check each course syllabus for more specific course attendance requirements. It is the
prerogative of each professor to set a more stringent course attendance policy.
In face-to-face classes attendance will be computed according to the number of class hours and dates of
the class meetings. Students are required to be present for the intensive face-to-face sessions scheduled
at the beginning of each semester. In the case of extreme extenuating circumstances, a student may file
an appeal to be absent from a part of the session. A letter of appeal accompanied by supporting
evidence of the circumstances must be submitted to the Chair of Digital Learning Programs. Appeals
will be reviewed by the Chair and/or graduate faculty with decisions made on a case by case basis. If
the appeal is granted the course professor will inform the student of the procedure for making up any
missed work. If a student does not attend a scheduled intensive face-to-face session and has not been
granted permission through the appeal process, that student may be dismissed from the program.
Students are expected to be present and on time for all scheduled practice activities. Preceptors and/or
other involved individuals should be contacted about aby changes in schedule or absence prior to the
change.
In an online course attendance will be determined by activity in the class. An absence of activity during
any week (example Monday to Sunday) will count as an absence for the period of measuring
attendance. Activity includes mail correspondence, discussion board postings, submitted assignments,
and assessments. A lack of activity will cause the student to be reported as “not attending” and will
result in an administrative withdrawal and the assignment of a grade of @F.
Make-up work and any associated penalties are at the discretion of the professor and will be explained
in the course syllabus. The student is expected to initiate the process and contact the professor prior to
any missed course assignments. Make-up will depend upon the reason for missing the work, whether
the student followed protocol regarding contacting the professor, nature of the missed experience, and
availability of necessary resources.
5.3 Behavior Policy for the Hunt School of Nursing
5.3.1 Expectations of Classroom Behavior
Faculty and nursing students are expected to arrive to all classes on time and be fully prepared to
20achieve maximum benefit from class time. In preparation for each 1 hour of classroom interaction,
students should be prepared to invest hours of study, performing reading, writing, research, and
activities that may enable them to achieve course objectives successfully. Students are expected to
prepare for class discussion to achieve understanding of concepts and principles related to the course.
Teaching style encourages student participation and interactions that enhance disciplined thinking about
the subject.
Teacher-student interactions require responsibility on the part of the student and teacher to maintain a
relationship conducive to learning. The teacher provides a climate that communicates caring,
enthusiasm for the subject, and preserves student dignity. Students are encouraged to contribute to
classroom learning by asking questions, listening to discussion by peers, and participating in activities
that promote understanding of course content. Courtesy and kindness is an expectation of the learning
community. Distractions, such as using cell phones or other electronic devices, is prohibited during
class time, unless receiving prior professor approval. Students who allow phones to disrupt the class or
in any way interfere with an optimum learning experience may be asked to leave the classroom. If the
student is removed from the classroom twice, a learning contract will be instituted.
In the online learning environment, students are expected to observe professional and timely netiquette
when responding to queries from faculty and peers.
5.3.2 Practice Experience Behavior
Faculty and nursing students are expected to arrive on time to all practice experiences, fully prepared to
achieve maximum learning. Nursing students are expected to prepare for practice experiences through
reading, writing, research, and activities that will enable them to achieve practice objectives
successfully. Students who are unprepared for practice have the potential for unsafe patient care and
will be asked to leave the clinical site. Students required to leave an off campus experience will receive
an “unsatisfactory performance” for that day. Unsatisfactory practice performance will be addressed
according to program and course policies.
Use of cell phones or other electronic devices is prohibited during practice experiences, unless allowed
by professor or preceptor. Students who allow ringing cell phones during practice experiences will
receive an unsatisfactory grade.
5.3.3 Culture of Civility
The Hunt School of Nursing promotes a culture of caring, kindness, and civil discourse. Any form of
incivility is unacceptable in the Hunt School of Nursing. Incivility is defined as disruptive, ill-
mannered, or offensive behavior contrary to the well-being of the learning environment. This includes
any and all forms of disrespect or disregard for instruction, the instructor, or a fellow student.
The Hunt School of Nursing abides by the American Nurses Association (2015) Position Statement on
Incivility, Bullying, and Workplace Violence:
ANA’s Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements states that nurses are required
to “create an ethical environment and culture of civility and kindness, treating colleagues,
coworkers, employees, students, and others with dignity and respect” (ANA, 2015a, p. 4).
Similarly, nurses must be afforded the same level of respect and dignity as others. Thus, the
nursing profession will no longer tolerate violence of any kind from any source.
All RNs and employers in all settings, including practice, academia, and research, must
collaborate to create a culture of respect that is free of incivility, bullying, and workplace
violence. Evidence-based best practices must be implemented to prevent and mitigate
incivility, bullying, and workplace violence; to promote the health, safety, and wellness of
21RNs; and to ensure optimal outcomes across the health care continuum.
This position statement, although written specifically for RNs and employers, is also
relevant to other health care professionals and stakeholders who collaborate to create and
sustain a safe and healthy interprofessional work environment. Stakeholders who have a
relationship with the worksite also have a responsibility to address incivility, bullying, and
workplace violence.
5.4 Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening Policy
The GWU HSON is required to comply with the regulations of the North Carolina State Board of
Nursing (NCBON) and The Joint Commission (TJC) for student placement in healthcare facilities that
require drug screening and criminal background checks for all healthcare workers, volunteers, students,
and faculty. As a condition of participation in practicum educational experiences, each student will be
required to submit a satisfactory drug screen and criminal record history for all states of residence for
the past ten years. All students must read the Patient Information Confidentiality Commitment for
Nursing Students statement (Appendix A), sign the Confidentiality and Consent Form (Appendix B)
and submit it to the HSON. FNP students must also refer to the Nurse Practitioner Programs
requirements.
5.4.1 Criminal Background Check Policy
1. Students in the HSON must submit a satisfactory criminal background check prior to full
acceptance into their program of study.
2. All students will be required to sign a consent form that allows for disclosure of information
related to criminal background checks to the State Board of Nursing, and any agency under
contract with the Hunt School of Nursing. Students under the age of eighteen years of age
must have parent or legal guardian sign the consent for disclosure of information form.
3. Criminal background checks may be obtained through established HSON designated
agencies or State Law Enforcement Agencies and all costs incurred are the responsibility of
the student.
4. The initial review of the student’s criminal background checks will be by Program
Admissions personnel. Criminal background checks that indicate an offense will be
evaluated by a designated HSON faculty committee for recommendations. The committee
will review all reports and may interview the student. The faculty committee is composed of
three members appointed by the Dean of the HSON. The responsibility of the committee is
to evaluate information obtained from the student’s criminal background check and student
interview. The following criteria will be used to guide the evaluation of an unsatisfactory
criminal background check:
a. Severity and nature of offense as it applies to nursing
b. Date of offense
c. Comparison of offense to any established statutory law
d. Verification of offense through public records
e. Student responsibility and punishment associated with the offense.
5. The final decision of the committee will be communicated to the Program Chair, who will
notify the appropriate admissions office.
225.4.2 Urine Drug Screen Policy
1. Students in the Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs must
submit a satisfactory drug screen that meets the requirements of their site upon enrolling in
clinical or practicum courses.
2. The HSON reserves the right to request students to provide a current urine drug screen at
any time during their enrollment in a HSON Program at Gardner-Webb University.
3. All students will be required to sign a consent form that allows for disclosure of information
related to drug screen analysis to the State Board of Nursing, and any agency under contract
with Hunt School of Nursing. Students under the age of eighteen years of age must have
parent or legal guardian sign the consent for disclosure of information form.
4. Students may contract with a private or local physician or other healthcare facility to obtain
a chain of custody urine drug screen. Students are responsible for all costs associated with
drug screening.
5. The initial review of the student’s urine drug screen analysis will be by the Coordinator of
Student Records. Urine drug screen analysis with confirmed positive results for controlled
substances will be evaluated by a designated SON faculty committee for recommendations.
The committee will review all reports and may interview the student. The faculty committee
is composed of three members representing pre-licensure, post-licensure, and graduate
programs appointed by the Dean of the SON. The responsibility of the committee is to
evaluate information obtained from the students’ drug screen, academic performance and
student interview. The following criteria will be used to guide the evaluation of an
unsatisfactory urine drug screen:
a. Valid and verified physician prescription for substance.
b. Dosage and treatment regimen according to physician orders.
c. Use of illegal substance.
6. The final decision of the committee will be communicated to the student in writing with
sanctions including but not limited to: Dismissal from the clinical site, dismissal from the
nursing program, notification to the State Board of Nursing, referral for counseling and/or
other appropriate measures.
Following notification of the committee’s decision, the student can choose to accept the sanctions,
leave the program pending confirmation testing, or appeal through standard University procedure. All
costs incurred for confirmation drug screening procedures are the student’s responsibility.
5.5 Exposure Policy
When there is a parenteral (such as a needle stick or cut) or mucous membrane (such as a splash to the
eye or mouth) exposure to blood or other body fluids, the student is to do the following:
1. Wash the skin exposure site well with soap and water. Flush eye with water. Do not bleed
tissue. Rinse well.
2. Inform the preceptor who will guide you on procedure to follow according to agency policy.
3. Inform the facility director and course faculty member.
4. Complete necessary incident or agency reports as soon as possible or at a later date, based on
exposure risks. Students are responsible for complying with clinical agency exposure policy
and recommended follow up.
5. Leave the practicum site as soon as possible to obtain medical consultation and evaluation.
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