MSOE SCHOOL OF NURSING

UNDERGRADUATE
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Student Handbook
FINAL
2016 2017
Accredited by the
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

File path: BOX/SON- All Faculty/HANDBOOK_BSN STUDENT

Welcome to the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) School of Nursing (SON)

This handbook is prepared as a means to inform you of SON policies and procedures and share
information regarding the SON program. In the following pages, you will find policies, procedures,
and guidelines to follow during your time at MSOE. This information supplements information found
in the MSOE Undergraduate Academic Catalog and the MSOE Student Conduct Code. In addition,
once you start clinical you will have access to the Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS)
site SON Nursing Program, Lab, and Clinical Resources (Student and Faculty). It is your
responsibility as a MSOE nursing student to be aware of and adhere to the policies and procedures in
these publications, this handbook, and the information on the Blackboard SON Nursing Program,
Lab, and Clinical Resources (Student and Faculty).
Any changes to policy and procedures within this handbook and/or changes to clinical agency
requirements that take effect during the academic year will be communicated to students via MSOE
student email. Students are expected to comply with these additional changes.
Nursing faculty review and update this handbook on a yearly basis. Review of this handbook with all
new nursing students occurs at the yearly mandatory new student orientation meeting. In addition,
continuing nursing students are required to review this handbook on a yearly basis. Documentation
of this review is required (form on following page).
Please, if you have any questions, contact any of the MSOE SON Faculty
The Faculty of the MSOE SON

Major Changes to Handbook for 2016-2017

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Student Success Program

Senior Portfolio
Professional Practice Project (PPP)
Preceptorship
Testing environment
Castle Branch (vendor for clinical requirements)
Student Learning Contract
NCLEX RN predictor Exam cut point for 2 credit course
The Essential of Baccalaureate Education

MSOE SON YEARLY SIGN OFF FORM (2016-2017)

Student ID #:__________________ Student Name (Please print legibly)_______________
1. Annual Review of MSOE SON Student Handbook
2. Updates to Background Checks
SON Student Handbook
I have reviewed the 2016-2017 version of the SON Student Handbook and agree to comply
with all policies and procedures. I recognize that violation of these policies may result in
dismissal from the program.

Students Signature

Date

Changes in Background Checks

Background checks are done on all nursing students at MSOE and positive findings are
reported to clinical agencies. Students must report subsequent arrests and convictions to the
SON Chair in a timely manner. On an annual basis, students will verify that there have been no
additional arrests or convictions. Final decisions about clinical placement are made by each
clinical agency.
I have no changes to report from my last completion of the Background Information
Disclosure Form.

Students Signature

Date

Print this page, sign, scan, and upload to CastleBranch in Handbook

Acknowledgment

MSOE SON STUDENT HANDBOOK

I.

SCHOOL OF NURSING FACULTY ................................................................................................ 7

II. HISTORY OF THE MSOE SCHOOL OF NURSING .................................................................... 7

III. OVERVIEW OF PROGRAM ........................................................................................................... 9
A.
B.
C.
D.

E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.

Vision........................................................................................................................................................... 9
Mission........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Philosophy................................................................................................................................................. 9
Organizing Framework ..................................................................................................................... 10
1. Pervasive Themes ....................................................................................................................... 10
2. Progressive Themes ................................................................................................................... 10
3. Faculty Conceptualization of Client and Nursing ........................................................... 11
Alignment SON Goals a with B.S. in Nursing Student Program and Level Outcomes 12
Program and Level Outcomes......................................................................................................... 13
Curriculum Description .................................................................................................................... 13
1. B.S. in Nursing - Traditional Track ....................................................................................... 13
2. B.S. in Nursing - Accelerated Second Degree Track ....................................................... 13
Additional Academic Requirements ............................................................................................ 14
1. Academic progression (Traditional and Accelerated second degree) ................... 14
2. Academic Dismissal SON ...................................................................................................... 15
Petition for Senior Student to Graduate Quarter Early ........................................................ 15
Special Testing Accommodations ................................................................................................. 15
Academic Advising .............................................................................................................................. 15
1. Advisee Responsibilities .......................................................................................................... 15
2. Advisor Responsibilities........................................................................................................... 16
Academic Difficulty / Incompletes ............................................................................................... 16
1. Nursing Student Success Program ....................................................................................... 16
Student Progression - Appeal Process ........................................................................................ 17

IV. COURSE SYLLABI AND COURSE CONTENT .......................................................................... 18

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.

APA Format ............................................................................................................................................ 18

Senior Portfolio .................................................................................................................................... 18
Professional Practice Project .......................................................................................................... 18
Preceptorship........................................................................................................................................ 18
Test/Exam Review .............................................................................................................................. 18
Testing Environment Guideline for Classroom Testing .................................................... 18
Test/Exam Grading ............................................................................................................................. 19
Learning Management System (LMS) ......................................................................................... 19

V. CLINICAL REQUIREMENTS........................................................................................................ 21
A.
B.
C.
D.

Health Insurance and Health Status ............................................................................................. 21

Background Checks ............................................................................................................................ 21
Social Security Release ...................................................................................................................... 22
Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification ......................................................................................... 22
4

E.
F.
G.

Student Handbook Acknowledgement Annually ................................................................. 22

Annual Safety Education ................................................................................................................... 22
CastleBranch - Directions on Use .................................................................................................. 22

VI. STUDENT CLINICAL AND PERSONAL HEALTH CONDITION POLICIES ....................... 25

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
O.
P.

Administrative Withdrawal - Noncompliance with Clinical and Health Criteria ....... 25

Students with Personal Health Condition(s) ............................................................................ 25
Student Injury, Needle Stick, or Exposure to Bodily Fluids Policy ................................... 25
Safe Practice in Clinical and Lab .................................................................................................... 25
Learning Contract................................................................................................................................ 26
Agency Orientation ............................................................................................................................. 26
Psychomotor Skills Portfolio........................................................................................................... 26
Personal Expenses .............................................................................................................................. 27
Evaluation of Clinical Experience .................................................................................................. 27
Work Status ........................................................................................................................................... 27
Fee for Clinical Make-Up ................................................................................................................... 27
Transportation ..................................................................................................................................... 27
Cellular/Mobile Phones .................................................................................................................... 27
Community Experience Safeguards ............................................................................................. 27
Confidentiality of Client/Patient Records and Information ............................................... 28
Medication Administration.............................................................................................................. 28

VII. RUEHLOW NURSING COMPLEX ............................................................................................... 29

A.
B.

Philosophy of Teaching in a Lab and/or Simulated Environment ................................... 29

Lab Policies and Procedures ........................................................................................................... 29
1. Invasive Procedures................................................................................................................... 29
2. Needle Safety ................................................................................................................................ 29
3. Lab Access ...................................................................................................................................... 30
4. Lockers ............................................................................................................................................ 30
5. Lab Supplies .................................................................................................................................. 30
6. Lab Management Plan (LMP) ................................................................................................. 30
7. Lab Usage and Interaction with Lab Coordinators ........................................................ 30
8. Lab Supplies and Equipment Checkout - Student .......................................................... 31

VIII.

UNIFORM POLICY ................................................................................................................... 32

IX. STUDENT CONDUCT.................................................................................................................... 33

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.

Student Conduct Code ....................................................................................................................... 33

Ethical and Professional Behavior ................................................................................................ 33
Student Conduct Leading to Dismissal from Clinical or Lab............................................... 34
Timeliness .............................................................................................................................................. 34
Professional Behavior of Students Report Form..................................................................... 34
Social Media Guidelines .................................................................................................................... 35

X. STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ..................................................................................................... 37

A.
B.

National Student Nurses Association (NSNA) .......................................................................... 37

Nurses for Nurses ................................................................................................................................ 37
5

C.

Nursing Honor Society ...................................................................................................................... 37

XI. DEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEES ............................................................................................. 38

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.

Curriculum Committee ...................................................................................................................... 38

Faculty Committee .............................................................................................................................. 38
Laboratory Committee ...................................................................................................................... 38
Evaluation Assessment (EA) Committee .................................................................................... 38
Student Advisory Committees:....................................................................................................... 38

XII. DEPARTMENTAL ACTIVITIES AND AWARDS ..................................................................... 39

A.
B.
C.

Pinning and/or Achievement Ceremony.................................................................................... 39

Nursing Student Leadership Award ............................................................................................. 39
Bridging Ceremony ............................................................................................................................. 39

XIII.

NCLEX LICENSURE EXAM - PREPARATION .................................................................... 40

A.
B.
C.

NCLEX Registration Process and Information ......................................................................... 40

NCLEX Review Course ....................................................................................................................... 40
NCLEX ATI RN Comprehensive Predictor Exam ................................................................. 40

XIV.

REFERENCES............................................................................................................................. 42

XV. APPENDICES .................................................................................................................................. 43

Appendix A The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education (AACN, 2008) ............................... 43
Appendix B Petition for Senior Student to Graduate Quarter Early ..................................... 44
Appendix C Professional Practice Project Flowchart.................................................................. 47
Appendix D MSOE Drug Testing Policy ............................................................................................ 48
Appendix E - Student Injury, Needle Stick, or Exposure to Bodily Fluids .............................. 51
Appendix F Professional Behavior of Student Report Form .................................................... 54
Appendix G - Medication Administration Policy .............................................................................. 56

I.

School Of Nursing Faculty

List of SON faculty and contact information is available on the MSOE website Faculty
Directory

II.

History of the MSOE School of Nursing

The Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) School of Nursing (SON) was established in
1995. The school is proud to carry on the tradition of over one hundred years of excellence
in nursing education, professional leadership and holistic care demonstrated by graduates
of the Milwaukee County Medical Complex (MCMC) nursing program.
The Milwaukee County Training SON was officially established in 1888. The first class of 13
students graduated in 1889. The diploma program quickly expanded to two year, and then,
three years in 1903. The students took classes at and lived on the County grounds.
athe 1980s and 90s, Milwaukee County economics, politics and trends in nursing education
changed dramatically. The Milwaukee County Board considered closing the School several
times, and finally mandated closure of the program and the County Hospital in 1995. The
MCMC SON graduated its last class in 1997. Over its long history, the School graduated
approximately 4,000 nurses.
In 1995, the MCMC SON faculty elected to continue the schools long tradition of excellence
in nursing education. Led by Director Patricia Haselbeck, the SON searched for a local
university to affiliate with in order to develop a new baccalaureate program in nursing.
MSOE President Dr. Hermann Viets believed a new baccalaureate nursing program would
complement the biomedical engineering program and the colleges emphasis on technology
and extensive laboratory experiences (Langill, 2003). Recognizing his vision, the MSOE
Regents agreed to buy the County program. Guided by the leadership of Dr. Mary Louise
Brown, the first MSOE SON chairperson, and Patricia Haselbeck, the MSMC SON faculty
developed the current baccalaureate program, which integrates technology into the art and
science of nursing, while continuing to incorporate caring, a key component of nursing
practice. The first class of eleven students graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
in 1999. The program received initial accreditation from the Commission for Collegiate
Nursing Education in 1999, and was reaccredited in 2004 (Goltermann, Leifer, & Peterson,
2003) and again in 2014.
In September 2013, the accelerated second-degree BSN track was launched. This track is
designed for students with prior earned BS/BA degrees.
In September of 2014, the MSN-Health Care Systems Management program was launched.
The program is a blend of nursing and business concepts designed to meet the need of
nurses seeking a role in leadership and/or management.
The MSOE SON is proud of its heritage. The current MSOE SON pin and logo were designed
to incorporate elements of the original 1896, Milwaukee County General Hospital (MCGH)
SON pin. The MCMC SON archive became part of the MSOE archive and is stored in the
7

MSOE Library (Goltermann, Shimek, & Leifer, 2006). It contains numerous artifacts and
documents related to the schools history. MSOE has always recognized the graduates of
the MCMC SON as alumni. The MCGH Alumni Association merged with the MSOE alumni
association in 2007. A Homecoming event is held annually, uniting graduates of both
nursing programs.
The MSOE SON has progressed from teaching hygiene and nursing arts to educating
students about the use of state of the art technology and evidence based practice of
nursing science. It will continue to provide excellent nursing education that meets that
needs the future generations.
*The name of the school later changed to Milwaukee County Medical Complex SON (MCMC
SON)
Sherrill Leifer, Ph.D., RN, Associate Professor, MSOE SON, 2010 Updated Sept 2014.
References
Goltermann, J., Leifer, S., & Peterson, K. (2003). 100+ years of excellence in nursing
education. Unpublished centennial display, Milwaukee School of Engineering,
Milwaukee, WI
Goltermann, J., Shimek, G., & Leifer, S. (2006). Forging the future to preserve the past: The
evolution of a nursing archive. Poster presentation at the American Association for the
History of Nursing Conference, Rochester, MN.
Weihing, B.J. (Ed.). (1988). The Centennial History of Milwaukee County Medical Complex
SON, 1888-1988. Milwaukee, WI: Milwaukee County Medical Complex SON.

III.

Overview of Program
A. Vision
The MSOE School of Nursing aspires to excellence in educating nurses who impact
society as expert practitioners, leaders, and scholars.
B. Mission
The mission of the School of Nursing is to provide a program that educates its graduates
to address the diagnosis and treatment of human responses to health states. It does this
through the integration of technology into nursing practice, with the goal of improving
the health of society.
The School of Nursing builds on these concepts to help graduates develop the
knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to provide safe, effective, high quality clientcentered care as members of a complex, continually evolving health care system.
C. Philosophy
The philosophy of the MSOE School of Nursing is derived from the collective beliefs of
the faculty about key concepts. These concepts include: person, environment, health,
wellness, nursing, education, and technology. These concepts are at the heart of nursing
education and practice, and guide the development of the knowledge, skills, and
attitudes needed by nurses to provide safe, effective, high quality client-centered care
as members of complex, continually evolving health care systems.

Person refers to the recipients of nursing care; this can be an individual, family, or
community of persons who are health care consumers. Person is a sentient,
irreducible whole who is more than the sum of his or her parts. Persons are active
participants in their health who continually grow and evolve over the course of a
lifetime. In the remainder of this document, the word client is used to denote
person. Client always refers to the collective individual, family, and community.
Environment is the dynamic context in which persons frame their lives. The
interaction between person and environment shapes the health and experiences
between environment and individuals, families and communities.
Health is a continuum that extends from a state in which processes are highly
compatible with life to a state in which processes are incompatible with life. At any
given time, a persons health can be seen as a state occurring along this continuum. A
persons health state is co-created and defined by persons as they interact with their
environment.
Wellness is a state uniquely defined by each person. Based on both personal and
cultural factors, it is influenced by and involves integration with the persons state of
health, but it is not synonymous with health. It is the primary determinant of the
extent that the person is motivated to interact with nursing.
Nursing is a profession that is both an art and a science. The science of nursing is an
organized body of knowledge arrived at by scientific research and logical analysis. The
art of nursing is the creative use of the science of nursing for human betterment
9

mediated by professional, personal, aesthetic, and ethical human care experiences.

The curriculum of the SON is guided by American Nurses Association (ANA)
standards, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of
Baccalaureate Nursing Education, the ANA Code of Ethics, and current evidence.
Education is a process that involves the active exchange of knowledge. The faculty
foster learning through faculty-student relationships. Students are active participants
who reflect upon and assume accountability and responsibility for their learning. The
student is empowered to build a foundation for life-long learning that incorporates
flexibility, creativity, and the ability to function in a complex society. Students are
socialized to the complex role of professional nursing through a variety of
experiences in classroom, clinical, lab, and simulation activities.
Technology is the use of health information technology, knowledge technology and
biomedical technology to improve the quality and efficacy of client care. Technology
is an important part of both nursing practice and the educational process.
Originated 7/96
Revised: 6/98, 8/07, 6/10, 8/11

D. Organizing Framework
The MSOE nursing curriculum is based on general systems theory. The curriculum is
organized around progressive and pervasive themes to guide the educational
experience as students learn to care for clients across the lifespan with increasing
complexity across a variety of clinical experiences. Pervasive themes are unifying points
that are present in all nursing courses across the curriculum. Progressive themes are
curricular threads that support the development of the knowledge, skills and attitudes
needed to practice as professional and competent nurses.
1. Pervasive Themes

Clients are individuals, families, and communities who engage in

partnerships with nurses to evolve and change along the lifespan. They
interact with nurses in a multitude of environments, primarily around the
needs that concern their own personal definition of health and wellness.
Nursing process is the scientific process that nurses use to diagnose and
treat human responses to actual or potential health problems. It is
premised on the belief that clients are unique beings who are capable of
actively participating in their health. Functional health patterns and
nursing diagnoses (Gordon, 2000), as developed through the work of the
North American Nursing Diagnosis Association, are used to organize,
describe, and understand the clients response to health states.

2. Progressive Themes

Health and wellness are introduced simultaneously with an emphasis on

health promotion, illness prevention, and health maintenance. As
students move through the curriculum, they progress from a focus on
care of healthy clients to those with chronic, complex health challenges,
10

including end-of-life needs. Nurses work in conjunction with clients,

families, and communities to select and evaluate nursing interventions to
promote, maintain, or restore health.
The role of the professional nurse is introduced as that of health
educator, care provider, change agent, and member of a profession.
Students develop skills in advocacy, care coordination, and leadership.
Caring, communication, collaboration, and ethical comportment are
essential to professional role development. Students learn the essential
nature of evidence based practice. This includes applying knowledge
through the use of critical thinking and clinical reasoning in the delivery
of nursing care.
Rev. 8/2001, 8/2007, 6/2010, 8/2011

3. Faculty Conceptualization of Client and Nursing

Source: Developed in 1995 under leadership of Dr. Mary Louise Brown (first MSOE SON
chairperson), Patricia Haselbeck, and the MSMC SON faculty during development of the current
baccalaureate program.

11

E. Alignment SON Goals a with B.S. in Nursing Student Program and Level Outcomes
Program Goals

Student Program Outcomes

Outcome Label

Graduates of the BSN program will be able to:

I. Educate men and

women for practice
as nursing
generalists.

Provide safe, effective compassionate nursing

care based on clinical standards that take in to
account the holistic needs of the client while
progressing towards independent practice.

Nursing Care

II. Educate men and

women to serve the
nursing needs of a
diverse global
community.

Incorporate effective communication and

health education skills with clients and other
members of the healthcare team to improve
coordination of care and to minimize risk and
error.

Communication

Maintain a professional role; recognize client

as full partner when providing compassionate
care; engage in lifelong learning and initiate
change responsive to the needs of society.

Professional
Role

Maintain a professional role; recognize client

as full partner when providing compassionate
care; engage in lifelong learning and initiate
change responsive to the needs of society.

Professional
Role

III. Educate men and

women who are
prepared to engage
in graduate study.

Demonstrate commitment to improve

practice by retrieving and synthesizing
evidence from diverse sources of professional
literature that support decisions to ensure the
quality and safety of nursing care.
IV. Prepare graduates
who can critically
reflect on their
nursing practice
and evaluate the
effects of their
nursing care.

Evidence-Based
Practice

Use independent decision making to

communicate critical thinking and reflective
practice when applying the nursing process to
individualize care for the client with complex
needs.

Critical Thinking

Use health information technology to monitor

and analyze outcomes; employ, select and
evaluate biomedical technologies to ensure
the quality and safety of nursing care
progressing towards independent practice.

Technology

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Program Goals

Student Program Outcomes

Outcome Label

Graduates of the BSN program will be able to:

V. Prepare graduates
who are guided by
ethical principles
and standards of
professional care.

Provide safe, effective compassionate nursing Nursing Care

care based on clinical standards that take in
to account the holistic needs of the client
while progressing towards independent
practice.
Provide leadership that values the ideas and
contributions of others when coordinating
care and collaborating with members of
health care team to improve health care
outcomes.

Collaboration

NOTE: a more than one Level Outcome may be aligned with Program Goal

F. Program and Level Outcomes

Level outcomes flow from each of the program/student outcomes leveled across
freshman, sophomore, junior and senior years. Please refer to the following link.
http://www.msoe.edu/docs/DOC-5556
G. Curriculum Description
The MSOE SON has full approval from the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing and is
accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The curriculum
at the MSOE SON is guided by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
Essential of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Nursing Practice (AACN, 2008)
(Appendix A), the Wisconsin Board of Nursing (BON) Policies and procedures, National
Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), and best evidence and practices in
healthcare and professional nursing.
Clinical experiences are held at a variety of area hospitals, clinics, schools and health
agencies. The total number of hours per week devoted to laboratory and/or clinical
experiences are noted as the second of the three numbers following each course listing.
The SON offers two Bachelor of Science (B.S.) curriculum tracks.
1. B.S. in Nursing - Traditional Track
The undergraduate nursing program consists of 12 quarters each with 16 to 18
credit hours. Students who wish to enroll in fewer than 15 to 18 hours each
quarter are advised to notify their advisor as soon as possible so that a
satisfactory, comprehensive program plan can be designed.
2. B.S. in Nursing - Accelerated Second Degree Track
The BSN accelerated second degree (BSN-ASD) is an accelerated curriculum that
requires an earned BS or BA degree from an accredited institution for admission.
Previous study includes coursework in Mathematics, Life Sciences (inclusive of
general, organic/biochemistry), Professional Preparedness (inclusive of
13

information literacy and communication courses), Social Sciences (inclusive of

sociology and psychology courses), Society and Culture. In addition, students
must have completed healthcare terminology, anatomy and physiology (one
year), statistics, developmental psychology, microbiology, bioethics, and
nutrition.
Upon successful completion of the required course work, the Bachelor of Science
in Nursing (B.S.N.) degree is awarded. Graduates from the MSOE SON are
eligible to sit for the National Council Licensing Exam for RNs (NCLEX-RN).
Success in passing the NCLEX exam is necessary for state RN licensure.
H. Additional Academic Requirements
The following requirements are in addition to the academic regulations and policies in
the MSOE Undergraduate Catalog.
1. Academic progression (Traditional and Accelerated second degree)
a. A grade of C or better in the Human Anatomy and Physiology courses
(BI1010, BI1020, BI1030, BI2040) is the prerequisite to progress into
NU2010 and/or NU2320.
b. A grade of C or better in all NU courses is the prerequisite to progress
to the next nursing course.
c. A grade of less than C or W must be repeated in its entirety (theory
and clinical). This will delay progression.
d. Students who have a gap of two or more consecutive quarters between
clinical courses must be able to demonstrate achievement of the prior
course outcomes, including psychomotor skills.
1) A comprehensive assessment of the students knowledge,
skills and abilities will determine if the student is able to
progress or if a formal remediation/review is required.
2) The remediation/review will be an individualized 1-6 credit
independent study. Students who are not successful in this
review course must repeat the prior clinical course before
moving forward.
3) Students must contact the SON Chair or Program Director at
least one quarter prior to the start of the next course to plan
for this assessment and possible independent study.
e. Final grades in clinical courses are comprised of two parts:
1) A numeric grade based on exams, written work, and assignments
related to lab, clinical and simulation activities.
2) A pass/fail grade for clinical performance. The clinical
performance is based on faculty evaluation.
f. Students must complete their course of study within six years of
enrollment in their first NU clinical course. Any course that does not meet
this guideline must be repeated in order to qualify for graduation.

14

2. Academic Dismissal SON

a. The following academic situations will result in dismissal from the nursing
program:
1) Earning less than a C in three nursing courses (effective winter
quarter 2013-14, this includes all NU courses).
2) Earning less than a C in the same NU course twice.
3. Enrollment in BSN Accelerated Second Degree (BSN-ASD) track
a. Traditional students cannot enroll in BSN - Accelerated Second Degree
(ASD-BSN) clinical courses: NU2011, 2521, 3301, 4702, and 4850.
Developed 6/2013; Revised 6/2014
I. Petition for Senior Student to Graduate Quarter Early
See Appendix B
J. Special Testing Accommodations
Special testing accommodations will be provided for students with documented special
needs. Special testing conditions will not be provided for students without
documentation of these special needs on file. It is the students responsibility to discuss
special testing needs with each course coordinator. Special testing times will be
determined by the Course Coordinator.
Students with special needs should follow up with the SON (SON) Department Chair or
MSOE Raider Center for Academic Success (RCAS).
K. Academic Advising
All students are assigned to a nursing faculty for academic advising. Working with your
advisor, you, as the student, will be provided with guidance, insight, and support. Your
advisor will help you choose courses each quarter and will provide a listening ear,
answer general questions, and direct you to other campus resources, as necessary. It is
recommended that students consult with their advisor frequently regarding their
academic progress. At a minimum, you will meet once every quarter to discuss classes
and plans for the following quarter. Students may request a change in advisor at any
time talking to SON Chair and/or Program Director, no rationale is required.
1. Advisee Responsibilities
a. Schedule a quarterly appointment with your advisor to discuss course
selection for the following term.
b. Provide a realistic assessment of current academic progress at quarterly
advisor meetings.
c. Follow advisors recommendations on course selection when registering
for classes.
d. Consult advisor if you are struggling in a course or thinking about
dropping a course.
15

e. Check progress towards graduation requirements at the end of each

term.
f. Take responsibility for your academic plans and decisions.
g. Clarify your values, interests, and goals.
h. Make yourself aware of pertinent policies, procedures and requirements
as outlined in MSOE in the Undergraduate Academic Catalog and SON
Student Handbook.
i. Take advantage of all resources that will improve and enhance your
educational experience.
j. Be prepared to ask questions regarding career and internship
possibilities.
2. Advisor Responsibilities
a. Schedule a quarterly appointment with each advisee to recommend
courses for the following term.
b. Remove academic hold for each advisee individually after his/her
quarterly advising appointment is complete.
c. Discuss educational and career objectives that are suited to each
advisees demonstrated abilities and expressed interests.
d. Help each advisee plan an appropriate plan of study (curriculum track).
e. Inform each advisee about the prerequisites for subsequent courses in
the advisees program.
f. Make an effort to establish a personal relationship with advisees.
g. Provide accurate information about policies, procedures and
requirements in the undergraduate catalog and SON Handbook when
necessary or appropriate.
h. Understand campus resources available to students.
i. Refer advisees to additional resources when necessary or appropriate.
L. Academic Difficulty / Incompletes
If you, as the student, are having any difficulties in class due to personal or health
reasons, or are at risk of not passing a course, it is important that you talk to your
professor to discuss options/strategies that will help you to be successful. There are
many things to consider including accessing resources, requesting an incomplete, and
dropping a course. Your academic advisor, Program Director, and SON Chair can provide
advice and guidance on this process.
See related sections: Section VI D Safe Practice in Clinical and Lab and Section VI E
Learning Contract.
Developed 8/2015
1. Nursing Student Success Program
The purpose for the Nursing Student Success Program is to supplement the
classroom experience by providing academic and life skills strategies in order for
16

the student to take charge of his/her own learning experience. The program is an
integral part of the SON nursing curriculum designed to enhance student success
by offering tools and resources to assist the student in achieving his/her
academic goals, thus leading to greater retention towards graduation. Students
are referred to the Nursing Student Success Program by SON faculty or students
can self-refer themselves.
Revised 8/2016
M. Student Progression - Appeal Process
Students who are subject to dismissal from the nursing program may appeal to the SON
Progression Committee to continue in the program. The Progression committee is
comprised of at least three nursing faculty (one may be students advisor) and the SON
Chair or Program Director. Appeals are submitted in writing, addressed to the SON
Chair. The student may be required to appear in front of the committee for questions.
The purpose of the appeal is for the student to convince the members of the committee
that he/she should not be dismissed. Before the student writes the appeal, he/she
should take some time to think about the academic experience to date, and reflect on
the issues that contributed to low grades. The first part of the students appeal should
be an explanation of the issues that led to his/her suspension status. The more specific
and honest the student can be in this part of the letter, the better. The progression
committee needs to see that the student has done some soul searching and knows what
his/her challenges are and what needs to be changed. The second part of the appeal is a
plan of action, which should describe what specific actions would be taken to be more
successful in the future. The committee will want to know why they should expect a
different result at the end of the current (or next) term. This part of the letter should be
very specific.
If the student needs help with any part of the appeal process, student academic advisor,
Counseling Services staff and/or Raider Center for Academic Success staff can help.
Developed 8/2015

17

IV.

Course Syllabi and Course Content

A syllabus for each nursing course is available to students. In each course, students will be
provided with specific instructions for accessing the course syllabus.
A. APA Format
All papers for nursing courses must be written and formatted in accordance with
American Psychological Association (APA) requirements. For most papers, at least 10%
of the grade is related to appropriate use of APA. Read the syllabus for each course
carefully for specific requirements. Further assistance with APA may be obtained from
personnel in the Raider Center for Academic Success (RCAS) or the MSOE Library. Links
to APA resources can be found on the Blackboard site: SON Nursing Program, Lab, and
Clinical Resources (Student and Faculty).
B. Senior Portfolio
The Senior Portfolio is a critical part of the overall program assessment plan. Various
assignments, grading rubrics, and clinical evaluation tools from NU390, NU3600,
NU3400/NU4702, NU4710/NU4711, NU4970, NU485/NU4850, NU4860, and NU4870 are
part of the portfolio.
Revised 8/2016
C. Professional Practice Project
Students participate in many group and individual projects in the nursing curriculum. One
long-term project that spans more than one quarter is the Professional Practice Project
(PPP). See Appendix C and NU4960/4970 syllabus for details. Faculty in the Leadership
course will provide preliminary information prior to the start of the NU4960/4970 series.
Revised 8/2016
D. Preceptorship
In the last quarter of the program, students enter a precepted clinical immersion
experience. Students have an opportunity to provide their top three choices for the focus
of the clinical immersion. Students are provided information about the precepted clinical
immersion a couple quarters prior. Determination of student placement in the specific
clinical sites and areas involves a combination of factors including academic good
standing, clinical evaluation tool (CET) data, prior work experiences, and availability of
clinical sites.
E. Test/Exam Review
Faculty may allow students to review graded quizzes and exams. No quiz or exam may
be duplicated by any means (photocopying, photography, manual copy, etc.). Any
student found copying any portion of a graded exam or quiz is subject to disciplinary
action.
F. Testing Environment Guideline for Classroom Testing
1. Seating arrangements:
18

a. In classroom testing, there should be at least one chair space between each
student during the exam.
b. When the room does not allow extra chair space, multiple test versions can be
given.
2. Prior to the exam:
a. Students place all personal belongings and study materials, including cell phones
away from student seating. All cell phones are placed on silent and non-vibrate.
b. Laptops are placed away for exams given on paper.
c. Faculty may inspect food or beverages containers.
d. As needed, scratch paper or white boards will be provided and collected at the
completion of the exam.
e. Remove all caps, hats, and sunglasses.
3. During the exam:
a. Only MSOE simple calculators are used which are provided by faculty.
b. All students will face forward in the desk/table.
c. Both hands should be visible during the exam.
d. Student may wear earplugs during the exam.
e. The classroom door will be closed at the start of the exam. Any student arriving
late will not be granted entrance. Students arriving late will need to discuss make
up with the Course Coordinator. Under extraordinary circumstances, the Course
Coordinator may decide about exceptions to this guideline.
f. Students are not allowed to leave the test area once the exam has started. In
extraordinary circumstances faculty can make an exception.
g. To limit distractions for other students, students who have questions during the
exam should raise their hand.
4. Completion of the exam:
a. Upon completion of the exam, student turns exam over and raising his/her hand.
Faculty will collect the exam.
b. To limit distractions for other students, at each quarter of the hour students will
be able to pick up their belongings and leave the room.
Initiated 8/2016

G. Test/Exam Grading
Students receive a letter grade in each course. Grades and grade point equivalents are
awarded based on the scale provided in the MSOE Undergraduate Catalog Grading
System subsection. Determining the numeric to letter grade conversion for scores
bordering in-between two letter grades for final course grade will round up or down to
the nearest whole number. Specifically, 0.50 or above is rounded up and 0.49 or below is
rounded down.
Developed May 2012, June 2014
H. Learning Management System (LMS)
Some courses use a Learning Management System (LMS) as a communication tool.
MSOE uses Blackboard as its LMS. Blackboard is source of information related to course,
19

clinical and lab content. There are individual course blackboard sites and one ongoing
Nursing Program Blackboard site SON Nursing Program, Lab, and Clinical Resources
(Student and Faculty). Students are expected to be familiar and comply with the content
in these sites.
Revised 6/2011

20

V.

Clinical Requirements
Specific health requirements must be met prior to the first clinical experience (NU2010 or
NU2011) and with each successive clinical course. The requirements stipulated below are
based on the Wisconsin State-Wide Health Requirements for students starting clinical
rotations.
Students will not be permitted to progress in the program and/or continue in clinical if the
above information is not current and on file at. If clinical time is missed due to missing
information, student progression may be affected.
The following details the specific requirements and the process to use an contracted
vendor (Castle Branch) for management of clinical requirements.
A. Health Insurance and Health Status
All SON students who engage in clinical practice/research activities are required to carry
health insurance. Students are responsible for maintaining health insurance coverage
through graduation.
B. Background Checks
As required by the Wisconsin Caregiver Background Check Law (Chapters 48.685 and
50.065, Wis. Stats. DHS 12.05(4) all MSOE nursing students participating in clinical
experiences must have a state(s) criminal history check completed prior to the clinical
experience.
Caregiver clinical agencies must prohibit placement of students with criminal records
cited as restrictions or bars to employment or educational experiences in health
care environments. The existence of a criminal record does not automatically bar
admission to clinical placements.
Additionally, students must not appear on the Office of Inspector General (OIG) or
Excluded Parties Listing System (SAM) registries.
Procedure for criminal background check:
1. Background checks are done the quarter prior to starting NU2010/NU2011. A
student with an arrest or conviction history should consult with the SON Chair upon
Admission.
2. If you have lived in another state or have moved to Wisconsin in the past 3 years, a
check of your background in the state(s) you live or have lived in will need to be
done. This needs to be completed no later than 6 weeks prior to the start of the
quarter.
3. All information regarding background checks will be shared with and clinical
agencies. The final decision to accept or deny students rests with each clinical
agency. Students may be required to provide additional information including
personal statement or police report.
4. On a yearly basis, nursing students are expected to provide documentation that
there are no changes to their information provided in last Background check. If
21

changes have occurred, a new background information Disclosure form is completed

and submitted to contracted vendor for clinical requirements.
5. Procedure for United States: General Services Administration System for Award
Management, (GSA-SAM) Office of Inspector General-List of Excluded Individuals
(OIG-LEIE).
a. Contracted vendor for clinical requirement completes this procedure.
b. The contracted vendor completes inquiries with the General Services
Administration--System for Award Management (GSA--SAM) and Office of
Inspector GeneralList of Excluded Individuals (OIG--LEIE) checks.
c. Check consists of verifying that student names do not appear on these
government agency database lists. The contracted vendor Statewide criminal
search
d. Appearance of students name on one of these lists prohibits the student
from participating in a clinical site.
C. Social Security Release
There may be situations in which clinical agencies ask for students social security
number. Frequently, just the last four numbers of ones Social Security number is
needed. Students sign a release form to allow permit this process.
D. Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
Documentation of a current Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR (cardiopulmonary
resuscitation) certification is always required to be in student file. Students must have
the American Heart Association, Basic Life Support (BLS) for Health Care Providers;
Online CPR classes are not accepted. Any expenses incurred in fulfilling this policy are
students responsibility.
E. Student Handbook Acknowledgement Annually
Verifies student has access to SON policies and procedures as in SON Student Handbook.
F. Annual Safety Education
Each year, students need to validate ongoing education and compliance with
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Blood Borne Pathogen (BBP),
Tuberculosis (TB) Education, and Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA).
This is completed through the Blackboard site: SON Nursing Program, Lab, and Clinical
Resources (Student and Faculty). Please follow directions as posted, which directs
students to upload to vendor for clinical site documentation. Any information required
by the University must be submitted separately to the MSOE Student Health Services.
G. CastleBranch - Directions on Use
CastleBranch is the vendor used to submit and track your clinical requirements. Students
are responsible for the one-time cost. All documentation required by the SON must be
submitted to CastleBranch.
Please access the Castle Branch Website: https://www.castlebranch.com
22

Locate the Place Order at the top right side of the page. Then enter in the Package
Code box this Code MH55all

Gather the necessary health and clinical documents to submit to CastleBranch

1. Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) - 2 vaccinations OR Positive antibody titer (lab
report required) for all 3 components.
2. Varicella (Chicken Pox) - 2 vaccinations OR Positive antibody titer (lab report
required) for Varicella.
3. Hepatitis B - 3 vaccinations OR Positive antibody titer (lab report required) for
Hepatitis B OR Signed Declination Waiver on school form.
4. Tuberculosis (TB) Need a 2-step TB skin test (meaning two separate skin tests and
readings) administered 1-3 weeks apart). If positive results, one of the following is
required: Negative QuantiFERON Gold blood test (lab report required), Proof of
positive TB skin test, clear chest x-ray (lab report required) AND symptom-free TB
Questionnaire on school form.
5. Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis (TDaP).
6. Drug Test: 11 panel urine drug test (information will be provide by CastleBranch.
NOTE: MSOE ongoing Drug Policy (Appendix D).
7. Physical Examination - Download, print, and bring to your healthcare provider the
Physical Exam form. Here is link to document
https://community.msoe.edu/docs/DOC-5590. The Health Forms necessary are
available on the MSOE Health Services website. Physical Exam must be completed
within a 90 day time period prior to start of the program and signed by a medical
professional.
8. Health Insurance documentation (Health Insurance ID card).
9. Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification - from American Heart Association Healthcare
Provider BLS certification.
10. Social security release form.
11. SON Student Handbook acknowledgement.
12. Background Checks
a. If you have lived in another state or have moved to Wisconsin in the past 3 years,
a check of your background in the state(s) you live or have lived in will need to
be done. This needs to be completed no later than 6 weeks prior to the start of
the quarter.
b. If you have questions about any incident in your past history that may prohibit
your ability to be placed in a clinical agency please contact SON Chair to discuss
this issue with prior to the start of the program.
23

13. NOTE: request for Safety Education; OSHA, Blood Borne Pathogen (BBP) and TB
education will be completed in NU2010/NU2011.
14. MSOE understands that some students cannot have immunizations due to health or
religious reasons. Students who decline vaccinations, for any reason, may be denied
clinical placement and should follow up with the SON Chair or Program Director.
Developed 9/2012
Revised 8/2015, 8/2016

24

VI.

Student Clinical and Personal Health Condition Policies

A. Administrative Withdrawal - Noncompliance with Clinical and Health Criteria
Academic advisors review clinical requirements (BLS, health insurance, background
checks, and health requirements) quarterly. Advisor holds, which must be removed in
order to allow a student to register for the next quarter, are linked to fulfillment of
clinical requirements. Your advisor will release holds only if all clinical requirements are
met. Failure to meet the requirements stated in the BLS Certification, Health Insurance,
Background Checks, and Clinical Health Requirements as detailed in this handbook will
result in administrative withdrawal from clinical courses.
B. Students with Personal Health Condition(s)
When student health problems/behaviors are present that jeopardize the safety of
clients, or others, the student and/or instructor have the professional responsibility to
determine appropriate actions.
The SON reserves the right to deny a students admission to a clinical course, or to limit
or terminate his or her participation in a clinical course, if the student's health status
poses a significant risk to the health or safety of patients.
An updated statement of health status from your health care provider is required with
any change in your health status.
Revised 6/2003, 5/2005, 06/2006, 8/2007, 8/2011, 8/2012, 8/2014
C. Student Injury, Needle Stick, or Exposure to Bodily Fluids Policy
Students must comply with the communicable/infectious disease policy and protocols of
the facility to which they are assigned for clinical practice or research activity, as well as
with the policies of the MSOE SON, State and Federal statutes, regulations, and the
contractual mandates of clinical affiliates.
Students should be aware that if they become ill or injured during a clinical or lab
experience, they may be required to seek appropriate medical care at a clinical facility.
The cost of the medical care remains the responsibility of the student.
Please see Appendix D for policy/procedure.
Developed 8/27/2012
D. Safe Practice in Clinical and Lab
Students performance is expected to be safe and in accordance with the expectations of
faculty who are supervising clinical and lab experiences. Illegal behaviors will result in
dismissal from the nursing program on his/her first offense. Students whose actions
jeopardize the health and/or safety of clients will be subject to disciplinary action as
outlined below:
1. If the action puts the client at risk of death, the student will be immediately be
dismissed from the program.
25

2. If the students actions are not in accordance within faculty expectations but do
not put the client at risk of death or sentinel event (an unexpected occurrence
involving death or serious physical or psychological injury, or the risk thereof) the
student will receive a reprimand.
3. Reprimands will consist of the following:
a. First offense written warning.
b. Second offense fail the course.
See related section: Section IX Student Conduct.
E. Learning Contract
If a student struggles to meet expected course or clinical outcomes, a learning contract
may be used to establish realistic and mutually acceptable expectations for improving
student performance. The learning contract is started by faculty and typically outlines
areas for student growth and development, expected outcomes, and a timeframe for
achievement. Specific strategies to achieve course/clinical outcomes, and consequences
for non-achievement are part of the learning contract.
See related section: Section IX Student Conduct.
Developed 8/2016
F. Agency Orientation
Students are required to complete all necessary clinical site orientation requirements.
Information and links to clinical agency websites are available via Blackboard site SON
Nursing Program, Lab, and Clinical Resources (Student and Faculty). Links to the local
healthcare organization website are in this Blackboard site.
G. Psychomotor Skills Portfolio
The purpose of the psychomotor skills portfolio is to provide a collective portfolio of
students participation in nursing lab activities and clinical opportunity in performing
psychomotor skills. This tool serves as a communication tool between student and
faculty.
The student is to maintain ownership of this portfolio. The student provides a copy to
clinical faculty/preceptor at beginning of clinical experience and brings updated portfolio
for clinical evaluation. This tool is used as a personal tracking tool to record completion
of clinical requirements, education to hospital electronic records, and clinical
experiences.
In some clinical experiences, faculty review this portfolio for use in structuring clinical
assignments. This tool is reviewed during students clinical evaluation.
The Psychomotor Skills Portfolio can be used as a print or electronic copy. The link to
document is Psychomotor Skills Portfolio

26

H. Personal Expenses
While at clinical agencies, students are responsible for personal expenses including
meals, parking, and any medical care.
I. Evaluation of Clinical Experience
Students provide a written evaluation of the clinical experience at clinical facility
including his/her preparation for the on-site experience, orientation to clinical facility,
and educational experience at clinical facility.
J. Work Status
Nursing students function within their role, as nursing student, as guided by the course
learning outcomes. While in clinical, students may not, in any manner or at any time, be
utilized by clinical facility, its employees or members of its medical/dental staff as
employees or as replacements for employees of the clinical facility.
K. Fee for Clinical Make-Up
There may be a fee applied for clinical make-up.
L. Transportation
Clinical experiences may occur in a variety of area facilities. Though public transportation
is available to many sites within the metro Milwaukee area, students are expected to
provide their own transportation to assigned agencies. Students are encouraged to
carpool. Students cannot ride in faculty vehicles.
M. Cellular/Mobile Phones
Students may be assigned to local community activities without supervising MSOE faculty
in attendance. Therefore, students must carry a cell/mobile phone anytime they are in
the community setting in order to remain in contact with appropriate faculty and/or to
summon emergency assistance as needed. Students must share their phone number
with course faculty and inform faculty the times and location of planned course activities.
Faculty will provide contact information.
There will be additional agency specific limits placed on use cell/mobile phone/texting.
This information is detailed in course syllabi and/or agency policies/procedures.
Revised 9/2012, 6/2014
N. Community Experience Safeguards
Clinical faculty are available to students, when students are in clinical settings. Students
are required to notify their clinical faculty supervisor regarding date and time of any
anticipated community visits prior to a visit. Careful consideration is given to issues of
personal safety in making clinical assignments. Students are expected to communicate
any concerns with course faculty. Additionally, all community health agencies have
mandated safety precautions for their employees. The SON complies fully with these
mandates.
27

Revised 6/2011
O. Confidentiality of Client/Patient Records and Information
All information regarding clients, clinical agencies, staff and other students is to be kept
in strict confidence and may be shared ONLY in faculty-led conferences.
Documents from patient records are not to be removed from clinical sites. This includes
photocopies and computer printouts, even if the patient name is blacked out. Clients
cannot be identified by full name on any written document.
In accordance with professional standards, full names of clients should not be used in any
written work or computer documentation.
Breaching confidentiality is a serious offense. Students who breach a clients or other
students confidentiality are subject to disciplinary action ranging from reprimand to
exclusion from clinical experiences as required by federal regulations. Students will
receive education related to HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
requirements on an annual basis.
P. Medication Administration
See Appendix G: Medication Administration Policy

28

VII.

Ruehlow Nursing Complex

A. Philosophy of Teaching in a Lab and/or Simulated Environment
The SON Ruehlow Nursing Lab is designed to promote reflective, autonomous practice of
the nursing student. Active learning, critical thinking, and students taking responsibility
for their own learning are philosophical underpinnings of this environment. The SON
faculty believes that underlying principles guide nursing practice inclusive of skill
development. Multiple resources to enhance development, application and validation of
principles of practice are employed in promoting knowledge and skill acquisition in this
environment. The process of skill acquisition is fostered by use of rationale and guiding
principles and not the memorization of a procedure based on a single resource or author.
Simulation Based Learning (SBL) is an educational intervention designed to represent an
authentic healthcare situation by incorporating varying levels of physical, conceptual,
and psychological fidelity (authenticity) to achieve desired learning outcomes,
considering the learner and the learning process.
Nursing students participate in a combination of laboratory (lab) and clinical experiences.
To differentiate lab and clinical experiences
1. Lab experiences engage students in learning activities that focus on the
acquisition of knowledge, skills, and attitudes. These lab activities prepare
students for clinical. This primarily occurs in the MSOE nursing labs.
2. Clinical experiences are hands-on learning situations where students directly care
for patients/clients within the relevant setting. Hands-on clinical instruction
means adequate time spent directly with patients under the supervision of a
qualified faculty member, so that program outcomes are met (NCSBN, 2005).
3. Simulation experiences are educational interventions designed to represent an
authentic healthcare situation by incorporating varying levels of physical,
conceptual, and psychological fidelity (authenticity) to achieve desired learning
outcomes, considering the learner and the learning process.
Revised 6/2011
B. Lab Policies and Procedures
1. Invasive Procedures
Students are not allowed to practice invasive procedures on each other due to
safety and infectious disease concerns. For example, starting intravenous
catheterization (IVs), nasogastric (NG) tube insertion, etc.
Revised 8/2009
2. Needle Safety
When using needles for medication administration, BEST PRACTICE to reduce risk
for injury, is activation of safety device and the disposal of needles in the sharps
biohazard container. The one-handed scoop method to recap needles may be
29

utilized when preparing an injection in one area, then transporting it to the

bedside.
3. Lab Access
Only nursing and biomedical engineering students with current, valid ID cards can
access the nursing laboratories. See Lab Management Plan for lab access
procedure/policy.
Rev. 8/2009, 5/2010, 6/2011
4. Lockers
Lockers are available to nursing students. All items need to be removed from
locker at the end of the academic year. Failure to remove items will result in the
loss of items.
5. Lab Supplies
Students are expected to procure the following supplies for the laboratory and/or
clinical experiences:
a. Lab Pack contains supplies for individual use in laboratory. It is
purchased in the MSOE Bookstore.
b. Additional supplies are needed for specific NU courses. See course syllabi
for specifics. These supplies include but are not limited to dual-head
stethoscope, bandage scissors, hemostat, penlight, EKG calipers, and
reflex hammer.
c. As needed, other supplies will be provided by the Lab Coordinators.
6. Lab Management Plan (LMP)
All nursing MSOE Lab management plans are posted on the MSOE intranet.
Nursing Lab Management Plan.
Students are expected to abide by the rules of the LMP that was developed to
promote a safe lab environment. It also helps us comply with environmental,
health and safety regulations. Students are oriented to the lab management plan
every quarter.
Students not compliant with the Lab Management Plan (LMP) in the laboratories
will be remediated and potentially have their access privileges withdrawn.
7. Lab Usage and Interaction with Lab Coordinators
All laboratories at MSOE are an integral part of the educational process.
a. Information regarding lab activities and lab content are posted on the
Blackboard site SON Nursing Program, Lab, and Clinical Resources
(Student and Faculty).
b. It is the responsibility of each student using the laboratory to maintain it
in a clean, neat, and orderly condition.
30

c. Students must follow the MSOESON uniform policy for scheduled lab
activities.
d. Students are expected to assist nursing faculty to clean up after lab
activities and put away unused supplies.
e. Food and beverages are NOT permitted in the labs.
f. If not a Lab activity, students are not allowed to be on the beds. Shoes
are NOT permitted on the beds.
g. Use of the laboratories will be monitored via the ID card readers used to
access the laboratories.
h. Children are not permitted in the nursing lab.
i. Mobile or cell phones are not permitted for personal use during
scheduled lab activities.
j. When using the nursing lab to practice during non-lab time students are
encouraged to sign in and out using the lab log.
k. Interaction with Clinical Lab Coordinator
1) Utilize as resource for nursing psychomotor skills practice and
remediation.
2) Open lab office hours posted for drop in.
3) Individual or group appointments can be arranged.
4) A list of course activities is posted outside lab and breakout
rooms.
8. Lab Supplies and Equipment Checkout - Student
Lab supplies may be checked out (BP cuffs, thermometers, etc.) by contacting a
Lab Coordinator. The procedure for checking out materials will be communicated
in class as well as the allocated times for checkout. Materials not returned are
subject to a fine of $50, which will be assessed against the students financial
account.
Rev. 8/2011

31

VIII.

Uniform Policy
This policy applies to all nursing students when they are participating in all experiences. The
nursing uniform is required for all clinical and lab practice settings unless specifically
directed by clinical faculty. The official uniform must be purchased prior to clinical
experience; substitutions will not be permitted. Information regarding purchase will be
made available.
The uniform consists of:
1. Black scrub slacks and red polo shirt or red scrub-top with SON insignia.
2. A white, long-sleeve, laboratory coat with the MSOE uniform patch (embroidered by
uniform store or patch from MSOE Bookstore sewn onto top of left upper sleeve).
3. Clinical name badge with the students first name and last initial from MSOE Student
Accounts. (If Clinical Badge is lost or stolen, there is a fee for an additional badge.
4. White or black professional or athletic shoes to be worn EXCLUSIVELY in clinical
settings. Canvas, open-toe or open heel shoes are not permitted.
5. Short-sleeved T-shirt (red, white, black or grey; no logos or writing/verbiage) may be
worn under scrub top.
Students are expected to maintain a professional appearance and behavior in all clinical
settings. This includes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Clean, pressed uniform.

Hair that is clean, neat and off the shoulders.
Trimmed fingernails without nail polish, tips, acrylic nails, ornaments, etc.
Simple jewelry: plain band rings and one (1) stud earring per ear are permitted.
Strong fragrances are not permitted.
Tattoos must be covered.
Hair color must be one that naturally would come out of a human head.
No facial piercing or tongue piercing other than ears.
During pre-clinical preparation in clinical facilities, students are to wear a lab coat
and business casual and/or student uniform.

Clinical Agencies may have additional/different standards. All students will comply with
clinical agency specific dress codes.
Revised 6/2011

32

IX.

Student Conduct
A. Student Conduct Code
To promote professionalism and an atmosphere of civility that enhances collegiality and
learning, students are called upon to treat all faculty, staff, and their fellow students
with respect and consideration.
All students to adhere to the MSOE Student Conduct Code.
Students shall refrain from the use of alcohol or other drugs and shall not carry any
firearms or other weapons. If faculty suspect a student is impaired from substance use
they will be dismissed from the clinical site; additional disciplinary action as per MSOE
Student Conduct Code may apply. Students shall abide by all policies, rules and
regulations established by the clinical facility.
B. Ethical and Professional Behavior
Students are to comply with the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics for
Nurses. Nursing students are to maintain professional, respectful, and caring
relationships with colleagues and are committed to fair treatment, transparency,
integrity-preserving compromise, and the best resolution of conflicts (American Nurses
Association Code of Ethics, 2015, p. 4). Violations of this code may include but not
limited to:
1. Acts of Incivility: Defined as rude, inconsiderate, or disrespectful behavior.
Examples include use of cell phones in class, inattentive, creating unnecessary
disruptions or noise, holding side conversations, repeatedly arriving late for
class.
2. Disruptive Behavior: Defined as any behavior that creates discomfort in another
and that distracts from or interferes with a positive learning environment. This
may include overt behaviors such as showing disrespect or questioning a faculty
members authority in front of other students; making sarcastic remarks;
mimicking; mean-spirited criticism of anothers ideas; or interrupting or
dominating a discussion. Refusal to cooperate with others is a subtle form of
disruptive behavior, as are groaning, sighing, or eye rolling.
3. Bullying: Defined as any repeated, purposefully aggressive words, acts, or
behavior (including gestures). Other instances of bullying include: real or
perceived threats to an individuals safety or physical well-being; verbal abuse,
use of taunts or loud, demeaning, or profane language; engaging personal
attacks; use of humiliation; harassing comments. Mistreatment of one or more
persons that takes one or more of the following forms: manipulation or
intimidation; work interference or sabotage that prevents work from getting
done; exclusion of students from workgroup; or gossip and spreading or rumors,
including by email, text, or posting via social media.
4. Lack of integrity: Defined as failure to do what is expected, keep commitments,
or adhere to class standards. Examples of this occur when a person repeatedly
33

misses deadlines, fails to complete his or her full share of a group project, or
unfairly benefits from the work or actions of others.
5. Dishonesty: Defined as lying or misrepresentation, either verbally, or by
falsifying patient data. Academic dishonesty is defined in the Student Conduct
Code and Undergraduate Academic Catalog.
6. Violations of student or patient privacy: Health Insurance Portability and
Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 (PL 104-191) (HIPAA) or Family Educational
and Privacy Act (FERPA) acts.
7. Violations of ethical conduct in patient care: See ANA Code of Ethics.
C. Student Conduct Leading to Dismissal from Clinical or Lab
Faculty have the right and professional responsibility to dismiss students from clinical
and lab settings. Examples include but are not limited to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Suspected alcohol / substance use

Failure to comply with dress code
Unprofessional behavior
Violations of ANA code of Ethics
Violations MSOE and SON Student Conduct Code
Unsafe behavior
Tardiness and or absence
Coming to clinical settings unprepared
Inappropriate personal hygiene

D. Timeliness
Students shall report to Clinical Facility at the assigned place and time. Students shall
inform Clinical Facility and their MSOE clinical instructor as soon as possible of their
inability to report to clinical facility as assigned.
E. Professional Behavior of Students Report Form
The MSOE SON believes that professional behavior within our classrooms, clinical sites,
labs and school premises is essential to continued success in our program. To address
this, there is a Professional Behavior of Student Report Form to assist both student and
faculty in reflecting and correcting behaviors (Appendix F). Faculty will utilize this form as
necessary and indicated when an incidence of students inappropriate behavior occurs.
Forms will be forwarded to the Program Director for future action.
Students are strongly encouraged to bring violations to the attention of the SON faculty.
The SON faculty has developed a process for counseling and remediation to guide
students in developing professional behaviors. The goal of this process is to create the
best possible learning environment for students, faculty, and staff, and to assist students
in developing professional behaviors.
See related sections: Section VI D Safe Practice in Clinical and Lab and Section VI E
Learning Contract.
Developed May 2012
34

F. Social Media Guidelines

Online social media allow MSOE SON students to engage in professional and personal
conversations. The goal of these guidelines is to protect both MSOE students and the
SON. Because of the emerging nature of social media platforms, these guidelines do not
attempt to name every possible platform. Rather, they apply to any online platform, both
current and emerging ones, including social networking sites and sites with usergenerated content. Examples include, but are not limited to: You Tube, Facebook, My
Space, LinkedIn, Twitter, Blogs, Internet forums.
These guidelines represent a set of standards of conduct when students identify
themselves with the MSOE SON and/or use their MSOE email address in social media
venues. These guidelines apply whether the online activity is related to professional
purposes, or occurs as part of personal social activities.
1. Students are personally responsible for content published on blogs, wiki, social
forums or networks, or on any other user-generated media. When students post
to friends, there is the need to realize these sites are in reality open to the
general public. Therefore, be thoughtful about what is published. DO NOT
disclose any information or publish any details about patients or their families,
even if altered, or by using initials. Do not discuss clinical rotations, staff, or the
institutions. Doing so is a major violation of HIPAA. Violation of HIPAA privacy
protections can incur fines to the institution, has serious consequences. It can
lead to being banned from attending clinical in an agency, an entire healthcare
system, and probably prevent getting a job with healthcare system in the future.
It might also impair MSOEs ability to use that unit as a future clinical site.
2. If a student identifies him/herself as a MSOE Nursing student in any online
forums, and/or uses their MSOE email to post comments, the student needs to
make it clear that he or she is not speaking for the MSOE SON. In addition, the
student needs to make it clear what is posted represent their personal views and
opinions, not the view of the SON. By virtue of self-identifying as part of the
MSOE SON, students connect themselves to, and reflect upon the MSOE faculty,
staff, student body, and alumni and on our partner agencies.
3. Be thoughtful about posting, and about the tone of writing. Student nurses are
preparing for a career providing services to the public. Be sure personal profile
and any related content is consistent with manner of presentation to current
and future colleagues, clients, patients, and potential employers. Employers
routinely review personal pages on websites of persons they are considering
hiring. Employers use what is found to assess attitudes, judgment, behavior, and
discretion. Content contributed on all platforms becomes immediately
searchable and can be immediately shared with anyone. Content can be archived
and immediately leaves the individual students control.
4. Always show respect to peers, co-workers, and MSOE faculty and staff when
using social media. The MSOE-SON is a community with faculty, staff and
35

students who hold diverse values, customs, and points of view; the same is true
of the patients and families served, and of the broader healthcare and general
communities. Be sensitive to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of others.
Respect others; this includes not only avoiding obvious offenses (racial or ethnic
slurs, personal insults, or obscenity; provocative or racy, suggestive, or
pornographic images; crude jokes, etc.) but includes thinking carefully before
posting about controversial or inflammatory topics, including politics and
religion. Remember, what may be humorous to some may be offensive to
others. When comments are made, think carefully about wording before
submitting. There is a responsibility as a professional to help maintain civility in
online forums.
5. During courses and clinical, students are strongly encouraged to take their
concerns to the faculty, the Course Coordinator and the Program Director or
SON Chair as needed for assistance in resolving conflicts. It is never appropriate
to malign any member of the MSOE community in social forums, where that
person may be unable to defend him or herself. In addition, students are
routinely provided with opportunities to share their voices through their class
representatives and the faculty at the end of each quarter. Students have a
chance to provide comments and feedback about the program as a whole
through the SON surveys. Please use those structures and opportunities open to
address issues, and work with others to create a positive atmosphere in the SON.
Social media outlets are an inappropriate and harmful forum for such comments.
6. Faculty members request students to wait to comment if contacted by the media
about posts on a forum or a social media site that relate to the SON. Please
speak first with the SON Chair or Program Director before responding.
References
Clark, C.M., (2009). Faculty field guide for promoting student civility in the
classroom. Nurse Educator 34(5) Retrieved June 1, 2010 from
http://scholarworks.bosiestate.edu/nursing.facpubs/1
Dellasega, C.A. (2009). Bullying among nurses. American Journal of Nursing 109 (1):
52-58.
Johnson, M., Phanbtbarath, P., & Jackson, B.S. (2009). The bullying aspect of
workplace violence in nursing. Critical Care Nursing (32)4, p. 287-95.
The Joint Commission. (2008). Behaviors that undermine a culture of safety. Sentinel
Events Alert (40): 1-3.
Developed 6/2011

36

X.

Student Organizations
A. National Student Nurses Association (NSNA)
MSOE has an active chapter of the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA). All
nursing students are encouraged to become members of this organization.
Participation in NSNA activities offers students opportunities for involvement and
leadership skills development at the state and national level, as well as within the MSOE
Student Government Association.
B. Nurses for Nurses
This is a subgroup of the Student Nurse Association. New students are partnered with
upper classmen for purposes of mentoring and support.
C. Nursing Honor Society
The MSOE SON established the Honor Society in the 2006/2007 academic year as a
mechanism to recognize academic achievement, character, and leadership. The first
induction was held in May of 2007. An annual induction ceremony for new members is
held each spring.
Eligible students and nurse leaders are invited to apply annually, in March. Students who
have completed over one-half of the nursing program curriculum and have a cumulative
GPA of 3.0 or greater are eligible to apply. Honor Society bylaws and additional
information is available from the Honor Societys officers or Faculty Advisors.
A long-term goal of the group is to establish a chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International
on the MSOE campus.

37

XI.

Departmental Committees
Student participation in departmental issues is an important component of the Nursing
program. There are also institutional opportunities for involvement in MSOE student
government.
A. Curriculum Committee
The SON Curriculum Committee meets regularly and solicits student input via multiple
methods, including the Student Advisory committee.
B. Faculty Committee
Nursing students are encouraged to bring issues to the attention of the faculty
committee through direct conversation with faculty or through the Student Advisory
Committee. Individual concerns or issues should be addressed to the appropriate faculty
or through the grievance procedure as outlined in the MSOE Undergraduate Academic
Catalog.
C. Laboratory Committee
The lab committee meets quarterly and solicits feedback from students regarding lab
activities, through lab evaluations both written and verbal.
Revised 6/2011
D. Evaluation Assessment (EA) Committee
The SON Evaluation Assessment (EA) Committee meets regularly and solicits student
input via multiple methods, including the Student Advisory committee.
E. Student Advisory Committees:
The Student Advisory committees is comprised of graduate and undergraduate faculty
representatives and students from each cohort group. The group meets quarterly to
present issues and concerns and to have a voice in decision making. The group discusses
issues, shares and disseminates information to cohort groups, and provide feedback to
faculty representatives.

38

XII.

Departmental Activities and Awards

A. Pinning and/or Achievement Ceremony
The tradition of Pinning dates back to the 1860s. It is a rite of passage marking the
transition from student to professional. MSOE SON continues the tradition that started at
our predecessor, the Milwaukee County General Hospital SON. Representatives from the
senior class are elected to form a planning committee each year. With assistance from
the designated faculty advisor, this committee plans and coordinates the pinning
ceremony. Nursing school pins are purchased by students.
B. Nursing Student Leadership Award
The Nursing Student Leadership Award is an endowed annual award to recognize
outstanding leadership qualities in a senior nursing student. The Award is based on
demonstration of formal and/or informal leadership activities at MSOE.
Criteria - Student
1. Demonstrates commitment to the profession of nursing
2. Inspires others with her/his vision of nursing
3. Empowers others around him/her
4. Is an effective communicator
5. Is goal directed
6. Is a self-directed learner
7. Strives for quality care
8. Has a 2.5 GPA or above
9. Senior student graduating in the current academic year (May, Aug, Nov, Feb)
Award Process
1. Traditional students as well as transfer students are eligible for the award.
2. The winner is nominated and elected by full-time nursing faculty winter quarter
of senior year.
3. Student selected is awarded at the Student Leadership Event.
The Award
1. A plaque representing the Nursing Leadership Award will be located at the SON.
The students name is added each year.
2. The student recipient will receive a certificate for $500.00 and a plaque.
C. Bridging Ceremony
The Bridging ceremony, facilitated by SNA and Nursing Honor Society, recognizes and
celebrates the transition from classroom and lab, into the clinical environments.

39

XIII.

NCLEX Licensure Exam - Preparation

In order to obtain licensure as a registered nurse in the United States, it is necessary to pass
the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The MSOESON strives to ensure the students ability to deliver safe and effective nursing care and
enhance success on the NCLEX licensure exam.
A. NCLEX Registration Process and Information
Each year senior nursing students receive information that details information on how
students should prepare and register for the NCLEX-RN. In addition, specific information
to each states licensure and regulation process is found on the states licensure and
regulation websites: Below are links to the National Council State Boards of Nursing
(NCSBN) and Wisconsin State Board of Nursing.
1. NCSBN https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex.htm
2. Wisconsin state information http://dsps.wi.gov/Home
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing issues quarterly reports identifying the
first time candidate pass rates for each program on the NCLEX-RN examinations. NCLEXRN pass rates for all schools in WI are posted on the Wisconsin Department of Safety and
Professional Services website: http://dsps.wi.gov/Default.aspx?Page=e435e436-1b0a4c00-a3e0-5008f608c280
B. NCLEX Review Course
MSOE SON funds the cost for a SON selected NCLEX review course typically offered the
week after graduation. Additionally, students have the opportunity to attend the review
course 1 to 2 quarters prior to graduation.
C. NCLEX ATI RN Comprehensive Predictor Exam
MSOE-SON has various processes to facilitate student success on the NCLEX exam. These
processes begin freshman year and continue until graduation. Descriptions of NCLEX
preparation processes are communicated via course syllabi, course faculty, and student
informational meetings. One of these processes is an assessment to predict a students
chance of passing NCLEX.
In preparation for NU4870 Transition to Professional Nursing Practice, students take a RN
comprehensive standardized exam (Assessment Technologies Institute [ATI]) that predicts
the students chance of NCLEX success. This assessment is used to identify students
strengths and areas for review in preparation for NCLEX. Students who score at or below
the 35th percentile (program) are required to take the NU4870X 2-credit version of this
course. (See Figure)

40

Figure: How to Interpret RN Comprehensive ATI - Individual Report

41

XIV.

References
American Nurses Association (2015). Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice (3rd Ed.)
Washington DC. American Nurses Publishing
American Nurses Association (2015). American Nurses Association Code of Ethics with
interpretive statements. Washington, D.C.: American Nurses Publishing
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2008). The Essentials of Baccalaureate
Education for Professional Nursing Practice, Washington DC
Clark, C.M., (2009). Faculty field guide for promoting student civility in the classroom.
Nurse Educator 34(5) Retrieved June 1, 2010 from
http://scholarworks.bosiestate.edu/nursing.facpubs/1
Dellasega, C.A. (2009). Bullying among nurses. American Journal of Nursing 109 (1): 52-58.
Goltermann, J., Leifer, S., & Peterson, K. (2003). 100 + years of excellence in nursing
education. Unpublished centennial display, Milwaukee School of Engineering,
Milwaukee, WI.
Goltermann, J., Shimek, G., and Leifer, S. (2006). Forging the future to preserve the past:
The evolution of a nursing archive. Poster presentation at the American Association for
the History of Nursing Conference, Rochester, MN.
Gordon, M. (2000). Manual of nursing diagnosis. Ed. Jones and Bartlett: London, UK
Johnson, M., Phanbtbarath, P., & Jackson, B.S. (2009). The bullying aspect of workplace
violence in nursing. Critical Care Nursing (32)4, p. 287-95.
The Joint Commission. (2008). Behaviors that undermine a culture of safety. Sentinel
Events Alert (40): 1-3.
Langill, E. (2003). MSOE: The first 100 years. Milwaukee, WI, Milwaukee School of
Engineering.
NCSBN, (2005). Clinical instruction in prelicensure nursing programs. 1-10. National
Council of State Board of Nursing. Chicago, Ill
Weihing, B.J. (Ed.). (1988). The Centennial History of Milwaukee County Medical Complex
SON, 1888-1988. Milwaukee, WI: Milwaukee County Medical Complex SON.

42

XV.

Appendices

Appendix A The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education (AACN, 2008)

Essentials delineate the outcomes expected of graduates of baccalaureate nursing programs.
The nine (9) Essentials are:
Essential I: Liberal Education for Baccalaureate Generalist Nursing Practice
A solid base in liberal education provides the cornerstone for the practice and
education of nurses.
Essential II: Basic Organizational and Systems Leadership for Quality Care and Patient Safety
Knowledge and skills in leadership, quality improvement, and patient safety are
necessary to provide high quality healthcare.
Essential III: Scholarship for Evidence Based Practice
Professional nursing practice is grounded in the translation of current evidence into
ones practice.
Essential IV: Information Management and Application of Patient Care Technology
Knowledge and skills in information management and patient care technology are
critical in the delivery of quality patient care.
Essential V: Health Care Policy, Finance, and Regulatory Environments
Healthcare policies, including financial and regulatory, directly and indirectly influence
the nature and functioning of the healthcare system and thereby are important
considerations in professional nursing practice.
Essential VI: Interprofessional Communication and Collaboration for Improving Patient Health
Outcomes
Communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals are critical to
delivering high quality and safe patient care.
Essential VII: Clinical Prevention and Population Health
Health promotion and disease prevention at the individual and population level are
necessary to improve population health and are important components of
baccalaureate generalist nursing practice.
Essential VIII: Professionalism and Professional Values
Professionalism and the inherent values of altruism, autonomy, human dignity,
integrity, and social justice are fundamental to the discipline of nursing.
Essential IX: Baccalaureate Generalist Nursing Practice
The baccalaureate graduate nurse is prepared to practice with patients, including
individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations across the lifespan and
across the continuum of healthcare environments.
The baccalaureate graduate understands and respects the variations of care, the
increased complexity, and the increased use of healthcare resources inherent in caring
for patients
43

Appendix B Petition for Senior Student to Graduate Quarter Early

MSOE SON
Petition for Senior Student Nurse to Graduate Quarter Early (Developed 12/2014)
PETITION ELIGIBILTIY AND FORM
STUDENT_____________________ ID_______________
A senior nursing student, projected to finish course work in November of the year (Cohort B),
may petition to graduate one quarter early (in summer with BSN-ASD cohort). Student reviews
eligibility criteria. If meets criteria, completes Petition Form and submits to Undergraduate
Program Director by November 1st.
Phase 1 - Eligibility
1. GPA in Major is 3.0 or greater (including spring quarter of senior year).
2. Anticipated plans to work during summer limited to 16 hours/week or less.
3. NU4960/NU4970 Leadership Professional Practice Project (PPP) is not paired with a student
who will graduate in Fall quarter. Student may pair with another student who will graduate
in summer or may complete PPP independently.
4. Student investigates whether graduating in summer will affect financial aid.
5. Student informs student accounts, if petition granted, to adjust laptop quarter fee.
Record of Eligibility Criteria:
a. List GPA in Major (including spring quarter prior)

GPA is ______________

b. Provide name of student you will be working with during

Leadership Professional Practice Project (PPP) who will
also be graduating in the summer or whether you will
work independently

I will partner
with_________for PPP

c. Describe your plans for work schedule (cannot exceed

more than 16 hours per week).

My plans to work are:

I will work independently

Not Work
Work (describe)

d. I understand, if petition granted, I need to follow up with

financial aid office regarding tuition and fees, student
accounts regarding laptop, registrar office regarding
graduation process for May.
Student signature________________________ Date________
Phase 2 Faculty Recommendation
6. Student asks two faculty members for Written Recommendation (see form page 2). At least
one of the two nursing faculty has/had student in clinical during junior year or senior year.

44

Phase 3 Decision
7. Student submits clinical perceptorship site preferences.
________________________________
8. Request for petition is dependent on availability of clinical - preceptorships. Clinical Liaison
identifies that clinical preceptorship site is available: ________________________
9. SON Chair Recommendations: Petition Granted: Yes NO
10. Advisor Notified: Yes on date____
Phase 4 Communication to student
1. Student notified of decision: Yes on date______
Distribution of Petition Form
Student file

Registrar Office

SON file

Student

Faculty Recommendation:
Question

Yes

No

Student is punctual and consistently submits assignments on time

Student is professional in his/her communication in class and clinical
Student is positive and motivated in his/her learning
Clinical course taught student in

Term

Additional Comments on students potential to be successful in

completion of course work in summer:

Faculty member Signature: ______________________________________

Date:__________________
Faculty member, after completion of your recommendation, return application form to
Undergraduate Program Director.
45

Faculty Recommendation:
Question

Yes

No

Student is punctual and consistently submits assignments on time

Student is professional in his/her communication in class and clinical
Student is positive and motivated in his/her learning
Clinical course taught student in:

Term

Additional Comments on students potential to be successful in

completion of course work in summer:

Faculty member Signature: ______________________________________

Date:__________________
Faculty member, after completion of your recommendation, return application form to
Undergraduate Program Director.

46

Appendix C Professional Practice Project Flowchart

47

Appendix D MSOE Drug Testing Policy

MILWAUKEE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING -- SON Drug Testing Policy - STUDENTS
A. POLICY STATEMENT
The purposes of the SON Drug Testing Policy are to comply with regulations of area health
care agencies, to provide optimal care to patients, and to support the nursing professions
zero tolerance position related to illicit use of substances. Students must abide by the drug
test policies of each healthcare agency in which the student is assigned for clinical
experiences; therefore, the most stringent of those healthcare agency policies will be the
expectation for all students.
The use of illegal drugs or abuse of alcohol, on or off-duty, may impair the ability of
students to perform tasks that are critical to proper work performance and may jeopardize
safety and health. The result is an increase in accidents, which poses a serious threat to the
safety of students, coworkers, patients, and the general public. Impaired students also tend
to be less productive, less reliable, and prone to greater absenteeism, resulting in the
potential for increased cost and delays.
Furthermore, students have the right to work in a drug-free environment and to work with
persons free from the effects of drugs and alcohol. Students who abuse alcohol or drugs are
a danger to themselves and to others.
B. POLICY OBJECTIVE
The objective of this policy is to provide consistent, objective, fair, and manageable
procedures for drug screening of students for the presence of ingested drugs.
This is to notify all students that the following are strictly prohibited from any and all clinical
and lab sites:

the use, abuse, presence of unauthorized controlled substances in the body

any incident of reporting to clinical/lab under the influence
the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession, transfer, storage, concealment,
transportation, promotion or sale of illegal and unauthorized drugs, controlled
substances, alcoholic beverages or drug-related paraphernalia.

C. POLICY APPLICATION
This Program will apply to all nursing students of MSOE. Students will submit authorization
allowing the laboratory designated by CertifiedBackground.com, the company selected to
oversee drug testing for the SON, to collect and test a urine specimen for the presence for
illicit drugs and verify the results through CertifiedBackground.com. Initial drug testing
occurs when the student enters NU2010/2011(Health Assessment of Individuals) or the first
clinical course for transfer students. In addition, students may be subject to testing per
agency affiliation agreement. Test results are confidential.

48

D. POLICY ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT

The development, implementation and administration of MSOE's SON Drug Testing Policy is
the responsibility of the SON Department. MSOE shall make testing records available to
meet the requirements of federal, state, or county agencies.
E. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TESTING PROTOCOLS
All students subject to this Program will be required to undergo drug testing as a condition
of their continuation in the nursing curriculum.
F. CONFIDENTIALITY
An individual's expectation of privacy and confidentiality is a top priority for MSOE.
Accordingly, all testing results will be considered a confidential record and will not be
disclosed except as authorized by the individual.
G. SPECIMEN ANALYSIS
All urine samples collected under this Program shall be analyzed by a National Institute for
Drug Abuse certified laboratory and shall include an initial Enzyme Multiplied Immunoassay
Screening Test and a Gas Chromatography / Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) confirmation test.
Said testing must screen, as a minimum, for the following substances and levels:
Drugs Tested

Amphetamines/Methamphetamines/MDMA (class)
Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines
Cannabinoids (Marijuana metabolites - THC)
Cocaine Metabolite
Methadone
Opiates
o Codeine/Morphine
o Heroin
Phencyclidine (PCP)
Propoxyphene metabolites
Alcohol

H. SAMPLE COLLECTIONS
Urine samples will be collected and sealed by professional collection specialists at labs
designated by MSOEs substance abuse screening contractor, Certified Background.com.
I. MEDICAL REVIEW OFFICER
In the event of an abnormal drug test, the Medical Review Officer (MRO), from Certified
Background.com may contact you with questions to confirm the results of the drug test.
J. TYPE OF TESTING TO BE UTILIZED
Individuals will be subject to drug testing under the following circumstances:
49

Placement Testing: All nursing students eligible for clinical placement are required to submit
to a urine drug test. Continued progression in the program is contingent upon negative
urine drug screen.
K. POLICY VIOLATIONS
MSOE requires nursing students to participate in drug screening as a condition of continued
progression and to comply with clinical agency requirements. Failure to comply with any
provisions of this Program shall be grounds for disciplinary action including dismissal from
the program.
L. DETERMINATION FOR VIOLATION OF POLICY
Any of the following actions will constitute a violation of this program:

A confirmed positive test for drugs or alcohol.

Failure or refusal to sign an acknowledgement of the policy.
Refusal to contact or provide information to the Medical Review Officer as directed.
Failure to report as directed for drug testing.
Switching, adulterating or attempting to tamper with any sample submitted for drug or
alcohol testing or otherwise interfering or attempting to interfere with the testing
process.
Refusal to submit a specimen for testing will be viewed as a positive test and will carry
with it the same consequences as specimens tested and reported as positive.
The use of a controlled substance by an individual other than the individual for whom it
was prescribed or the abuse of a controlled substance by the individual for whom it was
prescribed is prohibited.

M. CONFIRMED POSITIVE TEST RESULTS

If the confirmed positive test is due to the use of illicit drugs, the student is not allowed to
attend clinical or lab activities and will be dismissed from the program.
If the positive test is due to a prescribed medication, the student must follow the
procedures outlined by CertifiedBackground.com for documenting prescription use of the
drug. The decision whether the student can attend clinical will be determined by the clinical
agency.
The student who tests positive will be dismissed from the nursing program. The student
may be eligible to reapply 1 year later. Reapplying does not guarantee readmittance to the
program.
Developed (9/2012), Revised 7/2013

50

Appendix E - Student Injury, Needle Stick, or Exposure to Bodily Fluids

MILWAUKEE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING -- SON Student Injury, Needle Stick, or Exposure to
Bodily Fluids Policy and Procedure
Developed 8/28/12
A. Introduction:
Students must comply with the communicable/infectious disease policy and protocols of
the Institution or facility with which they are assigned for clinical practice or research
activity, as well as with the policies of the MSOE SON, State and Federal statutes,
regulations, and the contractual mandates of clinical affiliates.
To help protect the health and safety of its students, as well as that of patients and subjects,
the SON requires:
1. Initial infectious disease screening
2. Pre-exposure prophylactic immunization against specified
infectious/communicable diseases
3. Post-exposure prophylactic follow-up/treatment following exposure to specified
infectious diseases such as HBV, HIV, and tuberculosis
B. Policy:
A student in a clinical/practicum rotation will be held responsible for immediately notifying
the MSOE Instructor and his/her clinical agency representative of any injury, needle stick, or
bodily fluid exposure occurring during the clinical rotation. Included in this policy is the right
of the Instructor to assess and take action on any injury/exposure that is noticed or brought
to the attention of the Instructor. MSOEs Risk Management Department must also be
notified as soon as possible by the MSOE Instructor.
The student is responsible reporting and completing all paperwork required by the clinical
site as well as MSOE reports.
C. Procedure:
1. Incident Reporting: In the event of an accident, drug error, treatment error, or any
incident involving a patient or student, during the clinical experience of the student the
following reports must be submitted:
a. A written incident report shall be completed within the policy guidelines of the
affected Institution.
b. A copy of this incident report shall be submitted to the Instructor, the SON Chair
and MSOEs Risk Manager.
c. The MSOE General Incident Report shall be completed.
2. Bloodborne Exposure Reporting: In the event of a bloodborne exposure incident
involving a patient or student, during the clinical/lab experience of the student, the
following reports must be submitted:
51

a. A written incident report shall be completed within the policy guidelines of the
affected Institution.
b. A copy of the institution incident report shall be submitted to the Instructor, the
SON Chair and MSOEs Risk Manager.
c. In addition, the student will complete MSOEs Bloodborne Report.
Both forms (Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure and General Incident Report) are available
on electronically on the Environmental Health and Safety site.
http://www.msoe.edu/community/about-msoe/who-we-are/environmental-health%26-safety
3. Process - For an Injury/Incident within the required course and scope of the required
clinical assignment:
a. Contact your MSOE instructor immediately.
b. Complete the forms required by the Institution AND the Undergraduate Nursing
Departments General Incident Form OR the Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure
Form.
c. Contact Occupational Health, if available, in the Institution where the injury
occurred and follow that Institutions protocol for medical evaluation.
d. If no Institutional medical evaluation process is available, contact the MSOE
instructor. The Instructor will assist you in identifying medical treatment options.
e. Follow-up treatment must be coordinated with the medical provider as
necessary.
4. Process - For an Exposure (contaminated sharps, body fluids, contagious disease):
a. Contact your MSOE instructor immediately.
b. Complete the forms required by the Institution AND MSOEs Bloodborne
Pathogen Exposure Form.
c. Contact Occupational Health in the Institution where the injury occurred and
follow that Institutions protocol.
d. If no Institutional medical evaluation process is available, contact the MSOE
instructor. The Instructor will assist you in identifying medical treatment
options.
e. If the incident occurs in a non-hospital setting, the student should go to an innetwork provider (after hours to the nearest ER/Urgent Care with Occupational
Medical Clinic follow-up).
f. Follow-up treatment must be coordinated with the medical provider as
necessary.
g. If the student is physically unable to complete the reporting process, the clinical
instructor will be responsible for its submission to the appropriate parties.
5. Follow up. The SON Chair/Program Director will review all circumstances surrounding
incidents, exposures and accidents and will seek input from the Instructor. In the event
52

changes need to be made, the SON Chair will ensure that appropriate changes are made
or the student is re-trained as necessary.
D. Health Costs and Coverage:
Nursing students are not considered employees of MSOE. As a result, they are not covered
under the universitys Workers Compensation policy. Nursing students may become ill,
injured or exposed to infectious/communicable diseases while engaging in clinical
practice/research activities. Illness, injury, or exposure to disease may require, but may not
be limited to, counseling, prophylactic intervention, diagnostic procedures and/or follow-up
treatment.
The SON is not liable for health care costs associated with a student's illness or injury
resulting from clinical practice/research activities. For any student who experiences a blood
or body fluid exposure incident, the student is responsible for medical costs incurred for
counseling and both initial and serial diagnostic testing. The student is also responsible for
all follow-up care and treatment and/or any diagnostic tests/procedures conducted
subsequent to the evaluation phase. Any student who exposes another to his/her
blood/body fluids and/or an infectious disease during clinical practice/research activities
may be responsible for all costs incurred as a result of that exposure.
All SON students who engage in clinical practice/research activities are required to carry
health insurance. A MSOE student health insurance plan is available. For more information,
contact Student Life or Health Services for enrollment and policy information. Students are
responsible for maintaining health insurance coverage through graduation.

53

Appendix F Professional Behavior of Student Report Form

MSOE -- SON
PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR OF STUDENTS REPORT FORM
Student Name
Course Number
Issuing
Faculty_______________________________

Report Date
Occurrence Date

OCCURRENCE TYPE:
Please refer to the MSOE SON Student Handbook - Student Conduct Code.
Check all that apply
1. Failure to complete an assignment on time.
2. Two or more incidents of tardiness or absence. (Excused ________ Unexcused
________ ).
3. Unprofessional communication and/or behaviors with faculty, staff, and/or other
students in class, clinical or school premises.
4. Inappropriate professional dress and /or lack of personal hygiene in clinical and lab.
5. Inadequate knowledge and/or lack of preparation in class or clinical regarding
treatment, medications, or plan of care.
6. Clinical errors involving medication and/or/treatment (all errors should be noted to
avoid bias).
7. Dismissal from clinical site.
8. Student requests to take quizzes and/or exams outside of scheduled times.
9. Any behaviors deemed unprofessional or disrespectful by faculty (such violations are
illustrated in the MSOE SON Student Handbook under Student Conduct).
Please describe behaviors below if necessary.

NOTIFICATION
Student notified by issuing faculty on:

___(Date)

Course Coordinator notified by issuing faculty on:

SON Chair and/or Program Director notified by issuing faculty on:

54

(Date)
(Date)

MSOE --SON
PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR OF STUDENTS REPORT FORM (continued)
Student Comments Related to Occurrence:

Issuing Faculty Comments Related to Occurrence:

Student Goal:

Student Plan:

Student

Signature

Date

Issuing Faculty

Signature

Date

*REVIEW

DATE Faculty

_____________
Corrected copy 3/6/2012

55

Appendix G - Medication Administration Policy

MSOE SON
Medication Administration Policy
The purpose of this policy is to clarify expectations of MSOE nursing students when
administering medications in any clinical setting. This policy serves as an adjunct to any clinical
agency medication administration policies; it does not supersede agency policies. Clinical
instructors are expected to review the agencys medication policies, and orient nursing
students to the agencys medical records system. All nursing students are expected to read and
be familiar with each unit or agencys medication administration policies.
Policy:
1. Nursing Students MAY NOT give any medication without the direct supervision (in the
room presence) of the clinical instructor or an RN.
2. Nursing Students are required to follow the steps of the Nursing Process when
administering medications (See Nursing Process - related to medication administration).
3. Nursing Students must obtain pre-administration assessment data and be able to state if
the patient has any contraindications to receiving the drug (See Core Patient Variables).
4. Nursing Students are expected to demonstrate an understanding of core drug
knowledge, which includes the purpose, expected timing of onset of action, most
common and serious adverse effects, and nursing actions required for safe
administration of the drug (See Core Drug Knowledge).
5. Nursing Students should act on opportunities to educate patients and family members
about safe use of their medications.
6. Nursing Students may administer controlled substances, as pre-determined by
instructor, under direct supervision of instructor or the patients staff nurse.
7. Nursing Students may administer pre-determined high alert drugs with their instructors
permission and direct supervision after a double check has been completed by two (2)
RNs (if the agency policy permits).
8. Nursing Students are required to monitor the patients response to all medications,
even if the student did not directly administer them, and to report immediately any
suspected adverse effects to the RN and the clinical instructor.
9. Nursing Students MAY NOT perform a medication double check, act as the second
signer on high alert medications (heparin and insulin), act as a witness when excess
doses of controlled substances are wasted, initiate PCA medications, administer
chemotherapy or conscious sedation, adjust epidural medications, administer blood
products, or administer any medication injected into a body space (reservoir,
intraosseus, etc.). Student may observe procedures, assist with taking pre-and postadministration vital signs, monitor the patients response and report any issues.
10. Any failure of a nursing student to follow the Five Rights of Medication administration
will result in a Below Expectations on the clinical evaluation tool rating for the clinical
day. If this behavior happens more than once, the student risks failing the course
clinically.
11. If a medication error occurs, the nursing student will follow the agencys policy and
procedure, and record the incident on their clinical evaluation tools.
56

Nursing Student Responsibilities:

1. Nursing Students are responsible for reviewing all medications prior to clinical and any
time a new medication is ordered. Prior to clinical, the students will prepare a
medication administration worksheets or med cards as directed.
2. Nursing Students are expected to review the MAR soon after arrival on the unit and
convey the times when medications are due to the instructor.
3. Nursing Students should review pre-administration assessments including lab values,
vital sign trends, and the medication administration record (MAR)) prior to
administration.
4. To make the administration process more efficient, Nursing Students are expected to
meet the clinical instructor or RN at the medication-dispensing machine at the agreed
upon time, prepared to answer questions, and with drug calculations completed.
5. In addition to using the barcode scanner, Nursing Students are required to identify the
patient by asking the patient to spell his or her name and state his or her date of birth.
6. Nursing Students are responsible for documenting all meds immediately.
7. Nursing Students are responsible for post-administration follow up and documentation
of the patients response.
8. Nursing Students must report immediately any unexpected changes in the patients
condition or unusual response to any medications.
Faculty - Clinical Instructor Responsibilities:
1. Clinical Instructors decide which nursing student will administer medications each day,
and depending on the instructors best judgment, which classes of medications can be
administered safely based on the students level of expertise and the patients
condition.
2. Clinical Instructors need to provide staff nurses with a list of nursing students and the
medications they will administer. Both students and clinical instructors are responsible
for relaying the following to the staff:
3. Which patients the nursing student will administer medications to and the time period
during which medications will be given.
4. Which medications, including oral, rectal, eye drops injections, IV piggybacks, prn
meds, etc. are the responsibility of the students, and if there are any medications that
the nursing students may NOT administer.
5. Any changes in medication administration plans in a prompt manner, so that no
medications are missed or given late.
6. Clinical Instructors are responsible for:
i. providing nursing students with an orientation to the Medication
Administration Record
ii. sharing the MSOE SON medication administration policy with nursing
staff as needed
iii. supervising nursing student to assure safety through checking the med
three times, ensuring that the drug and dose are appropriate, following
the patient identification process, and ensuring that the student follows
correct administration techniques, needle disposal, documentation, etc.
57

iv. holding students accountable for evaluating and understanding the

following core patient information and for showing evidence of core
knowledge (via med cards, verbal questioning, etc.) about the drug prior
to administration:
Core Patient Variables
Health status
Age, gender, culture/ethnicity and genetic profile, developmental status
Lifestyle and social habits (smoking, drinking, illicit drugs; use of over-the-counter meds, herbs,
and dietary supplements)
Recent food intake and nutritional status (Obese; alcoholic(wasnt this under health status?);
malnourished)
Height, weight, and/or BMI to calculate weight-based dosages
Current physical assessment: vital signs, muscle mass; LOC, ability to understand teaching and
cooperate
Lab results
Allergy history; previous drug reactions
Concurrent meds
Any issues that could impair ability to swallow
Client & family values and preferences
Condition of skin prior to administration of transdermal meds and injections:
Core Drug Knowledge
How does the drug work in the body? What physiological effects does it trigger?
What conditions does this drug treat? What are the desired therapeutic effects of the drug?
Contraindications and precautions: Which kinds of patients should NOT receive this drug? Are
there conditions or circumstances during which this drug should NOT be used, or must it only
be used cautiously with close monitoring?
Adverse effects: What are common and serious unintended or undesirable effects of the drug?
Are there any potentially toxic effects from this drug?
Drug interactions: What effects occur when drug is given with other drug, food, or substance?
Monitoring: Are lab tests needed to ensure safe use before or during the drug therapy?
Are there any special instructions re: route, preparation, or timing of administration?
What should the client or family be taught to ensure safe and effective use of this drug?
Source: Aschenbrenner & Venable (2009)

58

The Nursing Process as applied to medication administration

Assessment:
1. Review of Core Patient Variables along with allergy history prior to preparing the drug.
2. Check vital signs, review labs, or obtain other pertinent pre-administration assessment
data.
Planning:
1. Demonstrate Core Drug Knowledge and answer questions about the drug, including
what should happen as a result of receiving this drug.
2. Identify any drug-specific administration steps.
3. Show the instructor or staff RN calculations used to determine the correct drug dose.
4. Select the proper equipment and use safe, aseptic technique to prepare the drug.
5. Label any medication removed from its original packaging that is either not prepared in
the patients presence or not immediately administered.
Intervention:
1. Check the medication three times prior to administration.
2. Identify the patient using two additional identifiers in addition to the bar code scanner.
3. Inform the client about the drug and its purpose, and answer any questions about the
drug.
4. Use correct technique when administering the medication.
5. Ensure infection control and safe disposal of needles.
6. Teach the patient and family about the expected response to the drug and about any
changes that should be reported to the nurse.
7. Take steps to protect the patient from falls or other hazards associated with use of the
drug.
8. Record the drug administration immediately.
Evaluation:
1. Evaluate and document the clients response to the medication.
2. Keep the instructor and staff RN informed about any untoward responses to the drug.
3. Evaluate and report the patients and familys response to teaching about the drug.
4. Reinforce their understanding as needed and address any need for continued education.
References
Aschenbrenner, D.S., Venable, S.J. (2009). Drug therapy in nursing, 3rd ed. Philadelphia:
Lippincott
Gregory, D., Guse, L., Davidson Dick, D., Russell, C. (2008). The Question of Safety: An
Exploration of Errors among Undergraduate Nursing Students Placed on Clinical Learning
Contracts. Manitoba Institute for Patient Safety.
Institute for Safe Medication Practices. (2007). Error-prone conditions that lead to student
nurse-related errors. Retrieved from:
http://www.ismp.org/newsletters/acutecare/articles/20071018.asp
Institute for Safe Medication Practices. (2012). ISMPs List of High-Alert Medications. Retrieved
from: http://www.ismp.org/tools/institutionalhighAlert.asp
Lehne, R.A. (2010). Pharmacology for nursing care (7th ed.) St. Louis: Saunders.
59

Pt
Rm

Student
Name

Medication Administration Policy

MSOE SON
Student Nurse Assignments
Date: _________________
Instructor:______________Phone: ______________________
We will be on the unit from ______________ to ________________.
RN
Will
Will give meds
PRNs only IV meds
student
from ___ to ___
give meds?

IVPB

Students may NOT, at any time give meds without the direct, in the room presence of either their
instructor or the RN. If the student cannot meet the 30- minute deadline for med administration, the
student is responsible for promptly notifying both the instructor and the RN, so the RN can give the
medication. The nursing student can assist by performing any pre- and post-administration
assessment and/or evaluation of the drugs effectiveness and other information related to the
patients response.
Students may NOT give the following meds without the instructors direct supervision:
______________________________________________

60

Example of Instructors Medication Cards for Nurses

___________ is providing care to ________________
Student
Patient
will administer stated meds under supervision of
instructor
1700 _______________________________________
1730 _______________________________________
1800 _______________________________________
1830 _______________________________________
1900 _______________________________________
2000 _______________________________________
2100 _______________________________________
PRN Medications ______________________________
___________ is providing care to ________________
Student
Patient
will administer stated meds under supervision of
instructor
1700 _______________________________________
1730 _______________________________________
1800 _______________________________________
1830 _______________________________________
1900 _______________________________________
2000 _______________________________________
2100 _______________________________________
PRN Medications _____________________________
___________ is providing care to ________________
Student
Patient
will administer stated meds under supervision of
instructor
1700 ________________________________________
1730 ________________________________________
1800 ________________________________________
1830 ________________________________________
1900 ________________________________________
2000 ________________________________________
2100 ________________________________________
PRN Medications ______________________________
___________ is providing care to ________________
Student
Patient
will administer stated meds under supervision of
instructor
1700 ________________________________________
1730 ________________________________________
1800 ________________________________________
1830 ________________________________________
1900 ________________________________________
2000 ________________________________________
2100 ________________________________________
PRN Medications _______________________________

___________ is providing care to ________________

Student
Patient
will administer stated meds under supervision of
instructor
1700 ______________________________________
1730 ______________________________________
1800 ______________________________________
1830 ______________________________________
1900 ______________________________________
2000 ______________________________________
2100 ______________________________________
PRN Medications
________________________________
___________ is providing care to ________________
Student
Patient
will administer stated meds under supervision of
instructor
1700 ________________________________________
1730 ________________________________________
1800 ________________________________________
1830 ________________________________________
1900 ________________________________________
2000 ________________________________________
2100 ________________________________________
PRN Medications _______________________________
___________ is providing care to ________________
Student
Patient
will administer stated meds under supervision of
instructor
1700 ________________________________________
1730 ________________________________________
1800 ________________________________________
1830 ________________________________________
1900 ________________________________________
2000 ________________________________________
2100 ________________________________________
PRN Medications ______________________________
___________ is providing care to ________________
Student
Patient
will administer stated meds under supervision of
instructor
1700 ________________________________________
1730 ________________________________________
1800 ________________________________________
1830 ________________________________________
1900 ________________________________________
2000 ________________________________________
2100 ________________________________________
PRN Medications ______________________________

61