Nursing Student-Related Policies - Monroe Community College
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Nursing Student-Related Policies
Policy Manual 2022-2023
Student-Related Policies ................................................................................................................................. 4
Diversity Statement .................................................................................................................................... 4
Civility Statement ....................................................................................................................................... 4
Academic Honesty...................................................................................................................................... 4
Requirements for Participation in The Nursing Program ........................................................................... 5
Essential Functions for Clinical Participation in The Nursing Program ................................................ 5
Physical Essential Functions .............................................................................................................. 5
Cognitive Essential Functions ............................................................................................................ 5
Psycho/Social Essential Functions ..................................................................................................... 6
Program Health and Certification Requirements.................................................................................... 6
Applicants to the Nursing Program .................................................................................................... 6
Participants in the Nursing Program ................................................................................................... 7
Health Related Variances ................................................................................................................... 8
Leave of Absence ............................................................................................................................... 8
Students with Disabilities Accommodation Statement ...................................................................... 9
Electronic Medical Record Training Course .......................................................................................... 9
Other Requirements .................................................................................................................................... 9
Continuation in the Nursing Program ..................................................................................................... 9
Re-Admission Policy .............................................................................................................................. 9
Student Insurance ................................................................................................................................. 10
Student Injury Procedure ...................................................................................................................... 10
Student Unprotected Exposure to Blood/Body Fluids Procedures and Checklist ................................ 10
Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Checklist.............................................................................................. 11
On Campus Exposure ........................................................................................................................... 11
Off Campus Exposure .......................................................................................................................... 11
All Exposures ....................................................................................................................................... 11
Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Policy Medical Programs ................................................................ 12
Procedure for Insurance Coverage ................................................................................................... 13
Guidelines for Professional Behavior ................................................................................................... 13
Behaviors and Attitudes.................................................................................................................... 13
Professional Appearance/Student Dress Code for Clinical Laboratory ........................................... 15
Student Request for Change of Clinical Laboratory Section ........................................................... 16
Student Absence ............................................................................................................................... 17
Notification of Cancellation of Classes ............................................................................................ 17
Grading Policies ............................................................................................................................... 18
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 2Student Records ................................................................................................................................ 18
Clinical Laboratory ........................................................................................................................... 18
Clinical Performance Appraisal........................................................................................................ 19
Faculty Release of Student Performance Information ...................................................................... 20
Nursing Learning Center (NLC)....................................................................................................... 20
Copyright Guidelines ........................................................................................................................ 20
Nursing Scholarships and Awards .................................................................................................... 20
The Special Nursing Fund ................................................................................................................ 21
The Porcari Emergency Fund ........................................................................................................... 21
Electronic Communications ............................................................................................................. 21
Department of Nursing Examsoft Procedure—Examsoft™ Test Taking Policy ............................. 22
Examination Procedures Department of Nursing ............................................................................. 24
Dosage Calculation Competency Exam Guidelines ......................................................................... 25
Requirements for Admittance to R.N. Licensure Exam ................................................................... 29
Program of Study and Graduation Requirements ............................................................................. 30
Student Program Audit Form ................................................................................................................... 31
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 3Student-Related Policies
Diversity Statement
“MCC is an academic community made up of individuals who reflect differences in sex, gender,
nationality, culture, ethnicity, religion, color, race, skill, physical ability, country of origin, migration
status, and sexual orientation. For more than fifty years, the College has evolved to meet the ever-
changing needs of our students and our community. We are proud of our efforts thus far and are deeply
committed to continuing to grow as a community that becomes more inclusive moving forward. In
response to demographic changes in the College community and to address the needs of the business
community, the College has developed new and exciting degree programs, created unique educational and
workforce initiatives, and built contemporary urban and suburban facilities.
As a community of global learners, we are proud to affirm and celebrate the rich diversity that exists
among us. We believe acknowledging and celebrating our diversity is essential to maintaining academic
freedom and inquiry. We maintain that valuing differences can teach us more about ourselves as human
beings and provide us with creative energy that results when we learn from each other.
Valuing diversity requires a willingness to respect and understand the full range of thought, feeling, and
viewpoints of all members of the College community. To achieve these ends, we strive to maintain open
minds; we suspend judgment and seek others’ views and insights for consideration when making decisions
and reaching conclusions. The MCC community supports learning activities that enhance our knowledge,
awareness, and appreciation of diversity. To this end, we seek to expand our efforts to eradicate
unconscious bias along the lines of misogyny, transphobia, racism, xenophobia, ethnocentrism, racism,
ableism, class bias, and biases along religiosity and country of origin.”
Civility Statement
“Civility: Our Community’s Core Values”
We, the students, faculty, staff, and administration of Monroe Community College are committed to core
values that include:
• Creating an environment where we value and respect each other;
• Promoting a community that encourages the tolerance of divergent opinions and constructive
resolution of conflict;
• Exchanging ideas and enriching our lives through the exploration of our multi-faceted culture;
• Embracing responsibility, honesty, integrity, and courtesy;
• Respecting the dignity, rights, and freedoms of every community member;
• Respecting the intellectual and physical property of others; and
• Respecting college property including both public and private spaces.
“We, as a community of learners, are affirming these core values to guide our actions and behaviors.”
Academic Honesty
In the academic process, it is generally assumed that intellectual honesty and integrity are basic
responsibilities of the student. However, faculty members should accept their correlative responsibility to
regulate academic work and to conduct examination procedures in such a manner as not to invite
violations of academic honesty. Such violations consist mainly of cheating and plagiarism.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 4The use of instructor materials and resources constitutes academic dishonesty and may be grounds for
disciplinary action. The Monroe Community College Catalog/Student Handbook provides the definition of
Academic Honesty/Dishonesty and information specific to disciplinary action and procedure for appeal.
Requirements for Participation in The Nursing Program
Essential Functions for Clinical Participation in The Nursing Program
Each participant in the nursing program must have the ability, unaided or with the assistance of reasonable
accommodation, to perform these Essential Functions (Physical, Cognitive, and Psycho/Social).
Reasonable accommodation is a modification or adjustment that enables an otherwise qualified individual
with a disability to have an opportunity to attain the same level of performance or to enjoy equal benefits
and privileges that are available to a similarly situated individual without a disability. A reasonable
accommodation is defined on a case-by-case basis by the MCC Services for Students with Disabilities
office, in consult with MCC Health Services and the Department of Nursing, and must take into
consideration:
a. the specific abilities and functional limitations of the individual
b. the specific functional requirements of the nursing program.
Reasonable accommodations are directed toward providing an equal educational and/or employment
opportunity for the disabled individual while providing for the safety of the individual, patient, and agency
staff.
Physical Essential Functions
• Sit, stand, walk, bend, and reach for long periods of time in accordance with the length of the
clinical day.
• Lift ≥ 35 lbs., push, pull, carry, grasp, twist, hold/support extremities, or persons (e.g. during
transferring, ambulating, turning, moving or lifting patients in beds).
• Manipulate equipment that requires both fine and gross motor skills such as, but not limited to
wheelchairs, beds, IV pumps, blood pressure cuffs, and computer keyboards.
• Maintain full functional use of all senses, including feeling, hearing, seeing, speaking, and
detecting odors for activities such as, but not limited to, responding to alarm sounds, performing
patient assessments, and reading medical records.
Cognitive Essential Functions
• Communicate information in English in an understandable and effective manner, both person-to-
person and with the use of telecommunications devices as well as in writing, both longhand and by
electronic/computer devices.
• Interpret written, verbal and electronic communication in English accurately
• Maintain an alert level of consciousness and orientation to time, place and person at all times.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 5Psycho/Social Essential Functions
• Function effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Exercise sound judgment regarding all responsibilities, using patience, tact, and flexibility.
• Demonstrate compassion, integrity, empathy, accountability, respect, honesty and a neat, clean
professional appearance.
• Maintain a level of functioning unimpaired by substances such as alcohol, prescription or illegal
drugs.
• Maintain emotional health and mental well-being.
Program Health and Certification Requirements
The Department of Nursing recognizes the delicate balance that exists between the right of people to
develop to their fullest potential and the physical, intellectual and emotional abilities required for the
practice of Registered Professional Nursing. To participate in the nursing program, all applicants, students
and faculty must meet these health requirements.
Applicants to the Nursing Program
Each applicant must have a preadmission health screening that includes:
1. A health assessment and physical examination.
2. Proof of vaccination or immunity to
a. Rubella
b. Rubeola
c. Mumps
d. hepatitis B, + titer, or signed waiver declining immunization for hepatitis B.
e. varicella vaccination, medical documentation of history of disease or + titer
f. influenza vaccine
g. COVID-19 Vaccine
3. Documentation of meningitis vaccine or waiver of vaccine.
4. Proof of results of intradermal test for tuberculosis or acceptable evidence of freedom from
communicability, chest x-ray or results of QuantiFeron blood test.
5. Review of health status to determine that the applicant is able to perform the Essential Functions
for Participation in the Nursing Program as listed in the Department Policy Manual.
6. A declination of influenza vaccination waiver must be submitted to the Department of Nursing if a
student or faculty member is unable to receive the influenza vaccine. Submission of this waiver is
required only once. Reasonable accommodations will be made by the department to place the
student in an appropriate clinical site to meet program and institution requirements.
7. Students can refuse the vaccine, even if mandated by MCC and affiliated clinical agencies.
However, if the student refuses to be vaccinated, is not entitled to a reasonable accommodation
under agency approved medical exemptions, or is not entitled to a reasonable accommodation for a
sincerely held religious belief, the student will be disenrolled from the nursing program.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 6Participants in the Nursing Program
To continue participation in the nursing program, each student and faculty must:
1. Maintain the ability to perform the Essential Functions for Participation in the Nursing Program.
2. Complete an annual reassessment of health status on admittance into the program (by the first
clinical session) and every May while enrolled in the program.
3. Provide MCC Health Services proof of results of intradermal test for tuberculosis or acceptable
evidence of freedom from communicability, chest x-ray or results of QuantiFeron blood test on
admittance into the program (by the first clinical session) and every May, while enrolled in the
program,
4. On or before October 25 each year, provide the MCC Nursing Office proof of influenza
vaccination and keep a copy for submission to assigned clinical agency. Vaccination
documentation must include: vaccine manufacturer, lot number and expiration date, date
administered as well as name/address of administering healthcare provider/pharmacy. A
Declination of Influenza Vaccination waiver (See Appendices), provided upon request from the
MCC Nursing Office, must be signed if a student does not get the influenza vaccination for any
reason. Please note that NYS Hospital Laws and Regulations mandate wearing a surgical or
procedural mask during influenza season for personnel who have not received the influenza
vaccine during the influenza season. (405.3-Admininstration).
5. Report a change in physical status, such as injury, extended illness, or surgery. The student must
immediately inform the clinical faculty and provide written notification to the department chair and
the course coordinator within five business days. Written clearance from a healthcare provider,
which has been reviewed by MCC Health Services, must be obtained prior to participation in
clinical. The clearance must state that the student/faculty can fully participate in clinical laboratory
without restrictions (refer to Essential Functions for Participation in the Nursing Program).
Transition to another clinical nursing course requires re-evaluation of the student/faculty’s health
status.
6. Provide proof of CPR/AED certification from the American Heart Association (BLS Healthcare
Provider). This must be presented to the Department of Nursing office at least one month prior to
starting the program and must be maintained throughout each clinical course.
7. Students must complete (or present certificate of completion for) a NYS Mandatory Training for
via a NYSED Office of Professions approved provider prior to completion of NUR 111 or NUR
050.
https://nyrequirements.com/register/infection-control-and-barrier
precautions?gclid=EAIaIQobChMImdOSy-ye5gIVD18NCh1VGgm5EAAYASAAEgIo9_D_BwE
8. Students must complete and present a certificate of completion for the NYS Mandated Reporter
Training: Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse and Maltreatment prior to completion of NUR
211. Information and web link will be provided by NUR 211 faculty.
9. Failure to comply with the above requirements (#2-#6) by the first off-campus clinical will result
in the student receiving an absence and clinical incident report, unless there are extenuating
circumstances approved by the Department of Nursing Chairperson.
Faculty Only: provide proof of current licensure as a N.Y.S. Registered Professional Nurse
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 7Health Related Variances
An individual who cannot safely perform the Essential Functions for Participation in the Nursing Program
cannot continue attending clinical classes. This student may be withdrawn for health reasons.
If a student needs to withdraw due to a change in health, the student will:
1. Meet with the Department of Nursing Chairperson.
2. Obtain required health documentation from their personal healthcare provider indicating a
restriction to clinical classes.
3. Submit the required health documentation to MCC Health Services for determination of whether a
withdrawal is indicated. All submitted documentation is kept confidential. Only MCC Health
Services can determine a withdrawal due to health reasons for a student.
The Department of Nursing will then withdraw the student from the clinical course. This leave from the
nursing program is valid for one semester unless further documentation of needed absence is again
reviewed by MCC Health Services. Further documentation would provide one more semester of leave.
When the student has been cleared by MCC Health Services to return, the student is expected to return if a
space is available. Clearance for readmission must be obtained through MCC Health Services for Spring
semester return by December 1, and for Fall semester return by June 15. A student may not choose to
extend their medical leave for personal issues not directly related to health. If a person is out of the nursing
program for more than one year due to health reasons, the student will need to discuss a return with the
Department of Nursing Chairperson. Re-admission at that point is not guaranteed.
Leave of Absence
A student may request a one semester Leave of Absence from his or her course of study for medical or
other personal reasons. It is recommended that the student:
1. Meet with the Department of Nursing Chairperson to request a Leave of Absence prior to the
beginning of the semester during which leave will occur.
2. Provide MCC Health Services with documentation of the reason for the leave of absence, if the
leave is for a medical reason.
Prior to resuming studies following the Leave of Absence for a medical reason, the student must provide
MCC Health Services with medical clearance indicating they are able to perform the Essential Functions
for Participation in the Nursing Program and to return to Clinical Laboratory. The expectation is that the
student return during the semester immediately following his or her Leave of Absence, provided a seat is
offered by the Department of Nursing.
Medical Leave of Absence due to Pregnancy
Students who step out for the birth or adoption of a child will be readmitted at the same academic standing
in which they left. The expectation is that the student returns the semester immediately following his or
her leave of absence provided a seat is available. If the seat is declined, the student may be readmitted on a
space available basis. The student must provide MCC Health Services with medical clearance indicating
they are able to perform the Essential Functions for Participation in the Nursing Program and return to
clinical laboratory.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 8Students with Disabilities Accommodation Statement
Any student who has a special educational need which results from a documented disability should see the
Coordinator of Services for Students with Disabilities each semester. In addition, students with disabilities
must sign a departmental agreement each semester they seek accommodations. Further information can be
accessed on-line at the MCC Web Page (www.monroecc.edu). In the A-Z Index, select D and click on
Disabilities-Services.
Any student working with the Office of Disability Services to receive services through the college should
notify the faculty. Students must work closely with faculty to coordinate implementation of approved
services in a timely manner.
Electronic Medical Record Training Course
Each student will be required to meet Electronic Medical Record Training Course for each of their
assigned clinical courses. This training may occur prior to or outside of scheduled class time.
Other Requirements
** All policies of the College and the Department of Nursing are, and will be, followed.
The program of study must be completed within five years of matriculation. NUR 050 is required for
students who are transferring into the program, admitted with advanced standing, or returning to the
program after an absence of one year. Completion of NUR 050 is valid for one year. Students reentering
NUR 111 do not need to take NUR 050. NUR 050 cannot be used as an elective in the nursing program.
Any deviation from the basic program of study requires written approval from the department.
Continuation in the Nursing Program
A minimum grade of C is necessary in all required nursing and biology courses for continued
matriculation in the program. No student may progress to the next nursing course level without successful
completion of all courses in the previous level. A student who fails to achieve a C or better in the fourth
semester NUR course will be ineligible for graduation.
Re-Admission Policy
Nursing is a high-demand, rigorous, and competitive program. Nursing students who fail or withdraw
from one MCC clinical nursing course (a single failure) will be considered for readmission. Nursing
students who have a second MCC clinical course failure or withdraw while failing a second time will not
be considered for readmission. (Withdrawals from nursing courses at institutions other than MCC will not
be considered. Failures from other institutions will not be considered.) A student who has been previously
enrolled in a clinical nursing course at MCC and earned a grade below C or a W in the course will not be
eligible for admission/re-admission to NUR 111 or NUR 112, unless there are documented extenuating
circumstances that warrant consideration. If the second academic failure occurs in NUR 214, the student
may be considered for readmission at the recommendation of the Department of Nursing faculty. If both
failures occur in NUR 214, the student will not be considered for readmission.
Nursing department criteria for ranking of readmission candidates includes theory grades and/or quality
points, clinical performance appraisals, and attendance. A letter of extenuating circumstances, including a
plan for success, is always required for readmission to any nursing course. An application to the College
may also be required.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 9Students who have successfully completed a lower level clinical nursing course and moved on to a higher-
level course OR students who have matriculated into the program with advanced standing (LPNs, transfer
students) and then are unsuccessful in the higher-level course are ineligible to apply to begin the program
again from NUR 111. LPNs who matriculate into the NU 01 (full program option) who are unsuccessful in
NUR 111 are ineligible to then take the Excelsior Challenge exam and matriculate with advanced
standing.
Students who are unsuccessful in the MCC NU 01 (full program option) or another nursing program and
who then successfully complete an LPN program and meet eligibility requirements may apply to
matriculate into the program with advanced standing (NU 02 or NU 03).
All readmissions in the nursing program are on a space available basis and are not guaranteed.
Student Insurance
All nursing students are required to carry health insurance for each semester that they are matriculated in
the nursing program. All nursing students will find a charge for insurance coverage on their tuition bill. If
a student is covered under a separate health insurance policy, the student must provide a copy of the
current insurance card to the Department of Nursing office.
The student will be required to sign a waiver in order to remove the school charge from the tuition bill. If
coverage is lost during program enrollment, the student must see Department of Nursing office personnel
for instructions.
Student Injury Procedure
When a student sustains an injury on campus or in the clinical laboratory, faculty and student immediately
follow the policy of the agency where the injury occurred. In all instances of injury, faculty also must
notify the MCC Departments of Public Safety to file a report as soon as possible. If the injury prevents
participation in clinical then Health Services should be notified and a clearance will need to be submitted
from the faculty/student’s primary care doctor in order to return to clinical.
Student Unprotected Exposure to Blood/Body Fluids Procedures and Checklist
Noted on next page.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 10Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Checklist
Student Name: M#:
Phone Number: Instructor:
Agency Where Exposure Occurred:
Date of Exposure:
Make sure the exposed area has been washed thoroughly for five (5) full minutes.
Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse Occupational Medicine Sites:
• 2745 Ridge Road West, Rochester, NY 14626 (585) 225-5252
• 2685 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14623 (585) 444-0058
• Hours Monday through Friday: 9am to 10pm; Saturday and Sunday 9am to 8pm
On Campus Exposure
Advise the Source Person of need for blood work to be done. Have source person and student
contact.
Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse Occupational Medicine to arrange testing and follow-up assessment/care.
Off Campus Exposure
Follow agency protocol for immediate post exposure care if available.
Make sure Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse Occupational Medicine has been contacted as soon as
possible and that necessary follow-up assessment/care has been arranged. (If post exposure care is
not available at the agency RIC should be contacted immediately for post exposure care.)
Inform the Source Patient that a student has been exposed to their blood/body fluids and that they
will be asked to consent to having blood drawn to test for HIV and Hepatitis. Reassure them that
there is no risk to them!
Results of testing should be sent to Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse Occupational Medicine.
All Exposures
Instruct student to go to Public Safety to complete an Incident Report
Make sure the student submits an insurance claim form describing the incident to Klais & Co.
(available through the MCC Health Services website) at the time of the exposure.
Faculty / Staff signature indicates review of steps with student
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 11Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Policy Medical Programs
A student who has accidental exposure to a patient’s blood or body fluids should IMMEDIATELY clean
the wound thoroughly with soap and water for five minutes and report the exposure to the Clinical
Instructor.
• If the exposure occurs at a clinical agency where immediate post exposure care is available, the
agency policy should be followed. The student should contact Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse
Occupational Medicine, 2745 Ridge Road West, Rochester, NY, 585-225-5252 as soon as possible
after they have been treated at the clinical site as any necessary testing/follow-up care will be
coordinated by RIC. The office is open 9am to 9pm Monday through Friday and 9am to 8pm on
Saturday and Sunday.
Tell the receptionist that you are an MCC student and have had a blood/body fluid exposure
(indicate specifically what happened: that you stuck yourself with a used needle, cut yourself with
a used instrument, splashed patient’s blood or body fluid in your eye, etc.) and that you have been
seen at the clinical agency. RIC may request that you bring in documentation of any treatment
received at the clinical agency. Staff at Rochester Immediate Care is expert in occupational
medicine and regularly manages exposure follow-up.
• If the exposure occurs at a clinical agency where post exposure care and/or blood testing is not
available, the student should immediately call Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse Occupational
Medicine, 2745 Ridge Road West, Rochester, NY, (585) 225-5252. The office is open 9am to 9pm
Monday through Friday and 9am to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday.
(If exposure occurs when this office is closed, the student should go to the nearest emergency room
for post exposure care and contact RIC when it opens for follow-up.)
Tell the receptionist that you are an MCC student and have had a blood/body fluid exposure
(indicate specifically what happened: that you stuck yourself with a used needle, cut yourself with
a used instrument, splashed patient’s blood or body fluid in your eye, etc.) and will be coming in
for counseling regarding post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and blood testing. Students should be
prepared to show Student ID and insurance information upon arrival.
The Immediate Care staff will provide any added treatment that may be needed for the injury,
perform a risk assessment and will provide appropriate testing and prophylactic treatment
medications. Follow-up appointments will be made as necessary.
The Clinical Instructor will utilize the Blood Borne Pathogen Checklist to:
• Confirm that the exposed Student has thoroughly washed the area for a full 5 minutes and has
contacted RIC.
• Follow the agency policy/procedure for testing the Source Patient for HIV and Hepatitis. Results
should be sent to Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse.
o If the exposure occurs at an agency where testing is not available, the Source Patient should
be directed to have the blood drawn as soon as possible at Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse
at 2745 Ridge Road West (585) 225-5252.
o Inform the Source Patient they will be contacted by Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse
regarding the results of their blood testing
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 12o Advise the Source Patient that any charges not covered by the patient’s personal insurance
will be covered by MCC. Bills should be submitted to the Director of the Dental Program
for follow up.
o Ensure that the student goes to Public Safety to complete an Incident Report form.
The Exposed Student will be informed of the Source Patient’s HIV and Hepatitis status as soon as possible
by Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse.
Procedure for Insurance Coverage
The student should submit an insurance claim form as soon as possible after follow up care has been
provided. Please send forms to:
NAHGA Claim Services 88 Main Street
PO Box 189
Bridgton, ME 04009
Toll Free: (800) 952-4320
Fax: (207) 647-4569
http://www.nahgaclaimservices.com
A form must be filed in order for claims to be paid.
Use the link https://www.nahgaclaimservices.com/submit-a-claim/existing-claim-update to complete the
electronic claim form.
Instructions for filling out the claim form:
• All students must complete the form in its entirety. This is an accident not a work-related injury.
• If the student has personal health insurance (e.g. Preferred Care, Blue Choice, etc.) they are the
primary payor. In this case A.J. Flood Student Insurance is the secondary payor and should cover
costs (e.g. copayment, etc.) not covered by the primary insurance.
• If the student does not have personal health insurance other than MCC Student Health Insurance,
then A.J. Flood becomes the primary payor.
• Make and of all documents submitted to insurance companies (e.g. claim forms, bills, explanation
of benefits, etc.)
• Mail the completed claim form to the address at the top of the form immediately. Do not wait to be
billed by Rochester Immediate Care/Pulse Occupational Medicine.
Guidelines for Professional Behavior
Behaviors and Attitudes
The Department of Nursing expects behavior in accord with Conduct Regulations as stated in the Monroe
Community College Catalog. The Department also expects students to present a professional demeanor at
all times. Demonstration of the following behaviors and attitudes is requisite:
1. Integrity-as exemplified by honesty
2. Accountability-by being answerable for own actions
3. Responsibility-by being reliable and conscientious
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 134. Dependability-by being trustworthy and reliable
5. Courtesy-by being polite and respectful of others
a. Students should not attend clinical laboratory if they have a fever, chills, cough, sputum
production, exanthema, vesicles, skin lesions, weeping dermatitis, draining wounds, sores,
diarrhea, etc.
b. The student will respect the policies of confidentiality related to patient information.
c. Students are not allowed to store any patient data on an electronic portable device.
Furthermore, the possession/presence or use of any electronic portable device or camera,
other than those provided by clinical faculty, in the clinical area is strictly prohibited.
Failure to comply with this directive may result in disciplinary action.
d. In regards to social media: Any statement made electronically which can cause actual or
potential harm or injury to another or to the school will be grounds for dismissal.
e. Students are to be at their assigned clinical sites (including observation sites) only during
clinical laboratory hours designated by their clinical instructor. Students may not be at the
clinical site without the knowledge of their clinical instructor. Students may not duplicate
any original patient documentation and take it out of the clinical site.
f. Substance Use and Abuse: See Nursing Policy for the Suspected Impaired Student in
Classroom or Clinical setting.
Any student violating the following rules of conduct will be subject to disciplinary actions
including suspension and/or expulsion.
1. Illegal possession, use, sale, or transfer of any controlled substance is prohibited.
2. A student who presents signs of impairment related to substance abuse, including
alcohol, will be dismissed from class and/or clinical lab.
g. No smoking or gum chewing in the clinical area.
h. Be aware of and follow the provisions of the ANA Code of Ethics:
Provision 1: The nurse practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity,
worth, and unique attributes of every person.
Provision 2: The nurse’s primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual,
family, group, community, or population.
Provision 3: The nurse promotes, advocates for, and protects the rights, health, and safety
of the patient.
Provision 4: The nurse has authority, accountability, and responsibility for nursing
practice; makes decisions; and takes action consistent with the obligation to promote health
and to provide optimal care.
Provision 5: The nurse owes the same duties to self as to others, including the
responsibility to promote health and safety, preserve wholeness of character and integrity,
maintain competence, and continue personal and professional growth.
Provision 6: The nurse, through individual and collective effort, establishes, maintains, and
improves the ethical environment of the work setting and conditions of employment that
are conducive to safe, quality health care.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 14Provision 7: The nurse, in all roles and settings, advances the profession through research
and scholarly inquiry, professional standards development, and the generation of both
nursing and health policy.
Provision 8: The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public to
protect human rights, promote health diplomacy, and reduce health disparities.
Provision 9: The profession of nursing, collectively through its professional organizations,
must articulate nursing values, maintain the integrity of the profession, and integrate
principles of social justice into nursing and health policy.
Professional Appearance/Student Dress Code for Clinical Laboratory
Students not in compliance with the guidelines for professional appearance or the dress code will not be
permitted to participate in the clinical experience. Requests for exceptions (or modifications for religious
reasons) must be submitted in writing to the Department Chairperson.
1. Personal grooming means strict personal hygiene.
2. Fingernails are to be kept short, clean and are not to extend more than ¼” beyond the fingertip.
Nail polish and false fingernails are not to be worn in the clinical setting.
3. No scented perfumes, colognes, hair products, after shave lotions or offensive odors, including
cigarette smoke.
4. Hair must be contained at or above the collar or pulled back. Any student having a mustache or
beard must keep it neat and trimmed.
5. Excessive makeup is prohibited.
6. Wearing of jewelry other than wedding rings, post-type earrings, and one chain/necklace which is
not visibly exposed in prohibited. Wearing of visible facial metal/body jewelry (including tongue)
is prohibited.
7. Any experience requiring MCC student nurse uniform:
a. Uniform must be regulation MCC uniform with MCC patch clearly visible and sewn onto
the left sleeve. Pants or below the knee scrub skirts are acceptable. Uniforms must be clean
and neat.
b. Name pin with plastic sleeve containing MCC student ID, pen, and watch that indicates
seconds are essential parts of the uniform.
c. Shoes must be all black nurse’s shoes with nonskid soles or clean, all black sneakers with
clean laces that have been designated only for clinical use. No clogs are permitted. Skin
tone stockings are required for skirts (no ankle stockings). Students should wear skin tone
stockings or black socks with pants.
d. Stethoscopes are required for all clinical courses (except NUR 211).
e. When student uniforms are not required for clinical laboratory, clinical faculty will inform
students of appropriate attire.
f. Visible tattoos must be covered per agency policy.
g. A clean short or long sleeve plain white (or black) T-shirt may be worn under regulation
MCC uniform top.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 15h. An optional white scrub jacket with MCC patch clearly visible and sewn onto the left
sleeve may also be worn.
i. Agency policy may supersede the above student dress code.
Student Request for Change of Clinical Laboratory Section
1. Prior to beginning the course:
a. The student who desires a change in clinical laboratory section should submit a written
request, including reason for request, to the department chairperson. The chairperson will
make the decision and inform the student and faculty.
b. Students who have had an association (for example as a staff member, as a patient’s family
member, or as a patient) with a local psychiatric inpatient unit or community program
should not be assigned to that site for psychiatric clinical experience. Students are advised
to discuss this policy further with the Department of Nursing Chairperson to facilitate
appropriate clinical placement.
c. Students may not attend clinical laboratory or observation sites on a unit where they are
currently employed. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the Department of Nursing
office if a conflict of this nature exists.
2. While the course is in progress:
a. The student who desires a change in clinical laboratory section should submit a written
request, including reason for request, to the course coordinator. The course coordinator will
inform the teaching team and the department chairperson of the student’s request in a
timely fashion. The teaching team, in consultation with the Department Chairperson, will
decide if the change will be made, assign the student to another section if a change is
indicated, and inform the student of the decision.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 16Student Absence
Refer to College Absence Policy and individual course outlines. See below for information regarding
attendance at clinical.
Please consider the information from NYS noted below and refer to the COVID-19 website below
regarding clinical attendance (https://www.monroecc.edu/coronavirus)
New York State Mandated Infection Control Information
(Follow agency and CDC guidelines during COVID-19 pandemic)
Evaluation of acute/incubating illnesses in health care workers:
• Symptoms which need evaluation for work fitness include: fever, chills, cough, sputum production,
exanthems, vesicles, skin lesions, weeping dermatitis, draining wounds, sores and diarrhea.
Students with these symptoms should not attend clinical laboratory.
• Post-exposure evaluation for incubating diseases in susceptibles:
These illnesses require evaluation for disease occurrence whenever a susceptible health care worker is
exposed: mumps, pertussis, rubella, rubeola, tuberculosis, varicella.
• Interim management strategies which may be employed during the evaluation period may include:
o limiting contact with susceptibles
o furlough until noninfectious
o evaluation and treatment as needed
Notification of Cancellation of Classes
If the College is closed due to inclement weather or some other emergency, all Rochester area radio and
television stations will be notified no later than 5:30am or in the case of a mid-day decision, no later than
3pm. In addition, the homepage on the MCC website (www.monroecc.edu) will display a message
indicating the College is closed or classes are cancelled. Please do not call the College to avoid
overloading the telephone lines.
In the event of an emergency, such as a campus evacuation or closure, severe weather alert, fire in a
building, hazardous material incident, etc., where time-sensitive, proactive actions need to be
communicated, the SUNY NY-Alert system will be utilized to provide immediate notification to all MCC
students and employees who have opted to receive such alerts. Those who sign up for SUNY NY-Alert
can choose to receive emergency messages via a variety of communication technologies, such as e-mail
(college and/or personal accounts), and audio and/or text message to a campus, home or cell phone, fax,
etc.
For more information on SUNY NY-Alert, including how to sign up, please visit:
www.monroecc.edu/depts/pstd/mcc-alert-system/.
Information regarding class cancellation is available daily on the web or through the telephone. Simply go
to the MCC website and select the link in the second heading menu labeled “Current Students”, and then
select the “Class Cancellations” link along the left column under the “Academics at MCC” section.
Additionally, class cancellation information is available by dialing (585) 292-2066, press “1” for the
Brighton campus and “2” for the Downtown campus. If possible, please use the web, as there could be
delays in the voice recordings based on the number of cancellations.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 17Grading Policies
See catalog, course outlines and Appendices of the Department of Nursing Policy Manual.
Student Records
See Appendices of the Department of Nursing Policy Manual for folders and forms.
All records after fall 2020 are archived on M:\Offices\Academic Services\Divisions\STEM and
HSPW\Nursing
Each matriculated student prior to fall 2020 has three folders in which records are kept:
Folders
1. Admissions folder
2. Academic folder
3. Clinical folder
Healthcare Organization Orientation and Mandatory Review
Clinical agencies require students to review mandatory topics annually. These topics are contained in the
online “Orientation Packet for Students and Non-Employed Professionals” and on a video which meets the
New York State requirements for review of Universal Precautions. (See Tracking Form in the Appendices
of the Department of the Department of Nursing Policy Manual). Students must read the online material at
the beginning of each semester, and are required to view the video either during or prior to their first
clinical course. Each student must complete a mandatory online post-test with a passing grade of 90% and
attest via Brightspace that the above requirements have been met. Students must also sign a composite
form for the clinical agency confirming that these requirements have been met. Faculty forward this form
to the appropriate agencies.
Disposition/Academic Records
1. After the student graduates, the Academic and Clinical folders are combined and kept in the
Department Office for two years before being microfilmed. Once processed, a list is made of the
records contained on each roll of microfilm and the original records are destroyed. The rolls of
microfilm are kept in Records Management. Copies of the records list are kept in the Department
Office and in Records Management, located in Equipment Management. Copies of records
contained on microfilm are available from Records Management.
2. Inactive Students: Academic and Clinical folders of students who have left the program after
completing one clinical nursing course are kept in the Department of Nursing Office for 5 years,
then are destroyed.
Clinical Laboratory
Exceptional Performance Report may be issued by the clinical faculty to a student:
1. whose behavior or performance in the clinical area exceeds the expected clinical standards for the
course.
2. whose performance or behavior in the clinical area has shown great improvement yet does not
exceed the expected standards for the course.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 18The decision to award the Exceptional Performance Report is at the discretion of the clinical faculty. Two
copies of the award should be made. One copy is placed in the student’s academic folder and one copy
given to the student.
Incident Report may be issued by the clinical faculty to a student:
1. whose preparation/performance in the clinical area does not consistently meet the expected clinical
standards for the course.
2. who fails to implement safe care as evidenced by lack of knowledge, poor judgment, omission of
procedures or commission of errors.
This report will be completed by the clinical faculty and reviewed with the student prior to the next
clinical laboratory. A plan for problem remediation will be developed by the student and faculty member.
Both parties will sign the Incident Report. Two copies of the Incident Report will be made. One copy is
placed in M:\Offices\Academic Services\Divisions\STEM and HSPW\Nursing\Incident Reports and one
copy given to the student. If the student becomes inactive, the Incident Report will remain in the student’s
inactive file. Upon successful completion of the program and graduation, the Incident Report will be
destroyed.
Review of a student’s clinical performance; will occur when the student:
1. shows consistent or repeated inability to meet course standards
2. shows unsatisfactory clinical performance
3. accumulates Incident Reports
4. has unsatisfactory attendance
Clinical Performance Appraisal
1. A Clinical Performance Appraisal (CPA) is completed for the student in each clinical nursing
course. The faculty will meet with the student to discuss the appraisal.
2. In order to achieve a satisfactory clinical grade, the student must meet the standard on at least the
minimum number of criteria (as identified by the faculty for each individual course), including all
of the criteria highlighted as critical with an asterisk (*). Failure to Meet Standard on the minimum
number of criteria, or failure to Meet Standard on any of the critical elements (* item), will result
in a clinical grade of “Unsatisfactory” and may result in immediate dismissal from the program.
Students who receive an “Unsatisfactory” clinical grade may achieve a grade of no higher than C-
for the course.
3. If, at any time during a course, a student’s clinical performance is documented as consistently
unsafe based on the Clinical Performance Appraisal, the student will receive an “Unsatisfactory”
clinical grade and cannot participate in the clinical laboratory experience for the remainder of the
course.
4. If a student receives a clinical failure grade (regardless of theory grade) prior to the end of a
clinical course, the student will have the option of either withdrawing from the course (student
initiated) or receiving an “F” as a final course grade. The student will not be allowed to attend any
further course-related learning activities.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 19Faculty Release of Student Performance Information
Releasing Information
Under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (1974) (The Buckley Amendment), faculty are
prohibited from releasing student performance information (such as grades, clinical performance
evaluation, references) unless the student gives specific written permission. Confidentiality prevents the
release of student performance information over the phone.
Clinical Performance References
Students must sign permission before faculty divulge information about student performance. A student’s
written request for a reference will meet the requirement of the law, but does not waive the student’s right
to see the reference. The student must sign specific permission to waive the right to see the reference.
Student Grievance Procedure - See MCC College Catalog/Student Handbook
Nursing Learning Center (NLC)
Resources available in the NLC may be used for required and supplemental theory development and skill
practice. These resources include faculty and commercially prepared audiotapes, videotapes and computer
assisted instruction programs, interactive video programs, equipment and supplies commonly used in the
clinical setting, simulators, books, pamphlets and articles.
Resources are available to students in several ways:
1. Materials temporarily rented by the College will only be available during scheduled conferences
and, for a brief time after, available from NLC personnel.
2. Selected MCC-owned materials will be available for use in the NLC.
3. Required computer assisted instruction materials may be available in the Electronic Learning
Center as well as the NLC
4. Materials must not be removed from the NLC. If any audio-visual materials disappear, access will
be restricted for the remainder of the semester.
5. The NLC is for use by MCC nursing students only. Children are not permitted.
Copyright Guidelines
In accordance with the Copyright Act of 1976 (Public Law 94-553, Title 17 of the U.S. Code), the
Department of Nursing does not sanction illegal use or duplication of copyrighted materials. This includes,
but is not limited to printed materials, examinations, films, video-tapes, audiotapes, and computer
programs. Materials that have been produced/developed by MCC faculty, may only be reproduced
(copied) with the permission of the faculty member who created the material.
Nursing Scholarships and Awards
Information on student awards and scholarships is available to faculty through the Student-Faculty
Committee. The Student-Faculty Committee and the college-wide electronic scholarship process called
“Scholarships Online” notifies students of the application and granting process for the awards and
scholarships. Selection of award and scholarship recipients is made by the faculty. In some cases,
scholarship fund donors assist in the selection process.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 20The Special Nursing Fund
The Special Nursing Fund can be used for nursing student loans and approved faculty purposes.
Nursing student loans may be made from the Special Nursing Fund (emergency loan fund) by Financial
Aid, but the Department of Nursing retains control of the guidelines and procedures for granting the loans.
Student Procedures
1. When a crisis situation results in either interference with progress in the program or possible
withdrawal from the program, interest-free financial assistance may be given to any NU 01, NU
02, or NU 03 student in satisfactory academic standing. Such a crisis should result from
unanticipated expenses rather than from expected expenditures for tuition, uniforms, fees, and
books.
2. The student is not eligible to apply for a loan until he/she has satisfactorily completed 6 weeks of a
nursing course with a clinical component.
3. The loan will be for a minimum of $10.00 and a maximum of $200.00 per student.
4. The student brings a form from the Department of Nursing office and a written request for the loan
to Financial Aid. The request should include the nature of the need, the amount needed, and the
plan for repayment. The signed repayment plan should contain a statement that the student will be
expected to repay the loan by the end of the current academic year.
a. If the recipient of a loan withdraws from the nursing program, plans for earlier repayment
must be made.
b. Any uncollected loans are given to a collection agency. The account balance decreases by
the amount of the uncollected debt.
c. Any recovered debt by the collection agency can be returned to the fund (up to the original
loan).
d. An unpaid loan will be flagged on the student’s record and will prevent registration for
further courses unless arrangements for repayment are made with Financial Aid.
e. The Department of Nursing can forgive loans. The account balance decreases by the
amount of the forgiven debt(s).
f. Immediately upon approval of the loan, Financial Aid will give the student a voucher so
that loan funds can be obtained from the Student Center.
The Porcari Emergency Fund
Funds are available for students with demonstrated financial need. Additional information and applications
are available in the Department of Nursing Office. Decisions about the amount of the grant are made by
the Department of Nursing and the Porcari Fund Committee.
Electronic Communications
1. Students are required to use their MCC email address when communicating electronically with
college faculty and/or staff.
2. Social Media: Any statement made electronically which can cause actual or potential harm or
injury to another or to the school will be grounds for dismissal.
Policy Manual 2022 - 2023 | 21You can also read
