Blue Ridge Job Corps - blueridgeeducation.com · Web viewThe Blue Ridge Job Corps Practical Nursing Program frames its philosophy and programs within the theoretical structure of

Blue Ridge Job CorpsPractical Nursing Program

Student Handbook

Administered by the United States Department of Labor

Supplement to:Blue Ridge Job Corps

Student Handbook

Blue Ridge Practical Nurse Student Handbook Page 1

Revised June 24, 2011 Instructor Names: Deborah Payne, RN, BSN E-mail: [email protected] Melissa Blevins RN, BSN E-mail: [email protected]: 276-783-7221 Ext. #: 287

Monday-Friday (Week-Ends may be necessary for some clinical rotation)

Mission StatementThe Practical Nursing Program faculty is dedicated and caring professionals committed to providing students with a rewarding career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). We believe that practical nursing is a professional and essential part of nursing in which the practitioner, under the supervision of a qualified health professional, is expected to recognize and meet the health needs of individuals; and to serve with respect, compassion, and skill. The faculty accepts the responsibility of providing a planned program of instruction in which the student is prepared for entry-level members of the health care team, rendering patient care in a variety of health care settings, and strives to empower each individual student to develop the competencies, skills, and personal qualities needed for successful job performance. We recognize the need for continuous evaluation and revision of the curriculum to better meet the changing needs of society. The faculty also believes that learning is a life-long process. Graduates are encouraged to view nursing education as a continuum of educational preparation to nursing practice.

Vision StatementOur vision is to be a national model of excellence in the Job Corps. Community and to:

Guide students to develop recognition that nursing practice is comprised of nursing professionals, rather than merely routine technicians.

Promote a multicultural, humanistic nursing program that provides excellence in nursing education through the scholarship of teaching and learning.

PhilosophyIntroduction The Blue Ridge Job Corps Practical Nursing Program frames its philosophy and programs within the theoretical structure of Dorothea Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory. Orem identifies Self-Care Deficit Nursing as “a general theory of what nursing is and should be in concrete nursing practice situations” (Orem, 2001, p.136).The Practical Nursing Program’s philosophical definitions of person, environment, health, nursing and nursing education are infused with Orem’s terminology. Agency refers to an individual’s capabilities and is used in the context of both the nurse and patient.

Person A person has the actual or potential attribute of self-care agency. This agency, or capability, allows the person to deliberately learn and perform actions for survival, health and well-being. Factors affecting learning include age, mental capacity, culture, societal conditions, and a person’s developmental or emotional state. People dynamically move toward maturation and achievement of their full human potentials by integrating physical, psychological, interpersonal and social aspects of their lives. To do this they must reflect upon themselves and their environments and provide input into both self and environment. People use both symbols and


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words to express their ideas to communicate with others. People gather in groups or structured relationships. These relationships both define and support self-care. People have the power to act deliberately to identify their own and others’ needs. The way people meet self-care needs is not instinctual, but is a learned behavior. If any person is unable or unwilling to learn, others must learn for and or provide for that person’s self-care. Likewise, when a person has therapeutic self-care demands that he or she cannot meet, others with knowledge and skill must provide the means to meet those demands. If neither the person, the family nor a group to which the person belongs is able to supply therapeutic health care requisites, that person needs professional nursing care. (Orem, 2001)

Environment Environment is the domain in which people exist. The interaction between the environment and people affects health, well-being, growth and development positively or negatively throughout the life cycle. The reciprocal relationship between the person and environment is influenced by both internal and external factors. Internal factors include the biological, psychological and spiritual attributes of the person, while external factors comprise physical, chemical, socio-cultural, economic, political, legal, ethical, and organizational elements. The environment can be analyzed and understood. In some instances environment can even be regulated and controlled especially through community health efforts (Orem, 2001).

Health The term health is used to describe living things when they are structurally and functionally whole or sound. The physical, psychological, interpersonal and social aspects of health are inseparable in the individual. When “health” or “healthy” are used as descriptive terms for an individual, a judgment is being made on the basis of data about that person and his or her ability to maintain self-care. A person’s overall state of health is not necessarily modified by temporary changes in the state of wellness. The individual with an injury, for example would be considered injured and/or disabled, rather than sick or unhealthy, but would, for a short time require assistance with self-care. Ideally, health is the responsibility of both a society and its individual members and not of any one segment of that society.

Nursing“Nursing is a direct human service provided by a qualified person to help persons to continuously know and meet their own or their dependents’ therapeutic self-care demands and to regulate the exercise or development of their self-care or dependent-care agency whenever their limitations for action are associated with their own health states or that of their dependents” (Orem, 2001, pp. 517-518).Professional nursing rests upon the characteristics of nurse agency (communication, teaching, cultural competence, leadership, professional behavioral, legal understanding, professional technological skills) and is operationalized in the nursing systems of wholly compensatory, partially compensatory, and supportive-educative care. Nursing care is always tempered by the art and prudence of nursing. Art is the “intellectual quality . . . that allows . . . creative investigations, analysis, and synthesis” (Orem, p. 293). Prudence is selecting “the right reason about things to be done”; “a virtue of the mind and of the character of individuals” (p.293). “Art and prudence serve nurses in their performance of the interrelated operations of nursing practice” (p. 294).


Nursing care is based on professional standards, ethics, competencies and knowledge drawn from the natural, social, medical sciences, and the humanities, as well as nursing’s own body of knowledge. Professional nursing supports research and education to expand nursing knowledge and its use.

Nursing Education The Blue Ridge Job Corps Practical Nursing Program prepares to educate the practical nurse, a vital member of the health care team. Nursing education focuses on the development of nursing agency, the development of capabilities needed to provide professional nursing care. Education encompasses both teaching and learning. Learning is a deliberate and dynamic process characterized by the acquisition of knowledge, self-awareness, breadth and depth in critical thinking, and by cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills all of which change the behavior of the learner. Learning is an individualized process which occurs best when learner’s rights are respected and when the learner accepts responsibility for self-direction and for decisions. A learning environment nurtures the development of potential, promotes the maturation of values, cultivates the ability to think critically and independently, and encourages the spirit of inquiry. The outcome of learning is an enriched outlook, a new perspective. Learning is a shared responsibility. Teaching is a transaction involving both learner and teacher where the teacher acts as a facilitator, a role model and a resource person using multiple modes of instruction. Teachers guide the learner by developing, organizing, and structuring knowledge; by fostering a spirit of inquiry, a sense of discovery and a desire for life-long learning. The outcome of teaching is an enriched outlook, a new perspective. This Practical Nursing Program focuses on developing nursing agency through didactic and clinical experiences that prepares the Practical Nurse in both social and nursing sciences to do the following:

Determine when an individual is unable to meet their own self-care needs, identify those needs, and define a support modality and plan of care.

Assist individuals to understand and become active participants in their own self-care agency and better meet self-care needs.

Act as a role model, patient advocate and a caregiver providing care, restoring health, maintaining dignity and promoting wellness.

Work under the direction of the Registered Nurse and employs the nursing process to give safe and effective nursing care.

Learn benefits of forming partnerships with individuals, families, and communities to provide biographically relevant, culturally sensitive, evidence-based, and ethically appropriate health care services.

Pursue excellence in learning, promote collaboration in lifelong learning, and attain self-actualization, capable of initiating change and adapting to the rapidly changing environment.

FURTHER OBJECTIVESUnder direction of the Nursing Faculty, the graduates of the program shall be expected to:

1. Apply fundamental concepts of nursing and recognize the cultural and psycho-social aspects of health care in a changing society.

2. Perform basic assessment procedures and recognize adverse signs and symptoms.3. Establish and implement appropriate client/patient goals and evaluate progress.


4. Provide nursing interventions toward treatment of illness and injury, promoting physical, mental, environmental, spiritual and social wellness.

5. Document accurately the nursing process.6. Apply legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities to nursing practice.7. Communicate effectively with other members of the health care team.8. Apply principles of effective communication and establish therapeutic relationships

with clients/patients.9. Effectively use techniques of patient/client education.10. Understand scope of practice and know when and who to contact for assistance.11. Implement admission, transfer, and discharge procedures.12. Competent in providing client/patient assistance with ADLs13. Strengthen interest in and develop a sense of responsibility for individual health.14. Practice professional and personal relationships.15. Apply techniques of leadership and management.16. Obtain and maintain licensure to practice nursing according to state laws.17. Function effectively as a member of the health care team.18. Utilize community resources in maintaining a healthcare continuum.19. Seek continuous learning.

DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAMThe complete practical nursing program is 18 months in length and prepares students to qualify as entry level contributing members of the health care team, rendering patient/client care as practical nurses in a variety of health care facilities. Classroom hours: Monday through Friday. Clinical hours will vary according to instructional needs. A weekly schedule will consist of 3 days of classroom and 2 days of clinicals. Clinical days will vary depending on assignment by instructor (s). Students will be assigned homework and should be prepared for extensive outside classroom study time. At the successful completion of the program, students will be eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). Those passing are given a license by the Virginia State Board of Nursing, and can assume the title of Licensed Practical Nurse. Upon completion of program and prior to taking the State Board examination, the graduate shall use the designation “Licensed Practical Nurse Applicant” when signing hospital charts and records. Any applicant who fails the licensing examination shall not be authorized to practice nursing in Virginia. Assistance with reciprocity will be available in compliance with individual state requirements.

CURRICULUM PLANFirst Year Introduction to Health Care

Fundamentals of Nursing IMedical TerminologyAnatomy & PhysiologyPharmacologyNutrition/Diet Therapy

Second Year Fundamentals of Nursing IIMedication AdministrationMaternal/Newborn NursingChild Health Care


Gerontogical NursingMental Health/Psychiatric NursingMedical/Surgical Nursing

Addendum to Curriculum Plan as of March 3, 2008 (Revised Jan. 2009)1. Practical Nursing Instructors will teach two classes daily, each for 2 blocks.2. Medical Terminology will be self study with a 30 minute daily review between the

two classes. Tests/Quizzes will be given weekly as students are ready.3. Medical/Surgical Nursing will be at conclusion of other subjects.4. Assessment tests will be given each student at the completion of each subject area to

insure that students are ready to proceed to the next subject area. If the assessment indicates a deficiency (Level I), then the areas that are deficient will be reviewed and re-taught by the instructor. Students will be re-tested at completion of review. If proficiency Level II not achieved with the second test, removal from the program will be considered.

5. Arrangements for 2 day review will be made with Contemporary Health Systems for a comprehensive NCLEX Review.

6. Intensive in-class and on-line NCLEX review will be done on-center.

OCCUPATIONAL OBJECTIVES:Employment opportunities for the practical nurse include positions in the following areas:

Hospitals Clinics Nursing Homes Physician’s Offices Government Agencies Other health-related agencies

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTSMust meet Job Corps admission requirements in addition to the following:

Must be at least 17 years 6 Months of age Must have completed the Nurse Aide curriculum or other job corps approved medical

career technical training Must have passed the Nurse Aide state board exam or other appropriate state board exam Must have GED and/or a High School Diploma Must have a reading TABE of at least 600 on a “D” level Must have a math TABE of at least 600 on a “D” level Must have four letters of recommendation, one of which must be from the career

technical training instructor, one from the student’s career counselor, and one from the student employee personnel officer (SEPO). The fourth one can be from the student’s choice.

Must have a completed application form along with required documentation Must have current CPR and First Aid certification Completed health form with required immunizations (Hepatitis B) (will be required after

acceptance into the program) Cannot have a prior enrollment in job corps of more than 18 months


Undergo interview with program director and application committee Meet minimum acceptable scores on TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) entrance

exam For more information on this test, refer to the following web site:http://www.atitesting.com/global/students/teas.aspx

Once admitted to the program, all students will be on a provisional admittance for the first 60 days, and must continue to meet all program requirements in order to remain in the Practical Nursing Program.

Criminal background check-If you have ever been convicted of a criminal offense, either a misdemeanor or felony, you will be prohibited by our clinical affiliates in participating in the clinical experience. If the clinical site policy will not allow the student to enter their facility, the student will not be able to meet the requirements of the Program and will subsequently be dismissed

Each student must meet the clinical hour’s requirement for the Virginia State Board of Nursing, which is 400 clinical hours. If you reside in a state other than Virginia, and that board of nursing in that state requires more than 400 hours of clinicals, you would not be eligible to complete the LPN program at Blue Ridge. Please check with your board of nursing if you reside in a state other than Virginia to make sure you meet their criteria BEFORE applying to Blue Ridge.

No leisure time employment will be permitted while enrolled in the LPN Program

REFUSAL, REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION, CENSURE OR PROBATIONThe Virginia State Board of Nursing has the power to deny opportunity to procure license through testing, refuse to issue a license to any applicant and may suspend any license for a stated period or indefinitely, or revoke any license or censure or reprimand any licensee holder or place him/her on probation for such time as it designate for any of the following causes:

Fraud or deceit in procuring or attempting to procure a license Unprofessional conduct Conviction of any felony or any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude Practicing in a manner contrary to the standards of ethics or in such a manner as to make

his/her practice a danger to the health and welfare of patients or to the public Use of alcohol or drugs to the extent that such use renders him/her unsafe to practice, or

any mental or physical illness rendering him/her unsafe to practice The denial, revocation, suspension or restriction of a license to practice in another state,

the District of Columbia or a United States possession or territory Abuse, negligent practice, or misappropriation of a client/patient’s property

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF PRACTICAL NURSING STUDENTSQualified applicants are expected to meet these essential functions

FUNCTION ABILITYCATEGORY

REPRESENTATIVEACTIVITY/ATTRIBUTE

GROSS MOTOR SKILLS

GROSS MOTOR SKILLS(cont.)

Move within confined spacesSit and maintain balanceStand and maintain balanceReach above shoulders (e.g. IV poles)Reach below waist (e.g. plug electrical appliance into wall outlets)


http://www.atitesting.com/global/students/teas.aspx

FINE MOTOR SKILLS

Pick up objects with handsGrasp small objects with hands (e.g. IV tubing, pencil)Write with pencil or penKey/type (e.g. use a computer)Pinch/pick or otherwise work with fingers (e.g. manipulate a syringe)Twist (e.g. turn objects/knobs using hands)Squeeze with fingers (e.g. eye dropper)

PHYSICAL ENDURANCE

Stand (e.g. at client side during surgical or therapeutic procedure)Sustain repetitive movements (e.g. CPR)Maintain physical tolerance (e.g. work entire shift)

PHYSICAL STRENGTH

Push and pull 25 pounds (e.g. position clients)Support 25 pounds (e.g. ambulate client)Lift 25 pounds (e.g. pick up a child, transfer client)Move light objects weighing up to 10 pounds (e.g. IV poles)Move heavy objects weighing from 11 to 50 poundsDefend self against combative clientCarry equipment/suppliesUse upper body strength (e.g. perform CPR, physically restrain a client)Squeeze with hands (e.g. operate fire extinguisher)

MOBILITY

Twist or bendStoop/squatMove quickly (e.g. response to an emergency)Climb (e.g. ladders/stools/stairs)Walk

HEARING

Hear normal speaking level sounds (e.g. person-to-person report). Hear faint voicesHear faint body sounds (e.g. blood pressure sounds, assess placement of tubes)

Hear in situations when not able to see lips (e.g. when masks are used)Hear auditory alarms (e.g. monitors, fire alarms, call bells)

VISUALSee objects up to 20 inches away (e.g. information on a computer screen, skin conditions)See objects up to 20 feet away (e.g. client in a room)See objects more than 20 feet away (e.g. client at the end of hall)


VISUAL(cont.)

Use depth perceptionUse peripheral visionDistinguish colors (e.g. color codes on supplies, charts, bed)Distinguish color intensity (e.g. flushed skin, skin paleness)

TACTILE

Feel vibrations (e.g. palpate pulses)Detect temperature (e.g. skin temperature)Feel differences in surface characteristics (e.g. skin turgor, rashes)Feel differences in sizes, shapes (e.g. palpate vein, identify body landmarks)Detect environmental temperature (e.g. check for drafts)

SMELLDetect odors from client (e.g. foul smelling drainage, alcohol breath, etc.)Detect smokeDetect gases or noxious smells

READINGRead and understand written documents (e.g. policies, protocols)

ARITHMETIC COMPETENCE

Read and understand columns of writing (flow sheet, charts)Read digital displaysRead graphic printouts (e.g. EKG)Calibrate equipmentConvert numbers to and/or from the Metric SystemRead graphs (e.g. vital sign sheet)Tell timeMeasure time (e.g. count duration of contractions, etc.)Count rates (e.g. drips/minute, pulse)Use measuring tools (e.g. thermometer)Read measurement marks (e.g. measurement tapes, scales, syringes, etc.)Add, subtract, multiply, and/or divide whole numbersCompute fractions (e.g. medication dosages)Use a calculatorWrite numbers in records

EMOTIONAL STABILITY

EMOTIONAL STABILITY(cont.)

Establish therapeutic boundariesProvide client with emotional supportAdapt to changing environment/stressDeal with the unexpected (e.g. client going bad/dying, crisis)Focus attention on taskMonitor own emotions


Perform multiple responsibilities concurrentlyHandle strong emotions (e.g. grief)

ANALYTICAL THINKING

Transfer knowledge from one situation to anotherProcess informationEvaluate outcomesProblem solvePrioritize tasksUse long term memoryUse short term memory

CRITICAL THINKING

Identify cause-effect relationshipsPlan/control activities for othersSynthesize knowledge and skillsSequence information

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

Negotiate interpersonal conflictRespect differences in clientsEstablish rapport with clientsEstablish rapport with co-workers

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Teach (e.g. client/family about health care)Explain proceduresGive oral reports (e.g. report on client’s condition to others)Interact with others (e.g. health care workers)Speak on the telephoneInfluence peopleDirect activities of othersConvey information through writing (e.g. progress notes)

*Adapted from Validation Study: “Functional Abilities Essential for Nursing Practice, National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. 1996

CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS (Sequence may vary)FIRST YEAR:Course Title: INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH CARECOURSE DESCRIPTION: This course focuses on the progression from student to leader within the nursing environment, and helps the student recognize that dramatic and constant change occurring in Practical Nursing requires working effectively and efficiently together with others in the health care environment for the good of the patient. In order to accomplish the goal of being successful in Practical Nursing, the student must recognize and demonstrate: skills for learning; understand self; understanding and retaining information; communication in the work place; understanding history of nursing; basic elements in the health care environment; making decisions; handling everyday stresses of nursing care; importance of caring for self in order to care effectively for patients; how to use learning resources and increase knowledge; and lastly, how to find a job and advance in the nursing profession.


Course Title: FUNDAMENTALS OF NURSING I (Chapters 1 through 24)COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course incorporates aspects of nursing in all major settings in which LPN’s are employed: hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, physicians’ offices, and home care agencies. It teaches: all basic concepts and fundamental skills that an LPN needs in current practice, focusing on the patient as a consumer of health care with psychosocial as well as physical needs; use of critical thinking as a tool for learning, problem solving, and developing clinical judgment; communication as an essential tool for the art and practice of nursing; collaboration with other health care workers; use of delegation to provide coordinated, cost-effective patient care; patient teaching for maintenance of wellness; and promotion of self-care.

Course Title: NUTRITION/DIET THERAPYCOURSE DESCRIPTION: This course introduces basic principles of scientific nutrition and present applications in person-centered care in preparing caretakers to be alert to nutritional news and questions raised by the increasingly diverse clients and patients. Information will assist in developing a strong team approach to clinical problems in patient care. Instead of primarily focusing on nutrition in the treatment of disease, emphasis is based upon an expanding search for disease prevention and general enhancement of life through nutrition. With information from this text, potential health care workers will have an introductory knowledge of sound information clients need to deal with communication misinformation, and fads, and to assist them in becoming more involved in their own health care.

Course Title: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGYCOURSE DESCRIPTION: Structure and Function of the Body is designed as an introductory course to describe the healthy body, to prepare the practical nursing student for successful application of information in a practical, work-related environment. The course presents basic concepts of human structure and function by applying these concepts in practical ways to current problems in public health, athletes and fitness. New to this edition is a collection of Science Applications that feature possible career paths that use concepts taught by the instructor to stimulate students to think about their own career choices.

Course Title: MEDICAL TERMINOLOGYCOURSE DESCRIPTION: (Self-Study) This course shoes the student how to analyze and understand the meanings of medical terms by breaking them down into smaller word parts, explaining terms in the context of how the body works. Extensive hands-on practice, repetition, and case studies help the student learn by doing---writing terms, labeling diagrams, and completing comprehensive, practical exercises and teaches the student how to study. A companion student CD-ROM includes interactive exercises, video clips, and pronunciation of more than 3,000 terms. This course includes explanations of clinical procedures, laboratory tests, terminology, abbreviations related to each body system, plus included information pertaining to Cancer Medicine, Radiology, Pharmacology, and Psychiatry. Course Title: PHARMACOLOGYCOURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is designed as an introductory course for beginning students, providing basic information relevant to the safe preparation and administration of medication prescribed by the physician in accordance with the law, agency policy, and nursing


standards. A comprehensive review of math and the basics of calculating drug dosage provide a solid foundation for safe medication administration.SECOND YEAR: Course Title: FUNDAMENTALS OF NURSING II (Chapters 25 through 41)COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course incorporates aspects of nursing in all major settings in which LPN’s are employed: hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, physicians’ offices, and home care agencies. It teaches: all basic concepts and fundamental skills that an LPN needs in current practice, focusing on the patient as a consumer of health care with psychosocial as well as physical needs; use of critical thinking as a tool for learning, problem solving, and developing clinical judgment; communication as an essential tool for the art and practice of nursing; collaboration with other health care workers; use of delegation to provide coordinated, cost-effective patient care; patient teaching for maintenance of wellness; and promotion of self-care.

Course Title: MEDICAL/SURGICAL NURSINGCOURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is designed to provide practical nursing students with comprehensive coverage of nursing care, organized using the steps of the nursing process, of adults with disorders requiring medical, surgical, and psychiatric management, emphasizing patient and family teaching; with introduction to critical thinking; an expanded coverage of management skills; nursing practice in non-acute settings; and phonetic pronunciations of terms used in each chapter.

Course Title: MEDICATION ADMINISTRATIONCOURSE DESCRIPTION: This course: provides a comprehensive application of calculations in nursing practice, in general patient areas, and in specialty areas such as: pediatrics, pediatric critical care, adult critical care, labor & delivery, and community nursing; focuses on inter-relationship between calculations and drug administration such as in use of insulin pumps, patient-controlled analgesia pumps, multi-channel infusion pumps, in use of various new syringes, and with computer-based medication administration; includes basic math review, reading drug labels, drug orders & abbreviations, calculation of drug & fluid dosages for oral, injectable, and intravenous administration, charting, and alternative methods for drug administration. Hands-on supervised clinicals will be required as part of this course. Course Title: MATERNAL/NEWBORN AND CHILD HEALTH NURSINGCOURSE DESCRIPTION: Using the systems approach, this course places emphasis on how infants and children differ on basis of anatomical, physiological, and psychological differences, and how techniques of care are specific. From conception to adulthood, information is focused toward family-centered care, wellness, health promotion & illness prevention, women’s health issues, and normal processes of growth and development of child and parent. Diverse cultural health care practices related to maternity and pediatric care, alternatives to traditional medicine, nursing care plans, phonetic pronunciations of terms, patient teaching, and maternal and pediatric specific skills are included in order to prepare students in providing quality obstetrical and pediatric nursing care to a diverse population in a variety of settings.

Course Title: GERONTOGICAL NURSINGCOURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is a study of all aspects of the aging process, including clinical, psychological, economic, and sociological problems of older adults, the consequences of


these problems on society, and how these problems affect nursing, health care, housing, education, business, and politics. Information is presented on ways to promote high level functioning, and ways to promote care and comfort for the older adult. It examines trends and issues that affect the older person’s ability to remain healthy; explores theories and myths of aging; normal changes of aging in each body system; pathologic conditions commonly observed; effective communication specific for the older adult; general methods used to assess health status and functional needs; most common nursing diagnoses and nursing interventions associated with the aging adult; and the impact of medication and medication administration

Course Title: MENTAL HEALTH/PSYCHIATRIC NURSINGCOURSE DESCRIPTION: This course presents the evolution of care for persons with mental problems from primitive to current times with holistic approaches to care. Included are: selected ethical and legal issues, social and cultural issues relating to mental health care; community mental health care is explained, along with theories of mental illness, psychotherapeutic drug therapy and skills necessary for working with clients; eight principles of mental health care with application to the therapeutic environment and effective communication techniques; encourages student self-awareness and development of introspection, necessary for working with people who have behavioral difficulties; characteristics of basic human needs, personality development, stress, anxiety, crisis, and coping behaviors help students understand behaviors common to all; helps develop basic mental health assessment skills; explains growth of normal mental health behaviors along with maladaptive behaviors during each stage of life, with focus on ways mental/emotional health is interwoven with physical health. Common mental health problems, social concerns, and cultural aspects of mental health are presented with emphasis on therapeutic care and treatments.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF COURSE:Attendance:

Class attendance is essential to your success in the program. Class participation is part of your grade. If you are absent, tardy, or leave class early, points will be taken away from your grade, and it will be the students’ responsibility to obtain any missed material/information presented in class. Information presented in class will be essential in the care of clients, and could mean the difference between life and death. Tardy/Absence Policy will be according to Job Corps Behavior Management standards and are as follows:

5-10 minutes tardy-Incident Report and $1 fine10-15 minutes tardy-Incident Report and $2 fine16 minutes tardy or an unexcused absence from any class period-Incident Report and $5 fine

Excessive tardiness and absences will result in a meeting with the program director; will have an adverse effect on your grade; will be sanctioned according to Job Corps policies as described in student handbook and can include expulsion from the PN program.

Personal leave will be approved only in an emergency and at the discretion of the program director.

Students may appeal to the program director if they feel their attendance was miscalculated.


Each course in the Practical Nurse Program builds upon each other and students must complete all requirements in each course.

Knowledge and skills:

Scholastic rating of students will be determined through quizzes, unit tests, examinations, reports, projects, class presentations, class participation, laboratory assignments, homework assignments, and clinical performance.

All assignments must be completed and turned in on time. A final grade of 80% is required to pass all classes in the Practical Nursing Program.

Make-up Standards: (In addition to Job Corps requirements) Students are responsible to obtain/learn any material covered during an absence. Official documentation explaining need for absence will be required/presented to

program director before permission will be granted to make up missed homework/tests. Official documentation must be written on company stationary and signed and may

include, but not limited to: doctor’s notes, and funeral notices. All documentation will be verified with the author by the program director. The program director will review documentation other than those mentioned.

Tests and homework missed without official documentation will be scored as a zero (0) Make-up work will not substitute as hours of class attendance Students who do not take a test or turn in assignments at the regularly scheduled time

may be given a different test or be given additional assignments at the instructor’s discretion.

Make-up exams must be scheduled at the instructor’s convenience. If make-up exams are not scheduled with the instructor within two weeks of returning to

class, the student will forego the opportunity to take exam. Homework assignments will be re-assigned upon student’s return to class, and upon

verification of absence documentation.

Required Study Time: Study time may be set-aside during regular classroom hours; HOWEVER, outside study

is required for successful completion of required course assignments. The amount of study time needed will vary according to the individual student’s abilities Student is responsible for any study materials assigned by instructor(s). Tests will include information from any assignments, lectures, homework, and skills

demonstrated/discussed in skills & clinical lab settings.

Tutoring: It is very important to evaluate your own needs and ask for help before your grades

drop below what is required. Students who need assistance may arrange tutoring upon approval from the program

director.

Dress Code/Personal Grooming Standards:


Students will abide by the Department of Labor Regional Dress Code addressed in the job corps student handbook. Specific requirements for the Practical Nursing Program (in addition to Regional Dress Code)

Headgear is unacceptable in the classroom. Headgear includes: hats, skullcaps, do-rags, headbands, scarves, earphones, cell phone earplugs, headphones, or anything else that may cover the head.

Due to infection control/safety concerns, jewelry will be limited to a small ring with special meaning or a wedding band, one set of stud earrings (one earring per ear), and a wristwatch with a second hand for either males or females. No bracelets or necklaces will be allowed.

Additionally, because of infection control reasons, no visible body piercings (other than one earring per ear) will be allowed in the classroom or on the clinical settings. Tongue rings, eyebrow, lip, nose, numerous ear piercings & all other piercings must be removed when coming to class or attending clinicals.

You must be dressed appropriately for the classroom and lab/clinical setting1. Job Corps academic uniforms, neat, clean, and pressed, will be worn in the

classroom. 2. Vocational uniforms, (clean, neat, and pressed) which include matching top &

scrub pants, a warm-up jacket as issued, together with white shoes, and white watch with second hand, will be worn to clinical settings as designated by instructor(s).

3. Students may wear a long sleeved turtleneck under vocational uniform if needed for warmth.

Students are required to follow standards for nursing professionals. This includes daily showers, clean hair, hairstyles including long hair and braids must be kept neat and well groomed. Hair color outside the natural hair color spectrum will not be allowed, example: Red, Blue, Burgundy, etc. Mustaches and beards must be clean, and well groomed. Hairstyles that are considered inappropriate for employability are prohibited.

Nails must be clean, without nail polish, and no longer than the tips of your fingers. Acrylic nails are prohibited due to infection control concerns.

Some clients are allergic to perfumes and colognes. During clinical rotations, students are NOT to wear perfumes or colognes.

Classroom rules: Use of cell phones in class is not allowed. Bring all materials/equipment to class. Students must be in their seats and ready to work when class starts. Only one person speaks at a time. Everyone will be courteous to others/show respect and listen to others. No eating in class Drinks with closable tops may be brought into classroom area NOT allowed in computer

or skills lab

*For all additional policies, and consequences for violations of policies, refer to the Job Corps Student HandbookACADEMIC DISHONESTY AND PLAGIARISM


Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to: cheating; giving or receiving aid on an examination; having unauthorized prior knowledge of an examination; doing work for another student; copying another student’s work and presenting it as your work; fabrication (lying); and plagiarism. Plagiarism is to take ideas, writings, etc. from another and offer them as one’s own (according to Webster’s dictionary). Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to:

Using phrases, charts, illustrations, figures, mathematical or scientific solutions without citing the source

Copying verbatim all or part of another’s written work Paraphrasing ideas, conclusions, or research without citing source

To avoid plagiarism, carefully follow accepted academic practices: Accurately cite your notes taken for research papers/projects, if you quote, paraphrase, or summarize another’s work; and acknowledge sources in references when doing research projects or papers. If a student is found to have committed academic dishonesty or plagiarism, the instructor will notify the program director of the alleged violation. The student will be given the opportunity to defend their conduct. Upon verification of a violation, the student will be referred to the Center Standards Officer; potential sanctions may include a zero (0) or a grade of F on the work in question, up to and including dismissal from the program. A student may appeal the academic dishonesty or plagiarism violation by following the steps outlined in the Student Handbook under the section Student Grievance Policy.

Use of Illegal Drugs, Alcohol, or Mind Altering SubstancesPractical Nursing students will be assigned clients to care for throughout the entirety of the program. The use of alcohol or any other mind altering substance will place client safety in jeopardy, and upon receiving licensure; use of these substances is grounds for revoking the nursing license. Blue Ridge Job Corps has a Zero Tolerance Policy for alcohol and other drugs. We are dedicated to providing students with an alcohol drug free learning environment as well as instilling an alcohol and other drug free work ethic. Students will be tested for drugs upon arrival to Center. Positive tests will result in immediate dismissal. During enrollment in program, upon demonstration of suspicious behavior, students are required to provide a fluid sample (urine or blood at the discretion of the Trainee Employee Assistance Program Director). Failure to supply requested sample will be judged as a positive result, and student will be terminated from the program. Students taking prescribed narcotics for short-term use will not be allowed to attend clinicals. Students should make alternative arrangements with the program director.

SAFETY RULES: Students MUST follow ALL directions given by the instructor(s) Visiting clients during clinical time is allowed only with permission of the instructor(s).

Students are not permitted in the client/patient areas of the facility except where assigned for clinical experience or with special permission.

Should the student become injured while performing clinical experience at clinical sites, the instructor should be notified. Incident reports will be filed according to facility policy. The specific clinical site will not cover costs of injuries or accidents sustained during clinical time, but will be the responsibility of Blue Ridge Job Corps Center. In the event of a Blood or Body Fluid exposure, the clinical facility will provide testing of the source, if known, and depending upon the out-come, will provide initial testing of the student. Follow-up testing will be the responsibility of Blue Ridge Job Corps Center.


Failure to follow instructions will result in dismissal from the classroom and possibly from the program.

TELEPHONE CALLSOnly emergency calls will be allowed for the student. Please inform all friends, family, and employees of this fact. No cell phones allowed on clinical rotations. Please instruct your family in case of emergency, someone should call classroom or clinical site and ask for your instructor. The instructor will relay the message to the student. Clinical facility telephones are NOT to be used for personal calls.

CLIENT CONFIDENTIALITYStudents are reminded that client/patient confidentiality is the LEGAL RIGHT of each client/patient. Students should not discuss clients except with appropriate individuals. To do so makes the student subject to dismissal. Because client cases may be discussed in class, no tape recorders will be allowed in class.

METHOD/CRITERIA OF EVALUATING STUDENTS: Mandatory class attendance A student must receive a grade of “C” in each nursing course in order to continue in the

Practical Nursing Program, to receive a cap, to go to clinicals, and to take State Board exams.

Student must demonstrate satisfactory performance in nursing skills and demonstrate satisfactory attitudes necessary for functioning as a member of a health care team.

Students receive grades based upon the following general formula:o 10% Out of Class Assignmentso 40% Tests/Quizzeso 10% Mid-Term Examinationso 10% Final Examinationso 20% Assessments (when applicable)o 10%Clinical Assessment (Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory)

*when assessments not applicable, Mid-Term & Final exams will be 20%*Addendum: The above formula will be subject to change with some courses. Students will receive Syllabus outlining course requirements, required text reading, with grade point break-down on first day of each new course. Textbooks will be distributed four (4) weeks in advance of beginning new course, providing availability of textbooks.

Grading Scale:93-100 A I=Incomplete92-87 B P=Pass80-86 C S=Satisfactory75-79 D U=Unsatisfactory

On the Road to Success:


You have started on a journey toward a better future….a future that will bring more money, security, and greater career satisfaction. All of us at Blur Ridge Job Corps will do everything we can to make that journey a rewarding one. There may be times when you find it hard going….maybe your family or friends are demanding more of your time, taking away your concentration, or completing this program seems too far out of reach. If you start to feel that way, just remember these important facts:

A good way to stay motivated is to remember why you enrolled into this program. You have goals and a dream of building a better way of life for yourself, and you have already shown you have the dedication to make that dream come true. Don’t let anything or anyone stop you from achieving your goals and dreams.

Anytime you have a problem or question about something in your lessons or assignments, contact your instructor (s) or the Program Director. Every student is important to us…we want to see you achieve success. Your success is our success!

Stick to your study schedule as much as you can…but it’s okay to give yourself a day off now and then. Just don’t take too many!

Most of all, take pride in what you are accomplishing. So many people never try to make their dreams come true….just by enrolling in this program and, meeting the requirements, you have shown you are someone who sets goals and works to achieve them. You have much to be proud of!

Good Luck from all of us at Blue Ridge Job Corps!


Documents

Blue Ridge Job Corps - blueridgeeducation.com · Web viewThe Blue Ridge Job Corps Practical Nursing Program frames its philosophy and programs within the theoretical structure of