STUDENT HANDBOOK
ASSOCIATE DEGREE
NURSING PROGRAM
A
MERICAN RIVER COLLEGE
NURSING DEPARTMENT
REVISED AUGUST 2022
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 i
T
ABLE OF CONTENTS
Open Letter to New Students ..................................................................................................................................... vi
Nursing Faculty ......................................................................................................................................................... vii
Campus Phone Numbers & Campus Map (Link) ......................................................................................................viii
Overview of ARC Nursing Program
Goal .......................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Philosophy................................................................................................................................................................. 10
ARC Nursing Curriculum Concept-Based Approach ................................................................................................. 12
Course Descriptions .................................................................................................................................................. 14
NURSE 400 – Nursing Patient & Healthcare Concepts I ................................................................................. 14
NURSE 410 – Nursing Patient & Healthcare Concepts II ................................................................................ 14
NURSE 420 – Nursing Patient & Healthcare Concepts III ............................................................................... 14
NURSE 430 – Nursing Patient & Healthcare Concepts IV .............................................................................. 15
NURSE 305 – Transition to Nursing, Patient, & Healthcare Concepts for the Associate Degree Nurse ........ 15
Student Learning Outcomes ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Evaluation of Learning Experiences .......................................................................................................................... 17
Theory Performance ........................................................................................................................................ 17
Clinical Performance ....................................................................................................................................... 17
Clinical Skills Checklist .................................................................................................................................... 17
Method of Grading ........................................................................................................................................... 18
Math Testing Process ...................................................................................................................................... 19
Additional Learning Opportunities ................................................................................................................... 20
Core Competencies......................................................................................................................................... 20
Educational Student Learning Outcomes and Core Competencies ................................................................. 21
Program Evaluation ................................................................................................................................................... 36
Faculty Evaluation ........................................................................................................................................... 36
Clinical Professor Evaluation ........................................................................................................................... 36
Course and Clinical Facility Evaluations .......................................................................................................... 36
Program Evaluation ......................................................................................................................................... 36
Graduate Surveys ........................................................................................................................................... 36
Post Graduate Employer Survey ..................................................................................................................... 36
Student Participation ................................................................................................................................................. 36
When Extra Help is Needed ...................................................................................................................................... 37
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)
American River College Student Rights and Responsibilities
Student Rights ........................................................................................................................................................... 40
Student Responsibilities ............................................................................................................................................ 41
Standards of Student Conduct ........................................................................................................................ 41
Student Grievance Policy ................................................................................................................................ 42
Sexual Harassment Policy ............................................................................................................................... 42
Drug and Alcohol Policy .................................................................................................................................. 42
Non-Discrimination Policy ............................................................................................................................... 42
Academic Integrity & Academic Honesty ......................................................................................................... 42
The Nursing Student’s Professional Responsibilities
Attendance Policy ..................................................................................................................................................... 44
Absence Policy .......................................................................................................................................................... 45
Student Absence ............................................................................................................................................. 45
Professor Clinical Absence .............................................................................................................................. 45
Injury – Illness ................................................................................................................................................. 45
Accidents ......................................................................................................................................................... 45
Essential Functions Required of Nursing Students in Clinical ................................................................................... 46
Motor Capability .............................................................................................................................................. 46
Sensory Capability .......................................................................................................................................... 46
Communication Capability ............................................................................................................................... 46
Problem Solving Ability .................................................................................................................................... 47
Guidelines for Professional Conduct in Clinical ......................................................................................................... 48
Personal Appearance ...................................................................................................................................... 48
Uniform Dress Code ........................................................................................................................................ 48
Required Clinical Supplies ............................................................................................................................... 49
General Standards of Conduct .................................................................................................................................. 49
Professional Attitude ....................................................................................................................................... 49
Professional Appearance ................................................................................................................................ 49
Professional Behavior ..................................................................................................................................... 49
Standard of Competent Performance ........................................................................................................................ 50
Nursing Program Specific Student Responsibilities .................................................................................................. 50
Use of Student Car for Special Transportation ................................................................................................ 50
Personal Health and Accident Insurance ......................................................................................................... 50
Health Clearance ............................................................................................................................................. 50
Health Requirements ....................................................................................................................................... 50
Malpractice Insurance ..................................................................................................................................... 50
Current Address/Email .................................................................................................................................... 50
Course Requirements ..................................................................................................................................... 50
Copies of Clinical Evaluations ......................................................................................................................... 51
Student Request for Letter and/or Completion of Form from Faculty and/or Director ...................................... 51
Background Verification .................................................................................................................................. 51
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)
The Nursing Student’s Professional Responsibilities
Nursing Program Specific Student Responsibilities
Drug Screening ............................................................................................................................................... 51
Access to Electronic Medical Records – Provision of Student Identifiers ........................................................ 52
Nursing Program Policies, Procedure, and Guidelines
Reasons for Dismissal .............................................................................................................................................. 54
Excessive Absences ....................................................................................................................................... 54
Unprofessional Conduct .................................................................................................................................. 54
Underachievement .......................................................................................................................................... 54
Dishonest or Unethical Conduct ...................................................................................................................... 54
Impaired Student Policy ............................................................................................................................................ 55
Cheating & Plagiarism Policy .................................................................................................................................... 55
Examination Procedures ........................................................................................................................................... 55
Computerized Testing Policy ..................................................................................................................................... 56
HIPAA Compliance Policy ......................................................................................................................................... 57
Social Media Policy ................................................................................................................................................... 58
Guidelines for Student: Problem Resolution ............................................................................................................. 59
Guidelines for Student: Discrimination and/or Sexual Harassment .......................................................................... 59
Student Re-Entry Information & Procedures ............................................................................................................. 60
General Considerations ................................................................................................................................... 60
Priorities for Program Admission ..................................................................................................................... 61
Priorities for Re-Entry ...................................................................................................................................... 61
Graduation: Information & Requirements ................................................................................................................. 62
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 iv
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Implementation of Student Counseling, Root Cause Analysis, Memo and
Educational Agreement ................................................................................................................... 64
Quality Improvement ............................................................................................................. 64
Policy ........................................................................................................................... 64
Procedure .................................................................................................................... 64
Root Cause Analysis Report ................................................................................. 64
Memo .................................................................................................................................... 65
Educational Agreement ......................................................................................................... 65
Root Cause Analysis Report form ......................................................................................... 66
Appendix B: Elected Representatives ................................................................................................................. 68
Curriculum/Policy Committee Representative ....................................................................... 68
Faculty Meeting Representative ............................................................................................ 68
Pinning Ceremony........................................................................................................................... 68
American River College Student Nurse Association ....................................................................... 68
Approval for Attendance at State and National Conventions........................................................... 69
Appendix C: Drug and Alcohol Free Workplace and College Premises Policy P2443 ......................................... 70
Appendix D: Procedure for Reporting Exposure to Blood-Borne Pathogens ....................................................... 71
Appendix E: Board of Registered Nursing - "Standards of Competent Performance" ......................................... 72
Appendix F: Policy and Procedure Regarding the Student with Disruptive Behavior, Chemical, and/or
Emotional Impairment ..................................................................................................................... 73
Important Information Regarding Licensure .................................................................................... 73
Nursing Faculty Policy and Procedure Regarding Disruptive Behavior, Chemical, and/or
Emotional Impairment ..................................................................................................................... 74
Policy ..................................................................................................................................... 74
Procedure .............................................................................................................................. 74
Assessment .................................................................................................................. 74
Intervention ................................................................................................................... 75
Administrative Action ..................................................................................................... 76
Good Cause Defined ............................................................................................................. 77
Health Referral and Clearance Form .............................................................................................. 78
Appendix G: Background Checks for Student Clinical Placement ....................................................................... 79
Frequently Asked Questions Related Background Checks ............................................................. 80
Appendix H: Accommodation Checklist ............................................................................................................... 82
Appendix I: Academic Checklist ......................................................................................................................... 83
Semester One – NURSE 400 ......................................................................................................... 83
Semester Two – NURSE 410 ......................................................................................................... 83
Semester Three – NURSE 420 ....................................................................................................... 83
Semester Four – NURSE 430 ......................................................................................................... 84
BRN Application and Licensure ...................................................................................................... 84
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 v
APPENDICES (CONTINUED)
Appendix J: Reporting Prior Conviction or Discipline Against Licenses .............................................................. 86
Appendix K: Labs Manuals .................................................................................................................................. 87
Computer Lab ....................................................................................................................... 88
Student Acceptable Use Policy .................................................................................... 89
Network ................................................................................................................. 90
Internet .................................................................................................................. 90
Inappropriate Language or Materials .................................................................... 91
Skills Lab ............................................................................................................................... 92
Student Responsibilities and Usage Agreement .......................................................... 93
Simulation Lab ...................................................................................................................... 94
Student Usage Agreement .......................................................................................... 95
Safety Manual ....................................................................................................................... 96
Safety Policy ................................................................................................................ 96
General Guidelines ...................................................................................................... 96
Lab Guidelines............................................................................................................. 96
Skills Lab Safety .......................................................................................................... 97
Reporting of an Injury .................................................................................................. 98
Cleaning of Laboratory and Equipment ....................................................................... 99
Hazardous Waste Disposal ......................................................................................... 99
Appendix L: Accountability Form ....................................................................................................................... 100
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 vi
DESTINATION:
REGISTERED NURSE
OPEN LETTER TO NEW STUDENTS
Congratulations on being accepted into the American River College Associate Degree Nursing
Program. The faculty welcomes you and wishes you success.
This handbook contains important information and requirements of the Nursing Program. You need to
review this handbook at the beginning of and throughout each semester, as you will be held
accountable for the information and requirements contained within this handbook.
This handbook will be a useful tool to you as you progress through the Nursing Program. We wish to
extend our welcome and best wishes to you as you begin your nursing journey.
Sincerely,
The Nursing Faculty
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 vii
NURSING FACULTY
Interim Director, Nursing Academic Programs Telephone Number
Finn-Romero, Deborah (2022) ............................................................................................................. (916) 484-8335
DNP- Duquesne University, Pittsburgh PA;
MSN, CSU, Sacramento;
BSN, CSU, Chico;
ADN, American River College
Nursing Professors:
Bartoe, Timothy (2018) ........................................................................................................................ (916) 484-8878
MSN, BSN, Kaplan University;
ADN, American River College
Dupree, Anna (2022)............................................................................................................................ (916) 484-8178
MSN, UC Davis Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, Sacramento;
BSN, CSU, San Marcos
Garner, Cheri (2008) ............................................................................................................................ (916) 484-8313
MSN/ED, BSN, University of Phoenix
Kirkman, Jayanti “Jen” (2018) .............................................................................................................. (916) 484-8737
MSN, Walden University;
ADN, American River College
Legaspi, Mari Anne (2019) ................................................................................................................... (916) 484-8251
MSN, FNP, Azusa Pacific;
BSN, Mount Saint Mary’s University
Mentink, Kathleen (2004) ..................................................................................................................... (916) 484-8348
MSN, UC Davis;
BSN, CSU, Sacramento
Nowicki, Lazette (2008)........................................................................................................................ (916) 484-8876
DNP, Grand Canyon;
MSN, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND;
BSN, Jamestown College, Jamestown, ND
Parrinella, Lisa (2006) .......................................................................................................................... (916) 484-8678
EdD, Capella University; MSN, Cal State Dominquez, Carson;
BSN, University of Phoenix, Sacramento;
ADN, Chabot College, Hayward
Rodgers, Monique (2019) .................................................................................................................... (916) 484-4526
DNP, MSN, Grand Canyon University;
BA, CSU, Sacramento;
ADN, American River College
Sanborn, Stacie (2021) ....................................................................................................................... (916) 484- 8874
MSN, CNS University of California, San Francisco;
BSN, University of Hawaii
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 viii
NURSING FACULTY OFFICE HOURS
Nursing faculty have designated office hours which promote opportunity for student involvement with the faculty. These hours
are posted on each faculty member’s office door and on each course’s Canvas site at the beginning of each semester. If a
student is unable to meet with a faculty member during their posted office hours, the student must contact the faculty member
to arrange a mutually acceptable time to meet.
NURSING PROGRAM SPECIFIC PHONE NUMBERS
Health and Education Division Office ......... (916) 484-8902 Skills Lab .................................................... (916) 484-8735
Nursing Department ................................... (916) 484-8254 Computer Lab ............................................ (916) 484-8360
Simulation Lab ........................................... (916) 484-8322
CAMPUS PHONE NUMBERS
Use 916 are code and the prefix 484 when dialing from off campus.
Student Services Ext.
Admissions/Records/Transcripts ................................. 8261
Assessment Center ..................................................... 8423
Career and Pathways .................................................. 8492
Child Development Centers ........................................ 8651
Counseling & Transfer Services .................................. 8572
Disabled Students Services & Programs (DSP&S) ..... 8382
EOP&S ........................................................................ 8128
Financial Aid ................................................................ 8437
Health and Wellness Center........................................ 8383
Learning Disabilities .................................................... 8938
Lost & Found (Campus Police) ................................... 8019
Student Senate Office ................................................. 8471
Transfer Center ........................................................... 8685
Tutorial Center ............................................................ 8808
Veterans Resource Center ................................. 8135/8377
Work Experience ......................................................... 8182
Other Campus Offices Ext.
Bookstore – College Store .......................................... 8111
Business Services ....................................................... 8481
Cafeteria (Aramark)..................................................... 8328
CalWORKs Support Services ..................................... 8059
College Police ............................................................. 2221
Community & Diversity Center/UNITE ........................ 8948
Community Relations .................................................. 8646
eServices Registration Lab ......................................... 8152
International Students ................................................. 8774
Learning Resource Center .......................................... 8693
Library (Circulation) ..................................................... 8455
Click here for the Campus Map
OVERVIEW
OF THE
ARC
N
URSING PROGRAM
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 10
GOAL
The goal of the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program at American River College is to prepare an entry-level
registered nurse, who can function effectively in the rapidly changing healthcare environment.
The Associate Degree Nursing program supports the mission of American River College to provide high quality
education for a diversity of students, to develop integrity and intellectual curiosity, and to prepare students for
the challenge of social, economic, and technological change. Furthermore, American River College is a premier
learning community that transforms and enriches people's lives. The faculty is committed to providing accessible,
success oriented, high quality nursing education to meet the diverse and changing healthcare needs of the
community and region, and to promoting the development of qualified students for the professional role of
registered nurse at the entry level. Graduates of this program meet the education requirements to take the
National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
PHILOSOPHY
The philosophy of the Associate Degree Nursing program embraces the nursing metaparadigm of patient,
environment, health, and nursing (Fawcett, 2005; Fawcett & DeSanto-Madeya, 2012), and the practice and
education of the Associate Degree Nurse. Within this philosophy, the goal of nursing faculty is to promote the
highest quality of nursing care to the patient.
The nursing faculty has defined the following terms as part of their philosophical beliefs regarding nursing and
nursing education.
The Associate Degree Nurse
The practice of nursing is directed toward meeting the healthcare needs of individuals throughout their lifespan.
The ADN prepared nurse’s role is characterized by evidence based clinical practice with the provision of care
for individuals and families in structured settings. The graduate of the Associate Degree Nursing program at
American River College demonstrates the entry-level competencies identified by the National Council of State
Boards of Nursing (2013), the Nursing Practice Act of California, the National League for Nursing (2010), and
the Institute of Medicine (2003) to provide nursing care.
Associate Degree Nursing Education
Nursing education at the associate degree level, at American River College, is a process that facilitates changes
in behavior, the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to function in the role of the entry-level
nurse. The curriculum is conceptually based and founded on principles of adult and collaborative learning. Basic
assumptions include self-direction, utilization of adult experience, problem and activity-centered learning
(Rachal, 2002).
The curriculum incorporates evidence based nursing theory and practice, general education, and the sciences
in an environment supportive of learning. The organizing framework is organized into three domains: the patient,
healthcare, and nursing. Within each domain are concepts and exemplars of those concepts, which represent
important practice phenomenon in nursing.
The conceptual approach is supported by a learning centered environment that provides the student tools for
accessing current information and promotes life-long learning. Learning is a continuous process that results in a
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 11
change of behavior and occurs when the individual is challenged and motivated to enhance personal knowledge.
Teaching and learning is an interactive process between teacher and learner. Utilizing principles of adult and
collaborative learning the responsibility of the faculty of American River College Associate Degree Nursing
Program is to facilitate the student’s understanding and ability to meet the competencies for nursing practice
through the design and evaluation of learning experiences. There are five types of learning experiences in the
program: concept based experience, case based experience, intervention skill based experience, focused direct
patient care experience, and integrative practicum (OCNE). The nursing student is responsible for actively
participating in learning experiences and develops the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to provide
quality patient centered nursing care.
The concept-based curriculum relies on principles of deductive learning. Students are exposed to core concepts,
exemplars of the concept, and interrelated concepts. Opportunities are provided to observe and participate in
both simulated and actual patient centered learning experiences. High-fidelity simulation provides high-impact
low-risk learning situations. Laboratory and clinical experiences are structured to allow application of concepts
and principles learned from classroom experience. Each semester of education builds upon previous learning
and provides opportunity for students to experience intentional learning, develop critical thinking and problem
solving skills, to understand connections among concepts, and to make sound decisions.
Patient
The patient is the individual, family, or group which includes significant others and the population (NCSBN,
2013). Each patient is a unique, multidimensional, and significant being who possesses inherent value and
worth. Each patient has dynamic physical, psychosocial, cultural, spiritual, and development needs that
contribute to health, quality of life, and achievement of potential. Patients have a right to health care and to
information that will assist them to participate actively in their health care in order to achieve wellness. In order
to provide and manage care, nurses must view the patient at the center of any nursing activity.
Environment
The environment is human beings’ significant others and physical surroundings as well as local, regional,
national, and worldwide cultural, spiritual, social, political, economic, and technological conditions that are
associated with human beings’ health.
Health
Health is the ever-changing human processes of living and dying, which exist on a continuum from wellness to
illness and end in death. The patient’s health is based on their perception and belief about health and illness
and their ability to adapt to internal and external forces.
Healthcare System
The Healthcare System is composed of the various macrosystems and microsystems (e.g. clinics, hospitals,
pharmacies, laboratories) that are interconnected via flows of patients and information to fulfill the purpose of
maintaining and improving health (IOM, 2001).
Nursing
Nursing is the actions taken by nurses on behalf of or in conjunction with patients, and the goals or outcomes of
nursing actions (Fawcett, 2005). Through the development of a therapeutic relationship with the individual and
significant support person(s), the nurse integrates the art of nursing with the scientific foundation for nursing
practice utilizing the nursing process of assessment, analysis, planning, intervention, and evaluation.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 12
Nursing actions provide safe care across the lifespan directed toward the goals of helping the patient prevent
illness and potential complications, protecting, promoting, restoring, and facilitating comfort; health; and dignity
in dying (NCSBN, 2013). The nurse functions autonomously and collaboratively with the patient and the
interdisciplinary team towards these goals.
Nursing draws on nursing science, natural physical and biological sciences, as well as the social sciences and
humanities (Benner, et. al. 2010). The ADN prepared nurse’s role is characterized by evidence based clinical
practice with the provision of care for individuals in structured settings.
Nursing is a dynamic profession and requires engagement in continuous, intentional, lifelong learning.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE NURSING CURRICULUM CONCEPT BASED APPROACH
Conceptual Model
The organizing framework for the nursing program is concept-based, identifying essential concepts related to
the domains of the patient, nursing, and healthcare. The concepts intrinsic to the patient are both biophysical
and psychosocial. The concepts intrinsic to the nursing profession are related to the core competencies of
nursing practice (Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, 2010) and incorporate the art of caring as
well as the science of nursing. Emphasis is on functioning in today’s healthcare environment and the future
healthcare environment. Nursing process and evidence based practice are the foundation for clinical decision
making in providing patient centered care. The concepts intrinsic to the healthcare system encompass
community and society. The healthcare system is the environment in which the individual receives care and in
which the nurse practices patient centered, collaborative care. The conceptual model provides a mental
paradigm to prepare learners for new instruction and motivates learning by making a meaningful connection for
the learner. The learner must attain mastery of each part of the framework in order to understand the complete
curriculum (Knowles, et. al. 2005). Core concepts are organized within each of these domains and learning
occurs from simple to complex.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 13
Patient Concepts (29)
Biophysical (22) Psychosocial (7)
Acid Base Balance
Cellular Regulation
Clotting
Comfort
Elimination
Fluid & Electrolyte Balance
Functional Ability
Gas Exchange
Immunity
Infection
Inflammation
Intracranial Regulation
Metabolism
Mobility
Nutrition
Perfusion
Reproduction
Sensory Perception
Sexuality
Sleep
Thermoregulation
Tissue Integrity
Cognition
Diversity
Grief & Loss
Health, Wellness & Illness
Human Development
Interpersonal Relationships
Mental Health
Nursing Concepts (6)
Healthcare Concepts (4)
Communication*
Leadership*
Patient Centered Care*
Professionalism*
Safety*
Teamwork & Collaboration*
Evidence Based Practice*
Informatics & Technology*
Quality Improvement*
Systems Based Practice
*Indicates core concepts
Core Competencies
The 9 core concepts (indicated by an asterisk above) and associated competencies provide primary direction to
the curriculum. They are designed to be applicable across all care settings and to encompass all patient
populations across the lifespan. The core competencies are the benchmark by which the program measures
course and overall program achievement. They provide the basis for classroom, lab, and clinical learning
activities and are further explicated by knowledge, skill, and attitude/behavior (KSA) outcome behaviors related
to each.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 14
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
The ARC Nursing Program is organized into four semesters. During each semester, there will be 4.5 hours of
seminar, and 18 hours of clinical per week occurring in various clinical settings. Required clinical rotations can
be on any shift or any day of the week and can change with limited notice. Generally, the first week of each
semester is devoted to course and clinical orientation.
Nurse 400 - Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts I
This course introduces essential concepts of safe and effective nursing care for patients across the lifespan,
utilizing the nursing process and evidence based practice.
It focuses on the introduction of the wellness/illness continuum and the core competencies of clinical practice.
The competencies include communication, leadership, patient centered care, professionalism, safety,
teamwork and collaboration, evidence based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement.
The clinical experience is designed to facilitate the fundamental acquisition of the core competencies of clinical
practice. Emphasis in clinical is placed on health assessment across the lifespan, recognition of alterations
from the norm, safety for patients and providers of care, interpersonal communication, patient centered care,
ethics, and safe, evidence based technical skill interventions.
Nurse 410 - Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts II
This course applies concepts of safe and effective nursing care for children, adults, and families, concentrating
on healthcare needs on the wellness/illness continuum across the lifespan.
It focuses on nursing management of the patient's response to health alterations as well as health promotion
for childbearing and childrearing families through the application of nursing knowledge, nursing process, and
evidence based practice.
The clinical experience is designed to facilitate the development of the core competencies of clinical practice:
communication, leadership, patient centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and collaboration,
evidence based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. Emphasis in clinical is placed
on family communication, patient education, teamwork and collaboration, clinical judgment, and management
of care.
Nurse 420 - Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts III
This course adapts concepts of safe and effective nursing care for adults experiencing acute and chronic
alterations across the wellness/illness continuum.
It focuses on nursing management of the adult patient's response to physical and mental health alterations
through the application of nursing knowledge, nursing process, and evidence based practice.
The clinical experience is designed to facilitate the development of the core competencies of clinical practice:
communication, leadership, patient centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and collaboration,
evidence based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. Emphasis in clinical is placed
on clinical judgment, interprofessional communication, patient centered care, safety, and team collaboration.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 15
Nurse 430 - Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts IV
This course integrates concepts of safe and effective nursing care for individuals and groups of patients across
the lifespan.
It is designed to facilitate integration of knowledge, evidence based practice, and clinical judgment in the
management of patients with complex healthcare needs, and to facilitate the student's transition into the
profession of nursing.
Clinical judgment skills are enhanced through advanced clinical experiences and role transition opportunities.
The clinical experience is designed to facilitate the development and demonstration of the core competencies
of clinical practice: communication, leadership, patient centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and
collaboration, evidence based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. Emphasis in
clinical is placed on evidence based practice, quality improvement, team collaboration concepts, managing
care for groups of patients, the role of the nurse in a systems based practice, interprofessional collaboration,
legal precepts, and health policy.
Nurse 305 - Transition to Nursing, Patient, and Healthcare Concepts for the Associate Degree
Nurse
This bridge course is designed for the California Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) who is admitted for advanced
placement into the second year of the Associate Degree Nursing (Registered Nurse) Program.
It introduces the concept based curriculum and the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential to nursing. The
course focuses on nursing management of the patient’s response to health alterations as well as health
promotion through the application of nursing knowledge, nursing process, and evidence based practice.
The clinical laboratory experience is designed to facilitate the development of the core competencies of clinical
practice: communication, leadership, patient centered care, professionalism, safety, teamwork and
collaboration, evidence based practice, informatics and technology, and quality improvement. Emphasis is
placed on health assessment across the lifespan, family communication, patient education, teamwork and
collaboration, role transition, clinical judgment, and management of care.
The American River College Nursing program faculty believes all students will benefit by having a full-time
professor during at least one of their medical-surgical rotations while in the Nursing Program. At the end of the
third semester, all student records will be reviewed to see that this criterion has been met. Students who have
only had adjunct professors for their medical-surgical rotations will be required to have a full-time professor for
their fourth semester clinical rotation.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 16
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (SLO)
The Nursing Program utilizes a concept based curriculum throughout the four semesters. Each semester's
theory and clinical objectives are leveled to reflect the progression toward increased depth, breadth, and
independence in the role of the nurse. Each semester builds upon the previous semester(s).
First Year Student Learning Outcomes (SLO):
1. Identify best current evidence from scientific and other credible sources as a basis for nursing practice and
clinical decision making.
2. Use information technology in the provision of patient care.
3. Participate in the implementation of quality improvement strategies to improve patient care.
4. Collaborate and communicate with diverse patients, families, and the interdisciplinary healthcare team to
plan, deliver, and evaluate care.
5. Employ leadership skills in the provision of safe, quality patient care.
6. Demonstrate behavior that reflects the values of the nursing profession including self awareness, a spirit of
inquiry, ethical comportment, effective communication, clinical judgment, and competence.
7. Adhere to standards of practice within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks of the professional nurse.
Second Year Student Learning Outcomes (SLO):
1. Employ clinical reasoning and knowledge based on the nursing program of study, evidence based practice
outcomes, and research based policies and procedures as the basis for decision making and delivery of
comprehensive, safe, patient centered care.
2. Utilize information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, and mitigate error.
3. Participate in quality improvement activities to measure patient outcomes, identify hazards and errors, and
to improve care.
4. Coordinate, collaborate, and communicate with diverse patients, families, and the interdisciplinary healthcare
team to plan, deliver, and evaluate care that promotes quality of life.
5. Demonstrate delegation, management, and leadership skills that integrate systems thinking, communication,
and change processes.
6. Demonstrate behavior that reflects the values of the nursing profession including self awareness, a spirit of
inquiry, leadership, ethical comportment, effective communication, clinical judgment and competence, and
mentorship.
7. Adhere to standards of practice within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks of the professional nurse.
Educational Student Learning Outcomes (SLO)
Upon completion of the Associate Degree Nursing Program, the graduate will be able to:
1. employ clinical reasoning and knowledge based on the nursing program of study, evidence based practice
outcomes, and research based policies and procedures as the basis for decision making and delivery of
comprehensive, safe, patient centered care.
2. utilize information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, and mitigate error.
3. participate in quality improvement activities to measure patient outcomes, identify hazards and errors, and
to improve care.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 17
4. coordinate, collaborate, and communicate with diverse patients, families, and the interdisciplinary healthcare
team to plan, deliver, and evaluate care that promotes quality of life.
5. demonstrate delegation, management, and leadership skills that integrate systems thinking, communication,
and change processes.
6. demonstrate behavior that reflects the values of the nursing profession including self awareness, a spirit of
inquiry, leadership, ethical comportment, effective communication, clinical judgment and competence, and
mentorship.
7. adhere to standards of practice within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks of the professional nurse.
EVALUATION OF LEARNING EXPERIENCES
THEORY PERFORMANCE
In the Nursing Program, there is only one grade for each semester, a combined performance grade that
includes both class and clinical work. Each semester may include formal and informal quizzes, research or
other papers, group presentations, and/or other learning experiences that may be scored. A student must attain
at least a "C" in theory and meet all core competencies to advance to the next semester.
The Nursing Program uses the following grading system:
100 – 90 = A
89 – 80 = B
79 – 78 = C
77 – 65 = D
Below 65 = F
CLINICAL PERFORMANCE
Student work in the clinical setting is evaluated on a "satisfactory," "unsatisfactory," or "needs improvement"
basis. Each course syllabus contains its specific clinical evaluation form containing the core competencies. To
pass the course, students need an overall "satisfactory" grade each semester in clinical. Regardless of theory
grade, satisfactory performance must be achieved in all critical elements by the end of each semester in order
to progress to the next semester. Students needing to change or improve clinical behaviors receive counseling.
"Implementation of Student Counseling" in the Appendix contains detailed information regarding counseling
procedures (Root Cause Analysis, Memos, and Educational Agreements). Refusal to comply with a clinical
agency requirements or the clinical agency refusing use of their environment for educational purposes may
result in dismissal from the program.
CLINICAL SKILLS CHECKLIST
A Clinical Skills Checklist is to be maintained by each student. The list consists of required and recommended
experiences that are appropriate for each semester. This list is to act as a guide to direct students in their
learning. It must be submitted each week with clinical paperwork. Lack of availability may prevent the student
from obtaining some experiences; this will not result in an incomplete or failed course. It is the student’s
responsibility to actively seek learning experiences. The list will be reviewed every week and at midterm
evaluation. The checklist is to be submitted to the student’s clinical professor for attachment to the final clinical
evaluation at the end of the course.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 18
METHOD OF GRADING
1. A final grade of 78 percent or better is required in each nursing course to pass successfully. The grade
earned in theory is comprised of course quiz and/or exam scores and HESI exam scores. Any course
may include clinical paperwork points; research or other papers, group presentations, and/or other
learning experiences that may be scored, but the points for clinical paperwork or any additional
assignments are not added to the theory grade until the required minimum of 78 percent needed to pass
the course is achieved.
2. If all clinical performance objectives have been met by the student, the grade recorded will be the result
of theory achievement. Students who do not achieve a satisfactory rating in all the Core Competencies
and/or are determined to have an overall unsatisfactory clinical performance will receive a total course
grade of "F" regardless of the theory grade achieved.
3. The evaluative procedure for computing the theory grade and the general and specific performance
criteria for each course will be explained on the first day of class. Each course syllabus will also contain
this information. Examinations are to be taken on the day and time scheduled. (See Student’s
Professional Responsibilities.)
4. Students failing their first exam in any course will receive a “Failed Exam Memo.” Any student receiving
a "D" or "F" in any course at midterm will receive a “Failing at Midterm Memo.” It is the philosophy of the
faculty that early intervention increases time for remediation and enhances student success.
5. A “Failing Going into the Final Educational Agreement” will be issued to all students going into the final
exam with a grade less than 78%.
6. A Clinical Performance evaluation will be based on the student’s achievement of performance objectives
according to:
a. the general criteria on the “Student Evaluation” form;
b. specific criteria and requirements for each course; and
c. satisfactory performance in all designated Core Competencies.
Performance objectives are included in the syllabus of each nursing course. Assessment of the student's
progress will be done with the professor on an ongoing informal and formal basis and will include student
self-evaluation as well as reference to the professor’s clinical records. An interim evaluation conference
will be arranged according to each course’s requirements (Refer to each course’s clinical format for the
timeframe for interim evaluations.). A final evaluation conference will be arranged at the end of each
clinical rotation, and a summary of the evaluation conference will be written by the professor. The student
will sign the summary form they have read and may add comments. (Please refer to each course’s
“Student Evaluation” document for complete objectives.)
Factors other than a theory grade below "C" that will likely result in the assignment of a "D" or "F" grade
include, but are not limited to:
a. Consistent unsatisfactory performance following an Educational Agreement;
b. Unsafe practice;
c. Any episode of grossly negligent behavior;
d. Continual failure to submit assignments at prescribed time;
e. Excessive clinical or theory absence (see Attendance Policy); and/or
f. Failure to achieve "Satisfactory" in any one of the "Core Competencies."
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 19
7. Math exams will be given at the beginning of each nursing course. Each math exam must be passed
with 90%. The amount of time between the math exam and each retest will be individually determined.
Students will not be allowed to pass medications until successfully achieving at least 90% on the math
exam.
8. If a student drops out of the Nursing Program, re-entry will be subject to space availability and the criteria
in the Student Re-Entry Policy. An exit conference with the course professor and/or Nursing Director is
required. The Re-Entry Policy will be reviewed and recommendations for re-entry determined at the time
of the final conference. The student will receive written exit interview recommendations. A copy of the
exit interview will also be placed in the student’s file.
a. The student must also meet with the Re-Admission Committee prior to re-entry; this meeting will be
approximately 15 minutes in length. The student must be on time, professional, and ready to present
their case for readmission. The panel consists of faculty from each semester. This meeting will be
scheduled by the nursing office prior to the semester starting.
i. The student must bring documentation to demonstrate the plan of action agreed upon at the
time of their exit have been met or are in progress.
ii. The student will reiterate the reason for withdrawal/failure and the plan of action for success.
iii. Faculty will ask questions and evaluate the actions taken by the student to implement the plan
of action.
iv. The Re-Admission Committee will make recommendations for re-admission, which will be
reviewed by the Nursing Director.
v. Students re-entering program must redo background check and drug screening. Students
re-entering first and third semesters will need to pay for malpractice. All students will need to
ensure CPR, health requirements, and uniform are current.
MATH TESTING PROCESS
Year One (Semesters 1 & 2)
Test 1 – If failed, student must seek remediation before retesting.
Retest 1 – If failed, student will receive a Memo and continue to remediate before
retesting.
Retest 2 – If failed, student will receive an Educational Agreement and be referred as indicated
for further remediation.
Retest 3 – If failed, student will be dismissed from the course.
Year Two (Semesters 3 & 4)
Test 1 – If failed, student will receive a Memo and must remediate prior to retesting.
Retest 1 – If failed, student will receive an Educational Agreement and be referred for
further remediation.
Retest 2 – If failed, student will be dismissed from the course.
Note: Only SIMPLE, non-scientific calculators are allowable during math exams.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 20
ADDITIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
HEALTH AND EDUCATION DIVISION (HEED) LABORATORIES
The Nursing Program and its students have access to three HEED laboratories: Skills, Simulation, and
Computer. The Skills Lab is available to reinforce and update specific nursing skills. The Simulation Lab
provides a realistic patient care experience with human patient simulators that react physiologically to nursing
interventions. The Health and Education Computer Lab is available for required class work, enrichment, or
absence make up hours. A manual is in the Appendix further detailing the learning opportunities available in
each of the laboratories. Utilization of the laboratories varies; please speak with your professor regarding use
of these labs.
CORE COMPETENCIES
Core Competencies include those behaviors so important to nursing care and patient safety that failure to
perform them correctly is considered unsafe nursing practice. All Core Competencies are considered in the
ongoing evaluation of the student's clinical performance. The student is expected to satisfactorily perform the
following Core Competencies at all times:
1. Patient Centered Care: Recognizes the patient or designee as the source of control and full partner
in providing compassionate and coordinated care based on respect for the patient’s preferences,
values, and needs.
2. Evidence Based Practice: Integrates best current evidence with clinical expertise and
patient/family preferences and values for delivery of optimal heath care.
3. Safety: Minimizes harm to patients and providers through both system effectiveness and individual
performance.
4. Informatics and Technology: Uses information and technology to communicate, manage
knowledge, mitigate error, and support decision making.
5. Quality Improvement: Participates in the systematic process that healthcare organizations and
professionals use to continuously improve the quality and safety of healthcare systems.
6. Communication: Interacts effectively with patients, families, and colleagues, fostering mutual
respect and shared decision making, to enhance patient satisfaction and health outcomes.
7. Teamwork and Collaboration: Functions effectively within nursing and interdisciplinary teams,
fostering open communication, mutual respect, shared decision-making, team learning, and
development.
8. Leadership: Influences the behavior of others in a way that will facilitate the establishment and
acquisition/achievement of shared goals.
9. Professionalism: Demonstrates accountability for the delivery of standard based nursing care that
is consistent with moral, altruistic, legal, ethical, regulatory, and humanistic principles.
Please refer to the “Educational Student Learning Outcomes and Core Competencies” table on the next
page for the individual knowledge, attitudes, and skills (KAS) needed to successfully achieve each Core
Competency. Satisfactory performance must be achieved in all Core Competencies by the end of the current
semester in order to progress to the next semester.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 21
Educational Student Learning Outcomes and Core Competencies
Each student learning outcome (SLO) is supported by one or more of the 9 core
competencies. For each competency, a definition is provided that identifies the expectations
for the nurse. Essential knowledge, attitudes and skills (KAS), reflecting the cognitive,
affective, and psychomotor domains of learning, are also specified for each competency.
The KAS’s come directly from the Nurse of the Future Nursing Core Competencies and
have been used with permission.
Educational Student Learning Outcome # 1
Use clinical reasoning and knowledge based on the nursing program of study, evidence
based practice outcomes, and research based policies and procedures as the basis for
decision-making and delivery of comprehensive, safe, patient centered care.
Core Competency: Patient-Centered Care
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1 Identifies components of nursing
process appropriate to individual, family,
group, community, and population health
care needs across the life span
A1a Values use of scientist inquiry, as an
essential tool for provision of nursing
care
A1b Appreciates the differences between
data collection and assessment
S1a Provides priority-based nursing care
to individuals, families, and groups
through independent and collaborative
application of the nursing process
S1b Demonstrates cognitive, affective,
and psychomotor nursing skills when
delivering patient care
K2 Understands that care and services
are delivered in a variety of settings
along a continuum of care that can be
accessed at any point
A2a Values and respects assessing
health care situation from the patient’s
perspective and belief systems
A2b Respects and encourages the
patient’s participation in decisions about
health care and services
S2 Assesses patient values, preferences,
decisional capacity, and expressed
needs as part of ongoing assessment,
clinical interview, implementation of care
plan, and evaluation of care
K3 Understands multiple dimensions of
patient-centered care including:
a. Patient/family/community
preferences, values
b. Coordination and integration of care
c. Information, communication, and
education
d. Physical comfort and emotional
support
e. Involvement of family and significant
other
f. Care transition and continuity
A3a Respects the patient’s perspective
regarding own health and concerns
S3a Communicates patient values, and
expressed needs to other members of
health care team
S3b Seeks information from appropriate
sources on behalf of patient
K4a Demonstrates understanding of the
human condition
K4b Describes how cultural diversity,
ethnic, spiritual and socioeconomic
backgrounds function as sources of
patient, family, and community values
A4a Values opportunities to learn about
all aspects of human diversity and the
inherent worth and uniqueness of
individuals and populations
A4b Recognizes impact of personal
attitudes, values and beliefs regarding
delivery of care to diverse clients
S4a Provides patient-centered care with
sensitivity and respect for the diversity of
human experience
S4b Implements nursing care to meet the
holistic needs of patient on
socioeconomic, cultural, ethnic, and
spiritual values and beliefs influencing
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 22
K4c Understands how human behavior is
affected by socioeconomics, culture,
race, spiritual beliefs, gender identify,
sexual orientation, lifestyle, and age
K4d Understands the effects of health
and social policies on persons from
diverse backgrounds and cultures
A4c Supports patient-centered care for
individuals and groups whose values
diver from their own
health care and nursing practice
S4c Works collaboratively with health
care providers from diverse backgrounds
and cultures
S4d Demonstrates caring practices
toward patient, significant others, and
groups of people receiving care
K5a Demonstrates comprehensive
understanding of health across the
continuum, including the concepts
A5a Appreciates the role of the nurse in
relieving all types and sources of pain
and suffering
A5b Recognizes the impact of personal
values and beliefs about the
management of pain and suffering and
end-of-life care
A5c Fosters strategies to promote health
maintenance/ motivation
S5a Assesses presence and extent of
physical and emotional comfort
S5b Elicits expectations of patient and
family for relief of pain, discomfort, or
suffering and end-of-life care
S5c Initiates treatments to relive pain and
suffering in light of patient values,
preferences, and expressed needs
Core Competency: Evidence-Based Practice
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1 Demonstrates knowledge of basic
scientific methods and processes
A1a Appreciates strengths and
weaknesses of scientific bases for
practice
A1b Values the need for ethical conduct
in practice and research
S1a Participates in the development of
clinical questions for potential research
S1b Critiques/appraises research for
application to practice
S1c Participates in data collection and
other research activities
S1d Follows the guidelines and
requirements pertaining to Human
Subject Protection for conducting
research
K2 Describes the concept of evidence-
based practice (EBP), including the
components of research evidence,
clinical expertise, and patient/family
values
A2 Values the concept of EBT as integral
to determining best clinical practice
S2 Bases individualized care on best
current evidence, patient values, and
clinical expertise
K3 Describes reliable sources for
locating evidence reports and clinical
practice guidelines
A3a Appreciates the importance of
relevant clinical evidence
S3 Locates evidence reports related to
clinical practice topics and guidelines
within appropriate databases
K4 Differentiates clinical opinion from
research and evidence summaries
A4 Appreciates that the strength and
relevance of evidence should be
determinants when choosing clinical
interventions
S4a Applies research and evidence
reports related to area of practice
S4b Understands the use of best practice
and evidence at the patient level and
across the system
K5 Explains the role of evidence in
determining best clinical practice
A5a Questions the rationale of
supporting routine approaches to care
processes and decisions
S5 Facilitates integration of new
evidence into standards of practice,
policies, and nursing practice guidelines
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 23
A5b Values the need for continuous
improvement in clinical practice based on
new knowledge
K6a Identifies evidence-based rationale
when developing and/or modifying
clinical practices
K6b Understands data collection
methodologies appropriate to individuals,
families, and groups in meeting health
care needs across the life span
A6 Acknowledges own limitation in
knowledge and clinical expertise before
seeking evidence and modifying clinical
practice
S6 Uses evidence and clinical
experience to decide when to modify
clinical practice
Core Competency: Safety
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1 Identifies human factors and basic
safety design principles that affect safety
A1 Recognizes the cognitive and
physical limitations of human
performance
S1 Demonstrates effective use of
technology and standardized practices
that support safe practice
K2 Describes the benefits and limitations
commonly used safety technology
A2 Recognizes the tension between
professional autonomy and
standardization
S2 Demonstrates effective use of
strategies at the individual and systems
levels to reduce risk of harm to self and
others
K3 Discusses effective strategies to
enhance memory and recall and
minimize interruptions
A3 Recognizes that both individuals and
systems are accountable for a safe
culture
S3 Uses appropriate strategies to reduce
reliance on memory and interruptions
K4a Delineates general categories of
errors and hazards in care
K4b Describes factors that create a
culture of safety
K4c Describes optimal processes for
communicating with patients/families
experiencing adverse events
A4a Recognizes the importance of
transparency in communication with the
patient, family, and health care team
around safety and adverse events
A4b Recognizes the complexity and
sensitivity of the clinical management of
medical errors and adverse events
S4a Participates in collecting and
aggregating safety data
S4b Uses organizational error reporting
system for “near miss” and error
reporting
S4c Communicates observations or
concerns related to hazards and errors
involving patients, families, and/or health
care team
S4d Utilizes timely data collection to
facilitate effective transfer of patient care
responsibilities to another professional
during transitions in care (“hard-offs”)
S4e Discusses clinical scenarios in which
sensitive and skillful management of
corrective actions to reduce emotional
trauma to patients/families is employed
S4f Participates in safety surveys
K5 Describes how patients, families,
individual clinicians, health care team,
and systems can contribute to promoting
safety and reducing errors
A5 Recognizes the value of analyzing
systems and individual accountability
when errors or near misses occur
S5 Participates in analyzing errors and
designing systems improvements
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 24
K6a Describes processes used in
understanding causes of error and in
allocation of responsibility and
accountability
K6b Discusses potential and actual
impact of established patient safety
resources, initiatives and regulations
K6c Describes the elements for
sustaining a High Reliable Organization
(HRO)
A6a Values the systems’ benchmarks
that arise from established safety
initiatives
A6b Values the importance for using a
model for applying the principles of
reliability to healthcare systems: prevent
failure, identify and mitigate failure and
redesign processes on identified failure
A6c Values the paradigm that works to
promote patient safety and efficient
healthcare delivery
S6a Uses established safety resources
for professional development and to
focus attention on assuring safe practice
S6b Participates within methods for
evaluating and improving the overall
reliability of a complex system
S6c Uses elements identified by AHRQ
when delivering care: awareness of
operations, reluctance to accept
excuses, preoccupation with failure,
deferring to expertise, continuous
resiliency
Educational Student Learning Outcome # 2
Use information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, and mitigate error
(QSEN).
Core Competency: Informatics and Technology
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1a Understands basic computer
science concepts
K1b Identifies the basic components of
the computer systems
A1 Recognizes the importance of basic
computer competence to evolving
nursing practice
S1a Demonstrates proficiency in:
• Concepts of information and
communication technology
• Foundations of basic computer
systems (i.e., software,
operating system, hardware,
networks, peripheral devices,
computer systems, internet and
web based applications,
wireless technology)
• Foundations of database
management
• Data Security
S1b Demonstrates proficiency in basic
computer skills related to personnel
management (i.e., admin), education,
and desktop software
K2a Describes Information Management
concepts (i.e., communication theories)
K2b Describes standardized terminology
in a care environment that reflects
nursing’s unique contribution to patient
outcomes
K2c Describes the foundation of Nursing
Informatics:
• Distinguishes between
healthcare and nursing
informatics
A2a Values the importance of nursing
data to improve nursing practice
A2b Appreciates the use of electronic
communications strategies in the delivery
of patient care
S2a Uses data, as presented through the
Electronic Health Record (E.H.R.). to
inform clinical decisions and deliver safe,
quality patient care
S2b Uses data from nursing and all
relevant sources, including technology, to
inform the delivery of care
S2c Uses informatics, and knowledge of
the larger healthcare delivery system, to
support and enhance patient care
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 25
• Describes Informatics
Knowledge and its relationship
to Regulations, Human
Factors, and Change
Management
K2d Describes an understanding of
electronic communication strategies
among healthcare providers in the
healthcare system
S2d Utilizes Electronic communication
strategies (E.H.R., mHealth, Personal
health records)
K3 Explains why information and
technology skills are essential for the
professional nurse
A3 Appreciates the necessity for all
health professionals to seek lifelong,
continuous learning of information
management
S3a Uses information and it’s sources,
critically and incorporates selected
information into his or her own
professional knowledge database
S3b Seeks education about how
information is managed in the care
setting
S3c Performs basic troubleshooting
when using applications
K4 Understands Core Components of the
E.H.R. and their application within the
larger health care information system:
• Core components of the E.H.R.
(Ancillary System, Clinical Data
Repository, Physician
Documentations, Bar-Coded
Medications Administration
(BCMA), Continuity of Care
Document transactions and
Decision Support)
• Nursing specific applications
and relationship to entire
E.H.R. (Clinical documentation,
Computerized Provider Order
Entry (CPOE), BCMA, Patient
Monitoring, Decision Support,
Clinical Guidelines)
• Consumer applications
• Social Media
K2d Describes an understanding of
electronic communication strategies
among healthcare providers in the
healthcare system
A4 Values the importance of technology
on patient care and quality and safety
outcomes
S4a Demonstrates skills in using patient
care technologies, information systems,
and communication devices that support
safe nursing practice
S4b Demonstrates proficiency in basic
computer skills related to communication,
and data access
S4c Utilizes telecommunication
technologies to assist in effective
communication in a variety of healthcare
settings
S4d Applies safeguards and decision
making support tools embedded in
patient care technologies and
information systems to support a safe
practice environment for both patient and
healthcare workers
S4e Utilizes E.H.R, systems to document
interventions related to achieving nurse
sensitive outcomes
S4f Applies patient care technologies as
appropriate to address the needs of a
diverse patient population
K5a Describes the E.H.R.
implementation process
K5b Identifies the different roles involved
in system design, analysis and
management, including core nursing
A5 Values nurses’ involvement in design,
selection, implementation and evaluation
of information technologies to support
patient care
S5a Participates in E.H.R. System
Implementation (i.e., system evaluation,
design implementation, testing, training,
optimization and project management)
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 26
responsibilities associated with an E.H.R.
implementation
K5c Defines informatics skills required in
system development (i.e., system
evaluation, design, testing, and training)
S5b Works in interdisciplinary teams to
make decisions regarding the application
of technologies and the acquisition of
data
S5c Recognizes that redesign of
workflow and care processes should
precede implementation of care
technology to facilitate nursing practice
S5d Participates in evaluation of
information systems in practice settings
through policy and procedure
development
K6a Describes patient access, rights and
engagement as pertain to E.H.R.
K6b Understands the principles of data
integrity, professional ethics and legal
rights of the patient
A6 Recognizes that greater patient
engagement contributes to better health
outcomes
S6a Utilizes strategies to protect data
and maintains data integrity
S6b Upholds ethical standards related to
data security, regulatory requirements,
confidentiality, and clients’ right to
privacy
S6c Teaches patients about healthcare
technologies
S6d Adapts the use of technologies to
meet patient needs
K7a Describes how technology and
information management are related to
the quality and safety of patient care
K7b Describes the role of information
technology in improving patient care
outcomes and creating a safe care
environment
A7a Appreciates the limits of technology,
recognizing there are nursing practices
that cannot be performed by computers
or technology
A7b Appreciates the contributions of
technology as a tool to improve patient
safety and quality
S7a Uses data and statistical analysis to
evaluate practice, perform quality
improvement and enhance patient safety
S7b Uses information Management tools
to monitor outcomes of care process
S7c Advocates for the use of new patient
care technologies for safe, quality care
K8 Describes the integration of research
and evidenced based practice into the
E.H.R.
A8 Values technology as a tool for
generating knowledge and guiding
clinical practice
S8a Conducts on-line literature searches
S8b Provides for efficient data collection
S8c Uses applications to manage
aggregated data
S8d Integrates evidenced based
standards to support clinical practice
K9 Describe emerging areas of
informatics that will influence the
development of the E.H.R., patient care
and professional practice
A9 Values informatics as an evolving
discipline
S9 Discusses the value of emerging
trends (i.e., Health care Information
Exchange, Data Analytics, Population
Health Management, Patient and Family
Engagement) and how they will influence
healthcare reform
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 27
Educational Student Learning Outcome # 3
Participate in quality improvement activities to measure patient outcomes, identify hazards
and errors, and to improve care.
Core Competency: Quality Improvement
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1 Describes the nursing context for
improving care
A1 Recognizes that quality improvement
is an essential part of nursing
S1a Actively seeks information about
quality initiatives in their own care
settings and organization
S1b Actively seeks information about
quality improvement in the care setting
from relevant institutional, regulatory and
local/national sources
K2 Comprehends that nursing
contributes to systems of care and
processes that affect outcomes
A2 Recognizes how team collaboration
is important to quality improvement and
values the input from the
interprofessional team
S2 Participates in the use of quality
improvement model and tools to make
processes of care interdependent and
explicit
K3 Explains the importance of variation
and measurement in providing quality
nursing care with awareness, of diverse
populations and/or issues
A3a Appreciates how standardization
supports quality patient care
A3b Recognizes how unwanted variation
compromises care
S3 Participates in the use of quality
improvement tools to assess
performance and identify gaps between
local and best practices
K4 Describes approaches for improving
processes and outcomes of care
A4 Recognizes the value of what
individuals and teams can do to improve
care processes and outcomes of care
S4a Participates in the use of quality
improvement practices and implements
changes in the delivery of care with
consideration for population based
health care
S4b Implements best practices for
preventing harm
Educational Student Learning Outcome # 4
Coordinate, collaborate and communicate with diverse patients, families and the
interdisciplinary healthcare team to plan, deliver, and evaluate care that promotes quality of
life.
Core Competency: Communication
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1a Understands the principles of
effective communication through various
means
K1b Knows grammar, spelling, and
health care terminology
A1a Accepts responsibility for
communicating effectively
A1b Recognizes one’s individual
responsibility to communicate effectively
utilizing a collegial tone and voice
S1a Uses clear, concise, and effective
written, electronic, and verbal
communications
S1b Documents interventions and
outcomes of care according to
professional standards and work unit
policy
K2a Understands visual, auditory, and
tactile communication
A2a Values different means of
communication (auditory, visual, and
tactile)
S2a Chooses the right setting and time to
initiate conversation
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 28
K2b Understands the physiological,
psychological, developmental, spiritual,
and cultural influences on effective
communication
K2c Describes the impact of one’s own
communication style on others
A2b Values mutually respectful
communication
A2c Values individual cultural and
personal diversity
A2d respects persons’ rights to make
decisions in planning care
S2b Assesses the patient’s
readiness/willingness to communicate
S2c Assesses the patient’s ability to
communicate
S2d Utilizes patient preferences for
visual, auditory, or tactile communication
S2e Assesses barriers to effective
communication
S2f Makes appropriate adaptation in own
communication based on patient and
family assessment
S2g Assesses the impact of use of self in
effective communication
K3a Understands the nurse’s role and
responsibility in applying the principles of
verbal and nonverbal communication
K3b Understands the nurse’s role and
responsibility in applying the principles of
active listening
K3c Recognizes the value of validation
relationship
A3a Values the therapeutic use of self in
patient care
A3b Appreciates the dynamics of
physical and emotional presence on
communication
A3c Appreciates the influences of
physiological, psychosocial,
developmental, spiritual, and cultural
influences on one’s own ability to
communicate
A3d Acknowledges that acceptance of
another person’s behaviors will enhance
the therapeutic relationship and facilitate
communication
S3a Establishes rapport
S3b Actively listens to comments,
concerns, and questions
S3c Demonstrates effective interviewing
techniques
S3d Provides opportunity to ask and
respond to questions
S3e Assesses verbal and non-verbal
responses
S3f Adapts communication as needed
based on patient’s response
S3g Distinguishes between effective and
ineffective communication with patients
and families
S3h Utilizes selected forms and levels of
validation to minimize conflict and
enhance the therapeutic relationship
K4 Identifies techniques for reducing
violent and/or disruptive behavior
A4 Recognizes situations where de-
escalation techniques are required to
prevent violence and aggression levels of
validation to minimize conflict and
enhance the therapeutic relationship
S4 Utilizes verbal and non-verbal
communication skills to reduce and
manage violent and/or disruptive
behavior
Collegial Communication & Conflict Resolution
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K5a Understands what each health team
member uniquely provides in terms of
patient care
K5b Interprets differences in
communication styles among patients
A5a Cares about people as individuals,
valuing all members of the health care
team and their roles as important to
patient care
A5b Appreciates the contributions of
S5a Demonstrates empathy and concern
while ensuring organizational goals are
met
S5b Asserts views in a straightforward
unambiguous manner
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 29
and families, nurses, and other members
of the health team
K5c Understands the various modes to
communicate with members of the health
care team
K5d Discusses effective strategies for
communicating and resolving conflict
K5e Understands the principles of group
process and negotiation
K5f Acknowledges the presence of an
authority gradient in the healthcare team
others in helping patient and families
achieve health goals
A5c Recognizes the limitations of
electronic communication in real time
processing
A5d Recognizes that each individual
involved in a conflict has accountability
for it and should work to resolve it
A5e Acknowledges negotiation as a
strategy to identify mutually acceptable
ways to meet patient care objectives
A5f Accepts graded assertiveness as s
technique to communicate
S5c Selects the appropriate
communication mode (verbal v.
electronic) for the situation
S5d Uses standardized communication
approaches in all communications and in
care transitions
S5e Uses a structured to communicate
effectively with colleagues
S5f Contributes to resolution of conflict
through negotiation
S5g Expresses concern through a
stepped process, escalating as the safety
of the patient and the situation requires
K6 Identifies cultural variations in
approaches to interactions with others
A6 Identifies how one’s own personality,
preferences, and patterns of behavior
impact communication with others
S6 Applies self-reflection to better
understand one’s own manner of
communicating with others
K7 Examines the role of the nurse in
assuring patient privacy, security, and
confidentiality
A7 Accepts responsibility to maintain
patient confidentiality
S7 Distinguishes with members of the
healthcare team have a valid right to
know selected patient information
Teaching/Learning
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K8a Understands the influences of
different learning styles on the education
of patients and families
K8b Understands the differences in
auditory, visual, and tactile learning
styles
K8c Understands the principles of
teaching and learning
K8d Is aware of the three domains of
learning: cognitive, affective, and
psychomotor
K8e Understands the concept of health
literacy
K8f Understands the process of
cooperative learning
K8g Understands the purpose of health
education
A8a values different means of
communication used by patients and
families
A8b Recognizes learning styles vary by
individual
A8c Values the patient’s right to know the
reason for chosen interventions
A8d Values the need for teaching in all
three domains of learning
A8e Accepts responsibility to insure the
patient receives health information that is
understandable
A8f Values cooperative learning
strategies as a method to facilitate
learning
A8g Accepts the role and responsibility
for providing health education to patients
and families
S8a Assesses factors that influence the
patient’s and family’s ability to learn,
including readiness to learn, preferences
for learning style, and levels of health
literacy
S8b Incorporates facts, values, and skills
into teaching plan
S8c Assists patients and families in
accessing and interpreting health
information and identifying healthy
lifestyle behaviors
S8d Provides relevant and sensitive
health education information and advice
to patients and families
S8e Participates in cooperative learning
S8f Discusses clinical decisions with
patients and families
S8g Evaluates patient and family learning
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 30
Core Competency: Teamwork and Collaboration
Self
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1 Identifies own strengths, limitations,
and values in functioning as a member of
team
A1a Recognizes responsibility for
contributing to effective team functioning
A1b Appreciates the importance of
collaboration
A1c Recognizes the value of mutual
respect and collegial trust among team
members
S1a Provides Acts with honesty and
integrity when working with patients,
families, and team members
S1b Demonstrates self-awareness of
strengths and limitations as a team
member
S1c Initiates plan for self-development as
a team member
S1d Acts collaboratively with integrity,
consistency, and respect for diverse and
differing views
Team
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K2 Describes scope of practice, team
mission, objectives, norms and recourse
and roles of interdisciplinary and nursing
health care team members
A2 Values the perspectives and
expertise of all health team
S2a Functions competently within own
scope of practice as a member of the
health care team
S2b Uses knowledge of one’s own role
and those of other professions to
appropriately assess and address the
healthcare needs of the patients and
populations served
K3 Identifies contributions of other
individuals and groups in helping patients
and families achieve health goals
A3 Respects the centrality of the patient
and family as core members of any
health care team
S3a Practices collaborative decision-
making and practice through
accommodation, negotiation,
coordination and shared accountability
S3b Assumes the role of team member
or leader based on the situation
K4 Describes strategies for identifying
and managing overlaps in team member
roles and accountabilities
A4 Respects the unique professional and
cultural attributes that members bring to
a team
S4a Initiates requests for assistance
when situation warrants it
S4b Manages, within the scope of
practice, areas of overlap in role and/or
accountability in team member
functioning
S4c Integrates the contributions of others
in assisting patient/family to achieve
health goals
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 31
Team Communication
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K5 Understands the impact of the
effective collegial communication on
patient outcomes
A5 Values teamwork and relationships
upon which it is based
S5a Adapts own communication style to
meet the needs of the patient, family,
team and situation
S5b Demonstrates commitment to team
goals
S5c Solicits input from other team
members to improve individual and team
performance
S5d Shares instructive feedback on
performance in respectful ways
Team
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K6a Understands the impact of effective
team functioning on safety and quality of
care
K6b Discusses how authority and
hierarchy influence teamwork and patient
safety
A6a Recognizes the risks associated
with transferring patient care
responsibilities to another professional
(“hand-off”) during care transitions
A6b Appreciates patient-centered
problem solving as the overarching
framework for team’s a care delivery
process
S6a Follows communication practices to
minimize risks associated with transfers
between providers during care transitions
S6b Asserts own position/perspective in
discussions about patient care
S6c Chooses communication styles that
diminish the risks associated with
authority gradients among team
members
Impact of Systems on Team Functioning
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K7a Identifies systems factors that
facilitate or interfere with effective team
functioning
K7b Identifies lateral violence as a barrier
to teamwork and unit functioning
K7c Identifies civility as a facilitator of
effective teamwork and unit functioning
K7d Explores strategies for improving
work units to support team functioning
A7a Recognizes tensions between
professional autonomy and systems
factors
A7b Recognizes behaviors that
contribute to lateral violence
A7c Recognizes behaviors that promote
civility within the team and work setting
A7d Values the creation of system
solutions in achieving quality of care
S7a Contributes to effective team
functioning
S7b Practices strategies including
cognitive rehearsal to minimize lateral
violence
S7c Practices strategies including
patience, prudence, kindness, respect
and tact to encourage and support civility
S7d Participates in designing work units
that support effective teamwork
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 32
Educational Student Learning Outcome # 5
Demonstrate delegation, management, and leadership skills that integrate systems thinking,
communication, and change processes.
Core Competency: Leadership
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1 Identifies leadership skills essential to
the practice of nursing
A1 Recognizes the role of the nurse as
leader
S1 Integrates leadership skills of systems
thinking, communication, and facilitating
change in meeting patient care needs
K2 Understands critical thinking and
problem-solving processes
A2 Values critical thinking processes in
the management of client care situations
S2a Uses systematic approaches in
problem solving
S2b Demonstrates purposeful, informed,
outcome-oriented thinking
K3a Understands human behavior,
individual and group performance
K3b Identifies the roles and skills of the
health care team
A3a recognizes the centrality of a
interprofessional team approach to
patient care
A3b Values the diversity and inclusion of
perspectives and expertise of each
member of the health care team
S3a demonstrates ability to effectively
participate within health care teams
S3b Promotes a productive culture by
valuing and their contributions
S3c Models effective communication and
promotes cooperative behaviors
S3d Demonstrates tolerance for different
view points
K4 Understands the need to monitor
one’s own feeling and emotions, to
discriminate among them and use this
information to guide thinking and actions
A4a Recognizes that personal attitudes,
beliefs and experiences influence one’s
leadership style
A4b Recognizes the limits of one’s own
role and competence and, where
necessary, consults with other health
professionals with the appropriate
competencies
A4c Values fairness and open
mindedness
A4d Values an environment encouraging
creative thinking and innovations
A4e Values courage as a leadership skill
S4a Clarified biases, inclinations,
strengths, and self-limitations
S4b Adapts to stressful situations
S4c Seeks appropriate mentors
S4d Acts as an effective role model and
resource for students and support staff
S4e Demonstrates ability to stand up for
beliefs and does not avoid challenges
K5 Explains the importance, necessity,
and process of change
A5a Recognizes one’s own reaction to
change and strives to remain open to
new ideas and approaches
A5b Values new ideas and interventions
to improve patient care
S5a Implements change to improve
patient care
S5b Anticipates consequences, plans
ahead, and changes approaches to
improve outcomes
S5c Participates in the change process to
improve patient care, the work
environment, and patient and staff
satisfaction
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 33
K6 Understands the principles of
accountability and delegation
A6a Accepts accountability and
responsibility for one’s own professional
judgment and actions
A6b Accepts accountability for nursing
care delegated to others
A6c recognizes the values of delegation
S6 Delegates selected nursing activities
to unlicensed personnel to maintain or
improve the patient’s health and well-
being, or promote comfort
K7 Understands the complexity of the
health care delivery system including
how patient care services are organized
and financed, and how reimbursement is
structured
A7a recognizes the impact of
sociocultural, economic, legal, and
political factors influencing health care
delivery and practice
A7b Values the roles of provider groups
across the continuum of care
S7a Acts as a champion for health care
consumers and quality outcomes
S7b Understands and articulates
individual organization’s financial drivers
S7c Demonstrates an understanding the
complexity involved in decision making in
Health care relating to population
management across the continuum of
care
K8 Understand how health care issues
are identified, how health care policy is
both developed and changed
A8 recognizes how the health care
process can be influenced though the
efforts of nurses and other health care
professionals, as well as lay and special
advocacy groups
S8 Participates as a nursing professional
in political processes and grassroots
legislative efforts to influence health care
policy
K9 Understands the need to withstand,
recover or grow in the face of stressors
and changing demands
A9 recognizes the need to think about
the future instead of the past
S9a Seeks opportunities for ongoing
learning
S9b Demonstrates ability to work with
ambiguity and tension
S9c Focuses energy to achieve goals
and outcomes
K10 Articulates the impact of one’s own
leadership style in committing individuals
to action
A10 Recognizes the value of leadership
to empower others and enhance
collaboration and shared decision making
S10 Uses group discussion, agreement
and consensus building to enhance
collaboration and shared decision making
Educational Student Learning Outcome # 6
Demonstrate behavior that reflects the values of the nursing profession including self-
awareness, a spirit of inquiry, leader, ethical, communicator, clinical judgment and
competence, and mentor.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 34
Educational Student Learning Outcome # 7
Adhere to standards of practice within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks of the
professional nurse.
Core Competency: Professionalism
KNOWLEDGE
ATTITUDES/BEHAVIORS
SKILLS
K1a Understands the concept of
accountability for own nursing practice
K1b Justifies clinical decision
A1a Accepts responsibility for own
behavior
A1b Shows commitment to provision of
high quality, safe, and elective patient
care
S1a Demonstrates accountability for own
nursing practice
S1b Exercises critical thinking and
clinical reasoning within standards of
practice
K2 Describes legal and regulatory factors
that apply to nursing practice
A2a Values professional standards of
practice
A2b Values and upholds legal and
regulatory principles
S2a Uses recognized professional
standards of practice
S2b Implements plan of care within legal,
ethical, and regulatory framework of
nursing practice
K3 Understands the professional
standards of practice, the evaluation of
that practice, and the responsibility and
accountability for the outcome of practice
A3a Recognizes personal capabilities,
knowledge base, and areas for
development
A3b Values collegiality, openness to
critique, and peer review
S3a Demonstrates professional
comportment
S3b Provides and receives constructive
feedback to/from peers
K4a Describes factors essential to the
promotion of professional development
K4b Describes the role of a professional
organization shaping the culturally
congruent practice of nursing
K4c Understands the importance of
refection to advancing practice and
improving outcomes of care
A4a Committed to life-long learning
A4b Values the mentoring relationship for
professional development
A4c Values and is committed to being a
reflective practitioner
S4a Participates in life-long learning
S4b Demonstrates ability for reflection in
action, reflection for action, and reflection
on action
K5a Understands the concept of
autonomy and self-regulation in nursing
practice
K5b Understands the culture of nursing,
cultural congruence and the health care
system
A5 Recognizes the responsibility to
function within acceptable behavioral
norms appropriate to the discipline of
nursing and the health care organization
S5a Seeks ways to advocate for
nursing’s role, professional autonomy,
accountability, and self-regulation
S5b Promotes and maintains a positive
image of nursing
S5c Recognizes and acts upon breaches
of law relating to nursing practice and
professional codes of conduct
K6 Understands role and responsibilities
as patient advocate
A6 Values role and responsibilities as
patient advocate
S6 Serves as a patient advocate
K7 Understands ethical principles,
values, concepts, and decision making
that apply to professional nursing
practice, interprofessional collaboration
and patient care
A7a Values the application of ethical
principles in daily practice
A7b Values acting in accordance with
code of ethics and accepted standards of
practice
S7a Incorporates American Nurses
Association’s Code of Ethics into daily
practice
S7b Utilizes an ethical decision-making
framework in clinical situations
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 35
A7c Clarifies personal and professional
values and recognizes their impact on
decision making and professional
behavior
A7d Values acting with honesty and
integrity in relationships with patients,
families, and other team members across
the continuum of care
S7c Identifies and responds to ethical
concerns, issues, and dilemmas that
affect nursing practice
S7d Enlists system resources and
participates in efforts to resolve ethical
issues in daily practice
S7e Recognizes moral distress and
seeks recourses for resolution
K8a Understands responsibilities
inherent in being a member of the
nursing profession
K8b Recognizes the relationship
between personal health, self-care,
resilience and the ability to deliver
sustained quality care
K8c Recognizes the relationship between
clinic and social responsibility and
volunteerism with the advancement of
one’s own practice and the profession of
nursing
K8d Contributes to building and fostering
a nurturing & healthy work environment,
promoting health safety in the workplace
A8a Recognizes need for personal and
professional behaviors that promote the
profession of nursing
A8b Values and upholds altruistic and
humanistic principles
S8a Understands the history and
philosophy of the nursing profession
S8b Incorporates professional nursing
standards and accountability into practice
S8c Advocates for professional
standards of practice using organization
and political processes
S8d Understands limits to one’s scope of
practice and adheres to licensure law
and regulations
S8e Articulates to the public the values of
the profession as they relate to patient
welfare
S8f Advocates for the role of the
profession nurse as a member of the
interdisciplinary health care them
S8g Develops goals for health, self-
renewal, and professional development
S8h Assumes social and civic
responsibility through participation in
community volunteer activities
S8i Assumes professional responsibility
though participation in professional
nursing organizations
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 36
PROGRAM EVALUATION
Student input regarding learning experiences is vital to maintaining a high quality program. All program evaluations
are available online and can be completed via any ARC computer open for general student use or from home
through the college website. Student anonymity is maintained. Responses will be considered by faculty when
making course and program improvements. Students are encouraged to be candid.
FACULTY EVALUATION
All full-time faculty and ARC employed adjunct faculty are evaluated at least every three years according to
the college policy. Student questionnaires are anonymous, and the evaluation procedure is carried out by
a student in the absence of a faculty member.
CLINICAL PROFESSOR EVALUATION
Each semester students will complete clinical professor evaluations for all full-time and adjunct faculty.
COURSE AND CLINICAL FACILITY EVALUATIONS
At the end of each semester, students will be provided with an opportunity to confidentially evaluate the
course and clinical sites.
PROGRAM EVALUATION
At the end of the last semester in the Nursing Program, students will have the opportunity to evaluate the
entire Nursing Program. The focus of this evaluation is on program content and not individual faculty or
courses.
GRADUATE SURVEYS
Questionnaires are sent out twice a year to the previous years’ academic graduates. This information assists
the Nursing Program to evaluate our students’ preparation for a variety of work settings.
POST GRADUATE EMPLOYER SURVEY
Questionnaires will be enclosed with the nursing graduate surveys. The nursing graduate will provide this
questionnaire to their employer for completion. This form will allow the Nursing Program to seek feedback
from employers regarding ARC graduate transition to the staff RN role and ensure our graduates are well
prepared for nursing practice.
STUDENT PARTICIPATION
Student participation in program administration is highly valued. Students are encouraged to select
representatives to attend faculty, policy, and curriculum meetings; however, any nursing student is welcome to
attend any faculty, curriculum, or policy meeting. Additionally, students may decide to join the Student Nurse
Association as a means for greater involvement in the Nursing Program and nursing community – local, state, and
national. (See Appendix titled "Elected Representatives" for detailed information.)
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 37
WHEN EXTRA HELP IS NEEDED AT AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE
(Click links for more information)
Students going through intensive programs, such as the Nursing Program, may run into difficulties or need
additional support. When this occurs, early intervention is essential. If a student is in need of extra help at any
time they are encouraged to ask the professor(s), counselor, or the information officer at the college front reception
area for assistance. These resources promote student success.
Tutoring is often a process where the tutor gains as much as the one being helped. The Beacon Program is
available to students interested in becoming a paid tutor. (Beacon Tutoring)
American River College offers many support services for students. Examples of such services are as follows:
Admissions & Records
Official Transcript, Enrollment Verification, Admission and Records forms, Residency Reclassification, and
Graduation.
Placement and Assessment Center provides a variety of testing services. The Chemistry test is recommended
for students who wish to enroll in CHEM 400. Test results, along with other criteria, are used by counseling to
determine readiness for specific courses and programs. Competency testing for the AA/AS Degree is also
available through the Placement and Assessment Center. There is no fee for testing. Most results are available
immediately after the test and/or can be found in the student’s ARC eServices, under ‘Academic Records,
Placements’ within 24 hours. ESL results are available in three/four working days.
Bookstore meets all your textbook needs. While picking up school supplies, grab a snack or take a look at the
sweatshirts with our ARC logo!
The Career and Pathways Center offers an array of resources to assist students in choosing career options,
planning for college, and researching current job openings. One-hour career counseling appointments are
available. All services are provided at no extra charge. The Career Center offers workshops on resume writing
and interview information and techniques.
Center for Leadership and Development provides access cards, housing information, posting policy, student
rights and responsibilities, clubs and organizations, student government.
The Child Development Center provides early care and education programs for children. It is also an early
childhood education laboratory for students to work in the fields of early childhood education, nursing, child
development, speech-language pathology, and psychology. Our early care and education programs are offered
to student parents, college staff, faculty and the community.
The Counseling Center provides academic, career, and short-term personal counseling, to assist each student with
reaching their educational goals successfully. Services offered include educational planning and academic
counseling, career planning and counseling, transfer planning, and Human/Career Development classes.
Information on degrees and certificates, grading, and transferring is also available.
Disabled Student Programs & Services (DSPS) is specifically designed to open the doors to educational
opportunities for students with disabilities, promoting equal access to programs, services and facilities at ARC so
that students with disabilities have the opportunity to participate fully in campus activities. Specialized counseling
services, interpreters for the deaf, tutors, note takers, readers, test facilitators, adapted computers and mobility
aids are provided upon request. These services are free and are available throughout the year. The DSPS website
lists hours during semester and summer breaks.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 38
Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) is designed to recruit and assist college students who
show academic and financial need. EOPS promotes student success with educational planning and counseling,
priority registration, tutoring, and limited financial assistance. Participation is limited to California residents who
are eligible to receive BOGW (Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver A or B) grants.
eServices Registration Lab is located in located in the Student Center building. Students needing help with
enrollment (including application and registration) are encouraged to visit the eService Registration Lab.
The Financial Aid office provides assistance to students in obtaining the financial resources to achieve their
educational goals. They offer assistance with completing applications and explaining the requirements of the
various financial aid programs. Financial aid consists of federal grants, loans, work-study, state grants, fee
waivers, and outside scholarships.
The Health and Wellness Center at ARC is a nurse-directed center, which means that services are provided by
Public Health Nurses. The nursing staff may assess problems and make referrals to physicians, health agencies,
etc. as needed. They cannot, however, make medical diagnoses or prescribe treatment. All services except for
TB testing, immunizations, and titers are free.
The Learning Disabilities (LD) Program (under DSPS) provides learning disabilities assessment,
accommodations and services. Study strategies and support are available to students individually, in groups, and
in classrooms. In addition, the LD staff works with faculty to provide assistive technology for students.
The Learning Resource Center (LRC) is a professionally staffed facility offering students a personal approach to
academic success through classes, independent study, individualized tutoring, and alternative modes of instruction.
The LRC houses the Reading Center, the Writing Center, the English as a Second Language (ESL) Center, and the
Tutoring Center, among other services. In addition, the LRC houses the WAC (Writing Across the Curriculum)
program, the RAD (Reading Across the Disciplines) program, the Beacon Program, and the Foreign Language
program.
The Library provides students with research assistance, books, e-books, magazines and journals, DVDs and
videos, study space, and Internet access. Orientations are offered to introduce students to the use of the catalog,
research databases and Internet. Many library resources can be used from home, including e-books, e-reserves,
and the databases. In addition, many professors place textbooks and supplemental materials on reserve in the
library. Librarians also teach credit courses that can contribute to success at ARC and beyond.
Police (College) Emergency Response (916) 558-2221
Police services at American River College are located south of Davies Hall and north of the stadium in Parking
Lot G. Officers are provided by the Los Rios Community College District Police. Services include campus shuttle,
police escort, lost and found, and Operation ID.
The Veterans Resource Center (VRC) assists Veteran students and their families with their ARC educational
and VA related needs. Certifying Officials act as the link between students and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
To make the transition from military life to college easier, the center is committed to providing the best possible
care in appreciation for veteran’s sacrifice and service. The website lists hours during semester and summer
breaks.
The Guide to Student Rights and Responsibilities is cited in several places in the Student Handbook. It is a
great resource for Disciplinary, student grievances, equity, sexual harassment, Title IX, 504 Federal Regulations,
ADA compliance, etc.
ARC
S
TUDENT RIGHTS
AND
RESPONSIBILITIES
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 40
This ARC Nursing Student Handbook is a supplement to the ARC College Catalog and the ARC Guide to Student
Rights and Responsibilities handbook. As a student nurse here, remember you are also a member of the American
River College community, as well. Students are expected to familiarize themselves with this information.
As an institution of higher education, American River College is committed to the free exchange of ideas, respect for
the contributions and dignity of every person, and to a learning environment in which academic achievement and
personal responsibility are fostered and celebrated.
Students, faculty and staff of American River College benefit from the California Education Code and the Policies and
Administrative Regulations of the Los Rios Community College District. The policies provide the overarching policy
of the district on these subjects while the Administrative Regulations provide the specific processes to carry out these
policies. They specify the respective responsibilities of both the students and the college in the following areas:
Students’ Rights of Free Expression
Academic Integrity & Academic Honesty
Standards of Student Conduct
Student Disciplinary Procedures & Due Process
Non-Discrimination & Sexual Harassment
Student Grievance Process
S
TUDENT RIGHTS
1. In preparing student publications, the editorial staff and faculty advisors shall be free from censorship and
advance copy approval except as provided by published district policy, statutes, or campus regulation. Student
publications shall: (a) Adhere to canons of responsible journalism such as avoidance of libel, obscenity,
undocumented allegations, attacks on personal integrity, and the techniques of harassment and innuendo; (b)
State on the editorial page that the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the college or the student
body.
2. Students shall have the right to take stands on issues, the right to examine and discuss questions of interest
to them, and the right to support causes by orderly means which are in harmony with the regular functioning of
the institution.
3. Students shall have the right to hear speakers on any subject and on-campus recognized student organizations
shall have the right to present speakers on any subject. In addition, students shall have the right of free
assembly on each campus subject to regulations that assure the regular functioning of the institution. The
policies and regulations shall include reasonable provisions for the time, place and manner of conducting these
activities, but shall not prohibit the right of students to exercise free expression including, but not limited to, the
use of bulletin boards, the distribution of printed materials or petitions, and the wearing of buttons, badges and
other insignia. Expression which is obscene, libelous or slanderous according to current legal standards, or
which so incites students as to create a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts on college
premises, or the violation of lawful district or college regulations, or the substantial disruption of the orderly
operation of the college, shall be prohibited. These regulations shall be published in the college catalog, the
Student Handbook, and by any other means designed to notify and inform affected persons.
4. Students shall have the right to form an organization around any particular interest; this right will include the
freedom to organize and to join student organizations subject to published campus and district regulations.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 41
5. Students shall have the right to be informed on all campus matters that can be shown to be directly relevant to
them by having a voice in decision making that affects their academic future with the exception of staff
appointment, termination and tenure. In case of conflict in determining what campus matters are relevant to
students, the determination will be made by a campus-designated student, faculty, and administrative
committee. In addition, student representatives shall be members of all faculty and administrative committees
related to student's concerns; such student representatives shall vote as committee members.
a. The nursing faculty holds meetings at regularly scheduled intervals. A representative from each class of
the Nursing Program is encouraged to attend scheduled nursing faculty meetings. The student
representatives act as a liaison between their respective classes and the nursing faculty.
6. A student’s records will be released only on the written consent of the student or as provided by law.
7. Students shall have the right of protection against prejudiced or capricious academic evaluation. At the same
time, however, students are responsible for maintaining standards of academic performance established in
advance for each course in which they are enrolled.
8. Students shall have the right to file a grievance, as outlined in the procedures of the District Student Grievance
Policy and Regulations, in the event of an alleged violation of their rights.
S
TUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Admission to college assumes the expectation that the student will be a responsible member of the college
community; will obey the law; comply with the published rules and regulations of the college; respect the rights,
privileges and property of the other members of the college community; and not interfere with legitimate college
affairs. Students will assume the responsibility for their conduct. In the case of student conduct which involves an
alleged or proven violation of criminal law, the disciplinary authority of the college will not be used to duplicate the
function of criminal authority. Disciplinary action may be taken if the conduct also involves a violation of district or
campus policy.
STUDENT STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
The Student Standards of Conduct contained in the District’s Administrative Regulations is a statement of the
expectations regarding student standards of conduct, both academic and non-academic, at American River
College and throughout the Los Rios Community College District. All students are expected to know about
these regulations and to obey all laws and district policies that guide them. Students shall be subject to
discipline for violation of these laws, policies, and regulations.
The California Education Code requires every community college governing board to adopt specific rules
governing student behavior along with applicable penalties for violation of such rules and regulations.
All students enrolling at American River College assume an obligation to responsibly abide by all college
regulations. Student behavior that violates the standards of good conduct provides "good cause" (reason) for
invoking the college discipline process.
Further information regarding good cause can be found in the Appendix titled "Policy & Procedure Regarding
Disruptive Behavior, Chemical, and/or Emotional Impairment."
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 42
STUDENT GRIEVANCE POLICY
It is the intent of the Los Rios Board of Trustees to provide prompt and equitable means for resolving student
grievances. A student may file a grievance or grieve an action or decision of the district or college when the
student’s status and/or rights have been adversely affected. Contact the student activities office for the
complete text of the district policy, regulation and time line on student grievances.
Grievances relating to grades are subject to Education Code 76224(a) which reads:
"When grades are given for any course of instruction taught in a community college district, the grade given to
each student shall be the grade determined by the professor of the course and the determination of the
student’s grade by the professor, in the absence of mistake, fraud, bad faith, or incompetency, shall be final.”
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
It is the desire of the Los Rios Community College District Board of Trustees to provide for all students and
employees an educational environment and work place free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment in
any situation is unacceptable, and is in violation of state and federal laws and regulations. Where evidence of
harassment is found, appropriate corrective action shall be taken.
DRUG AND ALCOHOL WORKPLACE AND COLLEGE PREMISES POLICY
The ARC Nursing Program, as part of the Los Rios Community College District, is committed to maintaining a
drug and alcohol-free workplace. This includes all college related activities. Please refer to Appendix titled
"Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace on College Premises P-2443."
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
American River College, as part of the Los Rios Community College District, supports established policies to
support learning and work environments that are free from discrimination, based upon sex, sexual orientation,
age, race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ethnic group, marital or parental status, physical or mental
disability, or any other unlawful consideration; sexual harassment; as well as providing for college premises
that are drug and alcohol free. Our policies are rooted in established state and federal laws, and support a
psychologically safe working environment for students, staff, and the community.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY AND ACADEMIC HONESTY
The college values academic integrity as an essential component of academic excellence. Students are
expected to be truthful and ethical in pursuing their learning and demonstrating their knowledge and skills.
Commitment to academic integrity is the responsibility of every student, as well as every faculty and staff
member at American River College.
The college community at ARC has the responsibility to make every effort to foster honest academic conduct
in the development of its students. Faculty are committed to clearly stating well defined standards that help
clarify academic and learning expectations, and specify behavioral manifestations of such expectations in our
classrooms, laboratories, co-curricular, and on-line settings.
Academic dishonesty defrauds all parties who depend upon the integrity of the college, its courses and its
degrees and its certificates. Academic dishonesty is an act of deception in which the student claims credit for
work or effort of another person or uses unauthorized materials or fabricated information in any academic work.
It occurs when students fraudulently attempt to show possession of a level of knowledge or skill that they do
not possess.
Academic dishonesty is a violation of the ARC "Student Standards of Conduct" and will not be tolerated. It
diminishes the quality of the scholarship at the college and hurts the majority of students who conduct
themselves earnestly and honestly.
Ignorance of these academic and behavioral standards will not absolve any student from being held responsible
for them or from any disciplinary action that may result from their actions. The two most common examples of
academic dishonesty are 1) cheating; and 2) plagiarism.
THE
N
URSING STUDENT’S
P
ROFESSIONAL
R
ESPONSIBILITIES
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 44
ATTENDANCE POLICY
The ARC Nursing faculty is committed to excellence in nursing. In this regard, we feel that both theory (seminar) and
clinical (on and off campus labs, where no patients are involved, and in hospital) experiences are equally important
in developing this excellence. Therefore, consistent attendance is a necessary component of the learning and
evaluation process.
1. Seminar: Regular attendance aids in student success, and students are reminded seminar is an integral part
of their learning. Student attendance will be monitored, and the College attendance policy for excessive
absence will be followed. Excessive absence is defined as anything over 9 hours; therefore, a Memo will
occur at anything over 4.5 hours but less than 9 hours of absence, an Educational Agreement will occur
at 9 hours of absence, and dismissal from the course will likely occur for any absence over 9 hours.
Tardiness to seminar is strongly discouraged, as this impacts not only the learning of the individual, but is also
disruptive to the class. Tardiness of 30 minutes or more will count toward seminar absence time. If a student
fails to sign in, they will be considered absent.
2. Clinical: A Memo will be given for absence of 10 hours. An Educational Agreement will be given to the student
for any absence over 10 hours. This Educational Agreement will include a clinically-related remediation
assignment, equal to the amount of time missed over 10 hours. If this assignment is not completed by the due
date, the grade for the course will be an "F." Failure from the course will likely occur for any absence over 30
hours. In the event of additional absence time that does not exceed the 30 hour parameter; an extension to
the Educational Agreement will be initiated.
a. The clinical "specialty" rotations are Peds, OB, and Mental Health. Students may not miss more
than 18 hours in any one specialty or 30 hours total per semester.
Example: Memo at 10 hours; Educational Agreement at over 10 hours with remediation; dismissal will
likely occur for over 18 hours in any one specialty or over 30 hours total per semester.
Students on an Educational Agreement for any reason forfeit their right to self-select their next semester’s
clinical rotation. These students will be placed into a clinical rotation by the next semester’s faculty team based
on needs identified by the Educational Agreement.
3. Remediation is hour for hour as assigned by the professor. Remediation does not erase the number of total
hours missed.
4. Note: Seminar taking place on what is usually a clinical day will be counted as clinical time, and absence that
day is counted as a clinical absence.
5. An inability to meet expected clinical hours, i.e. any pattern of tardiness, excessive breaks, or leaving early,
will result in disciplinary action which could lead to dismissal from the course.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 45
ABSENCE POLICY
S
TUDENT ABSENCE
When a theory absence results in the student missing a quiz or exam, it is the student's responsibility to contact
the professor as soon as possible to take the missed quiz or exam. Five percent of the total points on a given
quiz or exam will be deducted for taking it at any time other than the scheduled time. A missed quiz or exam
must be taken within one week or the score will be zero. It is the student's responsibility to obtain missed
information from seminar.
Students are required to notify their clinical professor ahead of the assigned clinical time if they will be arriving
late or will be absent from clinical. When this occurs, the student needs to follow their current clinical
professor's guidelines.
P
ROFESSOR CLINICAL ABSENCE
In the event that the clinical professor is absent and clinical is cancelled, the student is responsible for
completion of equivalent clinical time. Equivalent clinical experiences may include on-campus computer
programs, visiting Web sites, assigned videos, individual psychomotor skills, or other specific assignments
from clinical professor. An explanation of student responsibilities in the event of professor absence, including
clinical prep, is in each course’s materials.
I
NJURY – ILLNESS
Students with casts, splints, or a condition that inhibits movement and interferes with patient or student safety
will not be allowed in the clinical area. Students will be required to take a program leave of absence until their
condition allows full movement and any items inhibiting movement are no longer needed. A physician’s
clearance will be required upon return to the Nursing Program.
In order to protect patients, peers, and others, students must not report to clinical if any sign of illness is present.
A student who is absent from clinical due to illness may be permitted to attend class that day if it has been
cleared with the professor. In addition, if the student receives an injury, or develops an illness or
condition that may endanger the student, the staff, or patients, it will be necessary for the student to
obtain a clearance from a private physician before they will be allowed in class and/or clinical.
Individual clinical facility policies and protocols will also be followed.
A
CCIDENTS
If a student becomes injured in any way while in attendance on campus or in a clinical setting, the professor
must be notified immediately. Protocol will be followed.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 46
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS REQUIRED OF NURSING STUDENTS IN CLINICAL
Students are providing direct patient care during clinical. As such, they must be physically and emotionally capable
to provide care in the Registered Nurse Role. Essential functions of that role include:
1. MOTOR CAPABILITY
a. Move from room to room without assistive equipment.
b. Transfer patients who may require physical assistance.
c. Guard and assist patients with ambulation.
d. Perform exercise techniques, including applying resistance during exercise (e.g. ROM)
e. Squat, crawl, bend/stoop, reach above shoulder level, kneel, use standing balance and climb
stairs.
f. Have manual dexterity; use hands repetitively.
g. Adjust, apply, and clean therapeutic equipment.
h. Travel to and from academic and clinical sites.
i. Sit 1-2 hours, stand 6-7 hours, travel 1-3 hours.
2. SENSORY CAPABILITY
a. Respond to call lights, alarms, or cries for help.
b. Auditory and visual abilities sufficient to assess patient status from a distance up to 10 feet
away. (e.g. color or sound changes; respiratory status).
c. Tactile, auditory, and visual abilities sufficient to perform patient care and required semester specific
skills.
3. COMMUNICATION ABILITY
a. Communicate effectively in English with patients, families, professors and other health care
providers, both verbally and written (e.g. follow verbal and written instructions, explain treatments,
teach patients and families, accurately document in medical record).
b. Effectively adapt communication for intended audience.
c. Interact and establish good rapport with individuals, families and groups from a variety of socio-
economic, cultural and intellectual backgrounds.
d. Assume the role of a health care team member while following policies, procedures and protocols
required by clinical and academic settings.
e. Function effectively while being observed.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 47
4. PROBLEM SOLVING ABILITY
a. Organize and prioritize tasks, reporting problems to the appropriate person within an appropriate
timeframe.
b. Function effectively under stress.
c. Respond appropriately to emergencies, including ability to perform CPR.
d. Demonstrate problem-solving skills in relationship to patient care (i.e., measure, calculate, reason,
prioritize, and synthesize data).
e. Use sound judgment and safety precautions, including infection control procedures.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Public Law 101-336, the American River College
Nursing Program makes every effort to make reasonable accommodations to any qualified individual with a disability.
The Nursing Program will not discriminate against any individual because of age, gender, ethnic background, sexual
orientation, political affiliation, mental illness, or disability. If an accommodation is warranted, the student must
contact the Nursing Program Director within 10 days after receiving their acceptance letter.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 48
GUIDELINES FOR PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT IN CLINICAL
Entering the nursing profession intensifies the standards of appearance and behavior. Students are expected to
adhere to the following:
PERSONAL APPEARANCE
Asepsis and comfort are integral parts of patient care. Student interference with these aspects of patient care
due to uniform, hair, rings, nails, jewelry, or any other contributing factors must be corrected as determined by
the professor and clinical site standards. Gum chewing is not allowed in clinical. Students not meeting appearance
standards may be dismissed from the clinical setting to correct deficiencies. Professional attire must be
appropriate to the situation.
UNIFORM DRESS CODE
1. Hair must be of a natural color, clean, off the collar, and secured out of the eyes so that it will not fall forward
when bent over, and conservatively styled. Any hair bands or clips must be embellishment free (black or
white). A headband or surgical cap may be worn in the designated school color, all white or all black. If an all
white or all black headband or surgical cap is worn, it should match the plain, all white or all black, short or
long-sleeved t-shirt or turtle neck worn under the scrub top.
2. Nursing Program name badges must be worn whenever in any clinical setting.
3. Jewelry must be kept at a minimum. Wedding band and watch with second hand are acceptable. If student
has piercings, small post studs are acceptable. Bracelets are not allowed for infection control reasons. For
safety reasons, necklaces are not allowed. Individual variations on jewelry will be dealt with as situations
arise based on facility and clinical safety requirements.
4. "Well-groomed" means:
a. Absence of odors of tobacco, perspiration, perfume, etc.
b. Polished white or black impermeable shoes with closed toes and clean laces. Heel may be open if
heel strap is part of the shoe. Solid color white, black, or flesh colored hose or solid color white or
black socks that must extend to above the ankle.
c. Scrub top and pants in the designated school color and style with ARC Nursing patch firmly attached
to the right sleeve. Scrub top must be embroidered with American River College Nursing. A similarly
embroidered scrub warm-up jacket in the designated school color and style is allowed. The scrub
jacket must also be embroidered with American River College Nursing and have the ARC Nursing
patch firmly attached to the right sleeve. No other sweaters or jackets are to be worn over the uniform
while on duty. A plain, all white or all black, short or long-sleeved t-shirt or turtle neck may be worn
under the scrub top. Uniform must be clean and unwrinkled.
d. Lanyards around the neck are not acceptable for safety reasons unless they have break-away straps.
e. Clean nails, no longer than fingertip length. No nail polish is permitted. No artificial nails are
permitted.
f. Minimum amount of make-up.
g. No visible tattoos. A long sleeve undershirt can be worn under the scrub.
5. For medical-surgical patient preparation: Clarify with your individual clinical professor for the appropriate type
of attire to be worn.
6. For mental health rotation, or field trips:
a. Students must be professionally dressed, not "casually" dressed (For example: NO denim jeans,
stirrup or stretch pants, shorts, Capri pants, cutoffs, sweats, sleeveless or strapless tops, short crop
tops, see-through or otherwise revealing tops, short skirts, skirts with high slits, high heeled shoes,
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 49
bare feet, sandals, clog type shoes, etc.) Suggestive or provocative clothing of any kind is
inappropriate in clinical settings. Stockings or visible socks must be worn. Hair may hang free but
must be neatly combed.
REQUIRED CLINICAL SUPPLIES
Students must have the following in the clinical:
bandage scissors
watch with second hand
hemostat
resource information
black pen and red pen
assignment/worksheet
stethoscope
notepaper
pocket penlight
GENERAL STANDARD OF CONDUCT
Because patients in clinical settings are dependent upon their care givers, the conduct expected of all students in the
Nursing Program exceeds that of the general college student. Failure to demonstrate behavior that conforms to these
expectations will be cause for dismissal from any of the courses or the Nursing Program.
Components of these standards include, but are not limited to, those listed below:
PROFESSIONAL ATTITUDE
• Maturity
• Compassion and caring
• Integrity and truthfulness
• Sound judgment and priority setting
PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE (See the Personal Appearance section.)
• Cleanliness
• Neatness
• Inspires patient confidence
PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR
• Safe clinical performance
• Punctuality
• Conscientiousness in carrying out duties
• Maintenance of confidentiality
Unacceptable behaviors include but are not limited to: Use of loud talking or profanity; inappropriate relationships with
patients, staff, physicians, faculty, or fellow students; use of substances that impair clinical performance; or dishonesty.
Students must remember they are guests in the clinical facilities. Clinical facilities have the right to suspend any
student from participating in clinical experiences. Students may be denied access by the clinical facility for a variety
of reasons including, but not limited to: Conduct or attitude that threatens the health, safety, or welfare of any patient;
a breach of the confidentiality of any patient information; lack of satisfactory performance; or failure to follow agency
policies or procedures. Any such removal will be on a temporary basis until a full investigation of the situation is
completed in consultation with the ARC Nursing Program. Such suspensions, whether temporary or permanent, are
separate from any ARC College or Nursing Program policies and procedures.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 50
STANDARDS OF COMPETENT PERFORMANCE
Students must be cognizant of the standards set forth by the Board of Registered Nursing that describe competent
performance. These standards apply to all nursing students and are modified to the level of academic preparation.
(See Appendix titled "Standards of Competent Performance.") Students are expected to meet these standards
upon graduation, and they are incorporated in ARC’s Nursing Program terminal objectives.
NURSING PROGRAM SPECIFIC STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
USE OF STUDENT CAR FOR SPECIAL TRANSPORTATION
Students must supply their own transportation to and from the clinical agencies and for special assignments.
Clinical assignments are based on educational criteria, not carpooling. Some facilities require personal liability
and property damage insurance verification.
PERSONAL HEALTH AND ACCIDENT INSURANCE
Students must provide their own insurance for on-campus injuries. Students will be covered in the clinical area
by Workers’ Compensation should an injury occur. Students are not covered by school insurance when in a
classroom or campus lab.
HEALTH CLEARANCE
Students must be cleared through submission of health clearance documents each semester (i.e., physical,
appropriate tests, or necessary immunizations) before they are allowed in the clinical areas.
H
EALTH REQUIREMENTS
Clinical experiences are in a variety of healthcare agencies. Each agency has its own health clearance
requirements. In an effort to facilitate students’ transition from one clinical setting to another, the Greater
Sacramento area major health systems have agreed to a set of clinical entry requirements that represent the
sum total criteria. All incoming students must complete the health clearance as directed and at their own cost.
Entry requirements are subject to change, and students will be expected to comply immediately with any new
requirement. Health information is entered into a computer database. The system provides students access to
their health information documents throughout their program duration. Health information is accessible only to
the Nursing Director and designee.
MALPRACTICE INSURANCE
Malpractice insurance has been mandated by the clinical facilities for students in nursing and related health
fields. This insurance must be purchased at the beginning of the first and third semesters.
CURRENT ADDRESS/EMAIL
Each student is to keep their current address, telephone number, email address, and emergency contact on
file with the Nursing Department and with their clinical professor. This information is kept confidential.
Correspondence to students will be via the Los Rios Gmail system.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
All prerequisite and co-requisite courses must be completed at the designated time. These courses must be
completed prior to advancing to the next semester. Please refer to ARC catalog and course syllabus for the
most recent information. Proof of prerequisite or co-requisite completion or current enrollment must be
presented to the Nursing Department Office as directed.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 51
C
OPIES OF CLINICAL EVALUATIONS
Students may receive up to three clinical evaluations per semester depending on the number of rotations.
These clinical evaluations are kept in the student's file in the Nursing Department when completed. Students
may find copies of clinical evaluations useful when applying for nursing positions and/or preparing for
interviews. It is the student's responsibility to request a copy of the evaluation from the professor at the time it
is completed. The Nursing Office will not make copies for students during or after program participation. See
the respective clinical professor for details on obtaining a copy of the current clinical evaluation.
STUDENT REQUEST FOR LETTER AND/OR COMPLETION OF FORM FROM FACULTY AND/OR DIRECTOR
It is not unusual for students to request letters, completion of forms and/or signatures from faculty or the Nursing
Director. Such documents can include: Reference letters, letters for the BRN application, letters for financial
aid, unemployment forms, etc. Students must provide ample time for documents to be completed. It is critical
students choose the appropriate staff to write letters. For example, students wanting a letter of recommendation
for a job or higher level of education program will need to ask faculty. The Nursing Director does not have specific
knowledge of course work and is not able to provide the level of detail that would comprise a reasonable
reference letter.
The Nursing Director and faculty require seven business days advance notice to produce the required
letter/document/signature. Time may need to be extended depending on workload, vacation schedule, etc.
Students must remember faculty generally are not available during the summer, winter recess, semester break
(January), and spring break to provide letters. If the letter is a recommendation for clinical/class performance (i.e.,
for a work application), the student will need to wait until faculty return.
BACKGROUND VERIFICATION
Students accepted to the Nursing Program and students re-entering the Nursing Program must pay for and
complete a criminal background check as they must meet all applicable hospital security standards for
placement in mandatory clinical rotations at selected clinical sites. Students who withdraw from the Nursing
Program or who do not progress in a continuous sequence (e.g. theory failure at final grade) must redo their
background check upon readmission.
If a student is found to be ineligible for clinical placement by a particular clinical agency due to something in
their background check, the Nursing Program will explore an alternative clinical site for the student to complete
the objectives of the course. If an alternative site to place the student is not possible, because clinical is a
required component of the Nursing Program, the student will be subject to dismissal as they will be unable to
complete mandatory clinical rotations. See Appendix titled "Background Check for Student Clinical
Placement."
DRUG SCREENING
In an effort to assure patient safety, our partner agencies require that all students having clinical experiences
in their facilities clear a drug screen test. This test must be conducted by a lab approved by the Joint
Commission of Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) or College of American pathologists (CAP).
Additionally, all drug testing must ensure chain of custody and have Medical Review Officer (MRO) oversight.
This necessitates the use of a singular drug testing company to ensure standardization of testing procedures
and compliance with our partners’ requirements.
Students accepted into the Nursing Program must complete a drug screen test prior to beginning the Nursing
Program. This test will include screening for amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines,
cocaine, marijuana, opiates, methaqualone, methadone, propoxyphene, and phencyclidine. Refusing to test,
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 52
a positive test, or dilute negative tests, are considered positive results and will lead to dismissal from the
program. Students have until one week before the start of the first semester to demonstrate negative drug
screen results. If a student disagrees with the results, the student must contact the drug-testing lab to inquire
about the results or obtain a new test. Prior to beginning the 1st semester of the Nursing Program, students
may have a second attempt before the start of classes, which must be a negative result. If a student refuses
to test, has a positive result, or dilute negative, the student will be considered out of compliance
and dismissed from the Nursing Program. Dismissed students may reapply for the Nursing Program in
accordance with reentry requirements.
Students are responsible for the costs of drug screening. Students who need to retest to clear positive
results or due to a dilute specimen will be responsible for the additional testing cost. Students who exit the
program and subsequently re-enter will need to repeat the drug screen at the student’s cost no matter
the length or reason of exit.
As with all student health information, results of the drug screen test will be kept confidential to the
extent permitted by law. Drug screening records are kept in a secured location, accessible only to the Nursing
Director.
ACCESS TO ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORDS-PROVISION OF STUDENT IDENTIFIERS
Partner agencies may require student identifiers for access to electronic medical records. Clinical faculty is
responsible for obtaining the required agency forms, supervising student completion of the forms, and providing
the completed forms to the agency in a timely manner. (Note: The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
[FERPA] prohibit schools from disclosing SSN or other non-directory identification information. Therefore,
students must complete agency forms requiring such information and provide it directly to the requiring agency.)
NURSING PROGRAM
P
OLICIES,
P
ROCEDURES, &
G
UIDELINES
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 54
REASONS FOR DISMISSAL
EXCESSIVE ABSENCES
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Behavioral objectives will include those relating to professional attitudes and conduct. Failure to meet these
objectives, after counseling by faculty, may result in dismissal from the Nursing Program. Decision for dismissal
will be made by the nursing faculty. (See "General Standards of Conduct" In Appendix.)
UNDERACHIEVEMENT
Failure to achieve Core Competencies at a "satisfactory" level will result in the student's dismissal from the
individual course and/or the Nursing Program.
D
ISHONEST OR UNETHICAL CONDUCT
Consistent with the Los Rios Community College Board of Trustees policy as stated on the American River
College website "Student Rights & Responsibilities," a student is subject to disciplinary action and may be
suspended or expelled for good cause. Good cause includes, but is not limited to the following offenses:
1. Dishonesty, such as cheating, plagiarism, knowingly furnishing false information to the College or clinical
facility.
2. Forgery, alteration or misuse of College and clinical facility documents, records, or identification.
3. Obstruction or disruption of instruction, the administrative process, college activities, community
services, or other authorized college activities including clinical experience.
4. Assault or battery or willful misconduct which results in injury or death of any person, or conduct which
threatens or endangers the health or safety of such persons as students, college personnel, clinical
personnel, and/or patients or their family or visitors.
5. Theft of, or non-accidental damage to, college or clinical facility property, or property of any members of
the college or clinical facility community, or guest of the college or clinical facility.
6. Unauthorized entry to and use of college or clinical facilities.
7. Use, possession, distribution, sale, or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages, narcotics or
dangerous drugs on college property, in the clinical facility, or at college-sponsored events.
8. Failure to comply with directions of college officials acting in performance of their duties.
9. Soliciting or assisting another to do any act which would subject a student to expulsion, suspension,
probation, or other discipline pursuant to this policy.
10. Knowing possession or use of explosives, dangerous chemicals or deadly weapons on college or a
clinical facility's property or at a college function without prior authorization of the College President or
designated representative.
11. Refusal to comply with a clinical agency requirements or the clinical agency refusing use of their
environment for educational purposes may result in dismissal from the program.
.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 55
IMPAIRED STUDENT POLICY
No student who is impaired as the result of drugs, alcohol, or mental disturbance will be allowed presence or practice
in any setting of the Nursing Program. Any students, who, in the opinion of faculty is judged unsafe according to the
above regulation will be excluded from the setting.
(See the "Policy and Procedure Regarding the Student with Disruptive Behavior, Chemical, and/or Emotional
Impairment," in the Appendix for complete information.)
CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM POLICY
Nurses must hold themselves to the highest levels of integrity, ethical behavior, and accountability. Cheating on
exams and plagiarism in course assignments does not reflect these ideals. Therefore, the faculty has instituted the
following program policy related to students found cheating on exams or plagiarizing assignments.
Students found cheating on their exams or plagiarizing in course assignments will:
• Relinquish all documents in their immediate possession. (Refusal to relinquish documents will be
considered the same as cheating, resulting in the same consequences.)
• Receive disciplinary action and a zero for a scored assignment or exam in question. This may result in
the student failing the course
• Will likely be reported to the campus Disciplinary Officer.
The disciplinary action and the zero received on a scored assignment or exam may result in the student’s inability to
pass the course. Any further evidence of cheating will result in dismissal from the course and/or Nursing Program.
Students have the right to due process. The procedure to follow is found in the ARC Guide to Student Rights and
Responsibilities handbook. It is the student’s responsibility to pursue this option, if they so choose.
E
XAMINATION PROCEDURES
The following standards will be enforced during the giving and taking of examinations:
1. All examinations will have a professor present at all times.
2. There will be absolutely no student to student talking during an exam.
3. If a student has a question about the exam, the professor will answer only non-substantive questions. The
information given to the individual student will then be made available to the entire class if it is deemed relevant
by the professor.
4. Books, papers, coats, and other personal articles are to be placed away from the working space during an
examination, and cell phones are to be turned off or on silent mode.
5. Only simple calculators may be used during exams. No hand held computer devices are permissible. Students
may ask for definition/clarification of non-medical terminology. The professor will determine whether a word
may be looked up and provide a dictionary for student use.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 56
6. It is the responsibility of each student to monitor their own behavior to minimize the possibility of personal
suspicion.
7. Each student taking an examination is to position themselves so the examinations of other students are not
visible.
8. If a student's behavior during an exam is deemed suspicious, the professor will immediately stop the student's
examination and investigate.
9. After the student has completed any examination, they are to immediately and silently leave the room.
10. Students with disabilities that are documented by ARC Disabled Student Services and Programs or Learning
Disabilities Department may have special testing arrangements. It is the student's responsibility to arrange for
special testing with their professors as early as possible prior to the day of testing. (See Appendix titled
"Accommodations Checklist" for additional details.)
11. If a student needs to take an exam at any time other than the scheduled time, the student must arrange for this
with their professor. Five percent of the total points possible will be deducted from the student’s exam score.
Missed exams must be taken within one week or the score will be zero.
12. Each course will address exam procedure and exam review.
COMPUTERIZED TESTING POLICY
Computerized testing takes place via the current College learning website. Access to the site for testing purposes
is only allowed during designated testing times and while on campus in a proctored testing situation. Any violation
(i.e., access from home or outside of the proctored situation) will result in receiving a zero (0) grade for the exam
and may result in further disciplinary action.
During the testing situation, students are not allowed access to personal electronic equipment, phones, books,
purses, briefcases, or backpacks. Students are allowed calipers, non-scientific calculators, non-mechanical pencils,
erasers, and faculty provided scratch paper. During the testing situation, no hats with rims (i.e., baseball cap) are
allowed. Any items brought into the test site are subject to inspection prior to entrance and at any time during the
examination.
Once the exam is completed, the student may have access to exam review for a limited period of time. No notes
may be made during the exam review. Students are not to discuss any part of the exam, including question type,
content, or answers with other students until all students have completed the exam. Failure to comply will be
considered cheating and will result in disciplinary action.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 57
HIPAA COMPLIANCE POLICY
(H
EALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY & ACCOUNTABILITY ACT)
Hospital partners are emphasizing strict adherence to HIPAA guidelines. A HIPAA breach is any unauthorized
(inappropriate) access, use, or disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI). Examples include, but are not limited
to:
Discussing patient information in a public place, such as an elevator or the cafeteria;
Any student paperwork that leaves the hospital containing any PHI as defined by HIPAA;
Computer screens left open and unattended in a public area (e.g. the hallway) with PHI visible.
Any information is considered Protected Health Information (PHI) if the following apply:
It is used to identify an individual;
The covered entity has reasonable basis to believe that the information can be used to identify the
individual;
If the HIPAA-defined 18 standard identifiers are not removed from the health information, and the
remaining health information could not be used alone or in combination to identify a subject.
Specific examples of PHI include the following:
1. Names
2. Geographic subdivisions smaller than a state
3. Dates including birth date, admission date, discharge date, date of death, and all ages over 89
4. Telephone numbers
5. Fax numbers
6. Electronic mail addresses
7. Social Security numbers
8. Medical record numbers
9. Health plan beneficiary numbers
10. Account numbers
11. Certificate/license numbers
12. Vehicle identifiers and serial numbers, including license plate numbers
13. Device identifiers and serial numbers
14. Web Universal Resource Locators (URLs)
15. Biometric identifiers, including finger or voice prints
16. Full face photographic images and any comparable images
17. Internet Protocol address numbers
18. Any other unique identifying number, characteristic, or code
Any HIPAA breach can result in personal and agency fines. Therefore, faculty recognizes a HIPAA violation as a
serious breach and students will be placed on a Memo or Educational Agreement upon discovery of the first HIPAA
violation. Any second violation will result in an Educational Agreement or dismissal from the course or Nursing
Program.
Given the gravity of a HIPAA violation, the student will remain on Memo or Educational Agreement for the duration of
their nursing education.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 58
SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
The ARC Nursing faculty know that the Internet and social media, when used wisely, provide many safe and positive
ways to stay in touch with people. With the growing popularity of online social media has come a host of lesser known
ways that healthcare providers may inadvertently disclose Private Healthcare Information (PHI). The faculty view
Internet venues as a student’s right to self-expression. What students do privately, on their own time, is their business.
However, once a student identifies himself as an American River College (ARC) nursing student in a social networking
profile website, group page, or weblog or use the ARC name, logo, or ARC photograph or text, everything and
anything that students post or say in that medium can then be seen as a reflection of the ARC Nursing Program. The
faculty require students to observe specific guidelines related to social media.
1. As an ARC nursing student, I agree to be respectful of the Nursing Program, the students, and the faculty
in all communications in my e-mails, instant messages (IMs), profile, blog, or other Internet sites. I agree
to NOT:
a. use obscenities, profanity, or vulgar language.
b. engage in harassment or intimidation.
c. post comments that are derogatory with regard to any individual’s race, gender, religion, sexual
orientation, or disability.
d. use sexually explicit, suggestive, humiliating, or demeaning comments.
e. post photographs that compromise anyone’s privacy or that are used to demean, humiliate, or
otherwise embarrass anyone.
2. I agree not to use a social networking profile, group page, weblog, or other Internet medium to discuss
information that is considered Private Healthcare Information (PHI) as defined by the ARC HIPAA Policy
and agree not to present or display any behavior that is prohibited by the ARC Student Handbook and/or
the ARC Nursing Student Handbook. I agree to comply with all local, state, and federal requirements
governing the privacy of medical information.
3. I recognize and accept the ARC nursing policy regarding personal contact with patients; which is that the
school discourages such activity. Furthermore, I will not share with a patient or their family members or
significant others any phone number, e-mail, or physical address, chat room site, Weblog address, or
social networking site.
4. Once I identify myself as an ARC nursing student, the general public may see me as an ambassador or
spokesperson of ARC. Therefore, I understand that as a condition of my enrollment, I will adhere to the
guidelines outlined above. I understand that any violation of the guidelines outlined in this policy will
result in disciplinary and/or legal action.
5. I recognize that administration periodically searches the Internet for breaches in its privacy policies.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 59
G
UIDELINES FOR STUDENT: PROBLEM RESOLUTION
It is the intent of the Los Rios Community College District that all colleges provide prompt and equitable means for
resolving student grievances. A grievable matter is any alleged action or decision of the Los Rios District or one of its
colleges that adversely affects the status of a student or violates the rights of a student in the event of an alleged
violation of their rights. The faculty in the ARC Nursing Program want students to feel they have a positive learning
environment while pursuing a nursing degree. Students who believe they are have a problem regarding fair or
equitable treatment as it relates to course instruction or Nursing Program policies, are encouraged to use the following
sequence to resolve the issues.
1. Professor involved in the concern;
2. Teaching team;
3. Nursing Director and/or Division Dean;
4. Grievance process.
Any student shall have the right to file a grievance, as outlined in the procedures of the District Student Grievance
Policy and Regulations (P-2412, R-2412).
Note: Grievances related to grades are subject to the Education code which reads:
“When grades are given for any course of instruction taught in a community college district,
the grade given to each student shall be the grade determined by the instructor of the course
and the determination of the student’s grade by the instructor, in the absence of mistake,
fraud, bad faith, or incompetency, shall be final.”
GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT: DISCRIMINATION AND/OR SEXUAL HARASSMENT
American River College strives to provide equitable opportunity for all students and employees in an educational
environment and work place that is free from unlawful discrimination and sexual harassment. Alleged discriminatory
actions on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, or disability are not grievable and are
subject to administrative regulations enacted by the State Community College Board of Governors (Title 5, §§ 59300-
59360) and Los Rios Policies and Regulations, (P-2423); (R-2423); and (P-2424).
As soon as possible after the alleged incident, any student, or employee who learns of such an incident, shall notify
the campus Equity Officer in the Instruction Office. Raising a concern of discrimination or sexual harassment will not
affect grades, class selection or other matters pertaining to the students’ status in the program college, and/or district.
The appropriate procedure will be followed and is detailed in the Guide to Student Rights and Responsibilities
handbook.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 60
S
TUDENT RE-ENTRY INFORMATION AND PROCEDURES
Students who withdraw from the ARC Nursing Program may be eligible for re-entry.
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
1. The ARC Nursing Program is committed to regularly enrolled students who have not interrupted their nursing
major education by dropping, taking a leave of absence, or failing to achieve course objectives. Therefore, re-
entry depends largely upon space availability in the designated course.
2. The ARC Nursing Program is committed to safe, knowledgeable, and empathetic patient care. This
commitment has been determined by legal and professional nursing authorities to be a result of close clinical
supervision. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain a maximum teacher-student ratio of 1:10 in the clinical area.
3. The ARC Nursing Program is committed to the learner as a unique individual. Therefore, the student's individual
learning needs and learning styles are assessed to ensure the student's optimal preparation for success in the
Nursing Program and the practice of nursing.
4. Re-entry shall be determined by the recommendation of the Readmission Committee and space available in
the course to which the applicant is requesting re-entry.
5. Regardless of circumstances related to and date of withdrawal, the student’s current theory grade and clinical
performance evaluation will be the factors used to determine re-entry status unless otherwise determined by
the Readmission Committee.
6. Students must re-enter within one year of program exit. All students who do not re-enter within one year
regardless of semester of exit will be required to reapply as a "new applicant."
7. A student who fails or withdraws from any nursing course may re-enter ARC's Nursing Program only once. The
courses in the Nursing Program where this criterion applies are Nurse 305, Nurse 400, Nurse 410, Nurse 420,
and Nurse 430.
8. If a student is a permanent exit from any Los Rios Community College Nursing Program, they are not eligible
for entry at American River College Nursing Program through the application process.
9. Students who leave the Nursing Program will be categorized as leaving in "good standing" or leaving "not in
good standing." Students would be categorized as "not in good standing" at the time of their departure from the
Nursing Program if they are:
a. receiving a failing grade;
b. on Memo or Educational Agreement for unsatisfactory clinical performance;
c. deemed unsafe;
d. deemed grossly negligent (students with the status of gross negligence will NOT be considered
for re-entry to the ARC Nursing Program.)
The definition for unsatisfactory, unsafe, or grossly negligent clinical performance is as follows (adapted from
Definitions in the BRN Rules/Regulations):
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 61
Unsatisfactory: Performance is considered unsatisfactory when a student does not possess and exercise that
degree of learning, skill, care, and experience ordinarily possessed and exercised by students at the same
level in the program and/or failure to achieve any Core Competency at a "satisfactory" level.
Unsafe practice: Performance is considered unsafe when a student's action(s) reflect a substantial departure
from that of other students at the same level under similar circumstances and when the student's actions have
or could have resulted in harm to the patient.
Grossly negligent: Performance is considered grossly negligent when a student's behavior justifies the belief
that there has been a conscious disregard or indifference for the health, safety, or welfare of the patient.
10. Regardless of length or reason for exit, all re-entry students must complete certain program and semester
requirements. These requirements will be detailed in the letter of re-entry sent by the Nursing Department.
Examples of requirements that will need to be repeated or updated include, but are not limited to: Background
verification, drug testing, health clearance, malpractice payments, and attendance at mandatory agency
orientations. Students are responsible for all costs associated with these requirements.
PRIORITIES FOR PROGRAM ADMISSION
There is significant demand for admission to the Nursing Program. Attendance at the Nursing Program Nurse
Intensive is mandatory. The Pre-program requirements are due the first day of class. Students accepted to the
Nursing Program who, for whatever reason, cannot enter at the time they are offered a place in Nurse 400, must re-
apply to the Program. Students must be in attendance the first day of class per college policy or they will be dropped
from the course.
PRIORITIES FOR RE-ENTRY
1. First priority will be given to students who left the ARC Nursing Program "in good standing" in both theory
and clinical performance.
2. Second priority will be given to students who left the ARC Nursing Program "not in good standing" in theory
and/or clinical performance. Students in this category will be considered on an individual basis as determined
by the Nursing Readmission Committee and faculty of the semester to which students are seeking re-entry.
3. Third priority will be given to:
a. LVN to RN Transition to Nursing Bridge students who have met all pre-enrollment nursing requirements
followed by transfer students "in good standing" who have met all pre-enrollment requirements.
b. Transfer students outside the LRCCD "in good standing" who have met all pre-enrollment
requirements.
4. Fourth priority will be given to LVN 30-unit option students.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 62
GRADUATION: INFORMATION AND REQUIREMENTS
Starting nursing school is an exciting event, but this excitement does not compare to that of the ultimate goal,
GRADUATION! Although it seems far off, decisions must be made and planning must begin during the first semester
of the Nursing Program.
1. Academic Checklist: Students should use this checklist as a guide to ensure that once the end of the program
is reached all academic pieces are in place. Too often, a nursing student gets caught at the end of the Nursing
Program missing graduation requirements. Is this a bad thing to happen? The major ramification of a delayed
graduation date is the inability to obtain an interim permit to work as a nurse while waiting to take the NCLEX-
RN. This delay in graduation may result in a substantial reduction of earning power. Remember, it is the
student’s responsibility to ensure all graduation requirements are met. Neither counseling, nor the Nursing
Director has the ability to seek out each and every student to ensure graduation requirements are met. This
detailed document can be found in the Appendix titled "Academic Checklist."
2. Prior Felony and/or Misdemeanors or Arrests or Convictions (even if expunged or diverted) must be
reported to the BRN at the time of license application in order to take the necessary steps required by the BRN
so a student can sit for the NCLEX-RN. See Appendices titled "Reporting Prior Convictions or Discipline
Against Licenses" and "Documents for Applicants with Convictions (Board of Registered Nursing
Enforcement Division)." Faculty are available to help with this, as needed.
3. Commencement Ceremony: Students are reminded that there is a campus commencement ceremony where
the earned associate degree is conferred. All nursing students are invited and urged to participate in the college
commencement.
4. Pinning Ceremony: To commemorate completion of the Nursing Program, the faculty will arrange for a
Pinning Ceremony during final exam week. Student guidelines for the end of program Pinning Ceremony are
found on the NURSE 430 website.
APPENDICES
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 64
APPENDIX A
IMPLEMENTATION OF STUDENT COUNSELING, ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS,
M
EMO, AND EDUCATIONAL AGREEMENT
Implementation of counseling means students are given a notice of a need to change their behavior(s) and/or
performance.
QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
A. Policy
Core Competencies are standards of practice and include those behaviors that are so important to nursing care
and patient safety that failure to perform them correctly is considered unsafe nursing care.
All Core Competencies will be considered in the ongoing evaluation of the student's clinical performance and
are areas in which satisfactory performance must be achieved and maintained at all times. The student
is expected to comply with the Core Competencies 100% of the time. Failure to comply with any one of the Core
Competencies by the end of any nursing course will result in the student receiving an "F" in the course.
B. Procedure
ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS REPORT
Practice not meeting any of the Core Competencies will result in the student completing a Root Cause Analysis
Report which will be submitted to faculty. A Root Cause Analysis Report is a powerful tool used to identify
causal factors, improve performance, and prevent recurrence of errors.
1. When practice does not meet one or more Core Competency, faculty will discuss the situation and
strategies for improvement and require the student to complete ALL components of Sections I and II of
the Root Cause Analysis Report and sign the back of the form.
2. Once the student has completed Sections I and II of the Root Cause Analysis Report and signs the form,
the student submits the report to their professor for review of these sections and completion of Section III.
3. After the professor has reviewed Sections I and II of the Root Cause Analysis Report and completed
Section III, the professor signs the report and forwards it to the Assistant Nursing Director for review and
signature.
4. Once the Assistant Nursing Director has reviewed and signed the Root Cause Analysis Report, the report
will be given back to the professor. The professor will then make and distribute a copy of the report to
the student and the professor. The professor will place the original Root Cause Analysis Report in the
student's permanent file.
5. An established trend will result in a Memo and, if need be, an Educational Agreement. However, there
may be times when a student is placed directly on Memo or Educational Agreement.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 65
MEMO
Students in the ARC Nursing Program are adult learners. As adult learners they are responsible for their own
learning. It is the student's responsibility to be aware of standards regarding grading, testing, absenteeism, and
tardiness as stated in this Student Handbook and individual course materials. It is expected that adult learners
be aware of their standing in class and clinical areas via test results, graded papers, and performance
evaluations. To support success, a written Memo may be issued to reinforce this knowledge.
For example, all students are expected to:
1. maintain a grade of 78% in written theory;
2. achieve all the Core Competencies for a course;
3. maintain good attendance and promptness; and,
4. submit required written work on time.
If serious problems continue, the student will progress to an Educational Agreement.
EDUCATIONAL AGREEMENT
An individualized Educational Agreement identifies the course objectives which have not been met with a
description of the student's performance, what the student must do to achieve the unmet Core Competencies
within a stated time frame, and what the professor will provide to assist the student to meet these Core
Competencies. If the student does not follow the success plan and/or is not able to meet the specified Core
Competencies, the student will not pass the course.
Students on an Educational Agreement for any reason forfeit their right to self-select their next semester’s
clinical rotation. These students will be placed in a clinical rotation by the next semester’s faculty team based
on needs identified in the Educational Agreement.
Copies of Memos and/or Educational Agreements will be given to the:
1. Student
2. Clinical Professor
The originals of all Memos and Educational Agreements will be placed in the student's permanent file.
NOTE: All student files are available to faculty for review as indicated by current student performance.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 66
ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS (RCA) REPORT
Student completes Sections I and II and signs the back of the RCA. Clinical professor completes Section III and signs the RCA.
Assistant Director reviews and signs the RCA. The RCA is placed in the student’s file, and the student receives a copy.
Student:________________Course:______Professor:_______________Date:_________Clinical Facility:______________
SECTION I: STUDENT’S DESCRIPTION OF THE OCCURRENCE AND CORRECTIVE ACTION:
Occurrence description:
Occurrence cause:
How could it have been avoided?
REAL effects on the patient:
Potential effects on the patient:
Corrective action taken by the student:
Student’s plan to prevent this from happening again:
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 67
SECTION II: CORE COMPETENCIES: CIRCLE THE UNMET CORE COMPETENC(Y/IES) FROM THE LIST BELOW.
Core Competencies include those behaviors so important to nursing care and patient safety that failure to perform them
correctly is considered unsafe nursing practice. All Core Competencies are considered in the ongoing evaluation of the
student's clinical performance. The student is expected to satisfactorily perform the following Core Competencies at all times:
1. Patient Centered Care: Recognizes the patient or designee as the source of control and full partner in providing
compassionate and coordinated care based on respect for the patient’s preferences, values, and needs.
2. Evidence Based Practice: Integrates best current evidence with clinical expertise and patient/family preferences and
values for delivery of optimal heath care.
3. Safety: Minimizes harm to patients and providers through both system effectiveness and individual performance.
4. Informatics and Technology: Uses information and technology to communicate, manage knowledge, mitigate error,
and support decision making.
5. Quality Improvement: Participates in the systematic process that healthcare organizations and professionals use to
continuously improve the quality and safety of healthcare systems.
6. Communication: Interacts effectively with patients, families, and colleagues, fostering mutual respect and shared
decision making, to enhance patient satisfaction and health outcomes.
7. Teamwork and Collaboration: Functions effectively within nursing and interdisciplinary teams, fostering open
communication, mutual respect, shared decision-making, team learning, and development.
8. Leadership: Influences the behavior of others in a way that will facilitate the establishment and
acquisition/achievement of shared goals.
9. Professionalism: Demonstrates accountability for the delivery of standard based nursing care that is consistent with
moral, altruistic, legal, ethical, regulatory, and humanistic principles.
Please refer to the “Educational Student Learning Outcomes and Core Competencies” table in the Nursing Student
Handbook for the individual knowledge, attitudes, and skills (KAS) needed to successfully achieve each core competency.
Satisfactory performance must be achieved in all Core Competencies by the end of the current semester in order to progress
to the next semester.
SECTION III: CLINICAL PROFESSOR’S DESCRIPTION OF THE OCCURRENCE AND RECOMMENDATION(S):
Unsafe Behavior______ Gross Negligence ______ Facility Incident Report Completed: Yes _____ No _____
Description:
Recommendation(s):
STUDENT SIGNATURE: DATE:
PROFESSOR SIGNATURE: DATE:
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR SIGNATURE: DATE:
cc: Student, Professor
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 68
APPENDIX B
ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES
Student representation at Curriculum, Policy, and Faculty meetings is highly encouraged. Student opinion is an
essential component to the continuing improvement of the Nursing Program policies, procedures, and curriculum.
The strongest nursing programs are those that have solid student involvement.
Meetings occur approximately twice a month on Monday afternoons. The exact meeting schedule may be obtained
from the Nursing Department Chair.
Each class is encouraged to elect representatives to attend Curriculum, Policy, and Faculty meetings. It is
recommended that classes select one representative for each type of meeting—Curriculum, Policy, and Faculty. In
addition, each class may choose to elect a body of officers to manage class activities.
CURRICULUM/POLICY COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVES
Responsibilities include:
• Attend Curriculum and Policy Committee Meetings
• Bring student curriculum and policy concerns to faculty
• Inform class of Curriculum and Policy Committee announcements/activities
FACULTY MEETING REPRESENTATIVE
Responsibilities include:
• Attend Faculty Meetings
• Act as liaison between faculty and students
• Bring student curriculum and policy concerns to faculty
• Inform class of Faculty Meeting content including announcements/activities
• Inform faculty regarding class activities
PINNING CEREMONY
A Pinning Ceremony for the graduating class will be arranged by the faculty with student input regarding music and
student speakers (maximum: two). The cost of the ceremony, including programs, invitations, and sound, lighting, or
janitorial services will be absorbed by the Student Nurse Association (SNA). Detailed guidelines can be found on the
N430 website and posted on the N430 bulletin board in the nursing classroom.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE STUDENT NURSE ASSOCIATION
The American River College Student Nurse Association is a chapter of the California Nursing Student’s Association.
The ARC chapter is committed to helping students achieve their professional career goals. Participation in the ARC
SNA provides the nursing student with opportunities to build relationships with other nursing students, develop
leadership skills, advocate for key issues affecting nursing students, and support community-based health promotion
activities.
The ARC faculty encourages active participation in the Student Nurse Association. Members are able to attend on-
campus meetings and take part in local community events. Additionally, opportunities exist to go to state and national
conventions. Attendance at any event that results in clinical absence must meet specific criteria, and the student
intending to participate must complete the "ARC Student Nurse Association Approval for Attendance at State and
National Conventions."
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 69
ARC STUDENT NURSE ASSOCIATION
APPROVAL FOR ATTENDANCE AT STATE AND NATIONAL CONVENTIONS
Any student may attend Student Nurse Association conventions. However, students wishing to attend conventions
that result in theory or clinical absence must have their absence approved by faculty prior to the event. If the student
is absent from theory/clinical as a result of attendance at meetings/conventions, these hours will not be counted as
absences.
CRITERIA
• Second year nursing student (third or fourth semester)
• Good standing in clinical (no Memo or Educational Agreement)
• "B" average or above in theory
• Zero to one day of clinical absence (not to exceed 8 hours)
PROCESS
At the beginning of the semester in which the convention will occur:
• Notify clinical faculty in first week of semester desire to attend convention and dates of event
• Obtain "Approval for Attendance at State and National Convention" form located in Health and Education
Office
• Provide clinical faculty with the form to be completed
• Clinical faculty will review submission and either approve or disapprove clinical absences prior to
convention date
• Submit form to Nursing Director for placement in student file
APPROVAL FOR ATTENDANCE AT STATE AND NATIONAL CONVENTIONS
Criteria
Level of Achievement
Comments
Clinical Performance
Theory Grade
Attendance – Clinical
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Student Signature/Printed Name Date
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Professor Signature/Printed Name Date
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 70
APPENDIX C
Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace and College Premises P-2443
2400 STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
2440 Standards of Conduct and Due Process
1.0 Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace and College Premises
1.1 The Los Rios Community College District is committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace in
accordance with the requirements of the U.S. Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, the California State Drug-Free Workplace
Act of 1990, and a drug and alcohol-free college environment for students and employees in accordance with the
requirements of the Drug-Free Schools and Community Act Amendment of 1989. The District certifies that it will provide
a drug and alcohol-free environment by taking the actions required by these Acts.
1.2 It is the intent of the District to make a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug and alcohol-free environment
through implementation of this policy.
2.0 Implementation
2.1 The District will notify students and employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession
or use of illicit drugs and alcohol is prohibited in the workplace and college premises. The notice will include the actions
that will be taken for violation of such prohibitions.
2.2 A drug and alcohol awareness program will be established to inform students and employees about the dangers of
drug and alcohol abuse and the District's policy of maintaining drug and alcohol-free workplace and college premises.
Information will be provided regarding drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation programs and the penalties that may
be imposed upon students and employees for violations occurring in the workplace and colleges.
2.3 Each employee will be given a copy of the policy statement annually regarding the drug and alcohol-free workplace
and college premises.
2.3.1 Employees will be notified that, as a condition of employment under any federal or state contract/grant to the
District, the employee will abide by the terms of the policy. The employee shall notify the District of any criminal drug
statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than five days after such conviction.
2.3.2 Within ten (10) days after receiving notice from an employee or otherwise receiving actual notice of conviction,
the District will notify the contracting agency in accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act.
2.3.3 Within thirty (30) days of receiving notice with respect to any employee who is convicted, the District will take
appropriate personnel action against such employee, which may include termination; or require such employee to
participate satisfactorily in a drug or alcohol abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purposes
by a Federal, State, or local health, law enforcement, or other appropriate agency.
2.4 Each student will be given a copy of the policy statement annually regarding the drug and alcohol-free workplace
and college premises. Violation of this policy by students shall result in disciplinary sanctions up to and including expulsion,
and may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program.
2.5 In addition to disciplinary sanctions, violators may be prosecuted under applicable law.
2.6 Students and employees will be informed of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of
alcohol, and will be advised of the availability of drug or alcohol counseling, treatment or rehabilitation programs.
L
RCCD
Policy Adopted: 9/19/90
Policy Revised: 5/20/92
Policy Reviewed: 2/19/15
Adm. Regulation: R-2443
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 71
APPENDIX D
P
ROCEDURE FOR REPORTING EXPOSURE TO BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS
As the student enters the ARC Nursing Program, the student's health and safety is of primary importance. In the
course of providing health care, the student may be put at risk by contacting body fluids containing a blood borne
virus. The three blood borne viruses that are considered a risk to healthcare workers are HIV (the AIDS virus),
Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.
Immediately after a needle stick or exposure:
1. Promptly wash the area with soap and water for at least 5 minutes and irrigate mucus membrane (eye,
mouth, or skin) with water for 10 minutes. Eyes should be irrigated with clean water, saline, or a sterile
irrigant.
2. Prompt reporting is essential.
a. Student MUST IMMEDIATELY report any possible exposure to the clinical professor so that
procedure can be followed.
b. In the event it is determined that an exposure requiring "Post Exposure Prophylaxis" has occurred,
the student may be referred to a treating clinician. In consultation with the treating clinician, the
student will need to make a decision whether further treatment is needed.
3. Treatment may include the following:
a. Documentation of the route(s) of exposure and the circumstances of the incident
b. Identification and documentation of the source individual
c. Collection and testing of blood for HBV and HIV infection status
d. Post-exposure vaccines or medical treatment
e. Counseling
f. Evaluation of reported illness
g. Assessment of HBV immunization status
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 72
APPENDIX E
BUSINESS, CONSUMER SERVICES AND HOUSING AGENCY • GAVIN NEWSOM, GOVERNOR
BOARD OF REGISTERED NURSING
PO BOX 944210, Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
P (916) 322-3350 | TTY (800) 326-2297 | www.rn.ca.gov
STANDARDS OF COMPETENT PERFORMANCE
Excerpt from California Code of Regulations
Title 16 - Chapter 14
Website: http://www.rn.ca.gov/regulations/title16.shtml#1443.5
1443.5. STANDARDS OF COMPETENT PERFORMANCE
A registered nurse shall be considered to be competent when he/she consistently demonstrates the ability
to transfer scientific knowledge from social, biological and physical sciences in applying the nursing
process, as follows:
(1) Formulates a nursing diagnosis through observation of the client's physical condition and behavior,
and through interpretation of information obtained from the client and others, including the health team.
(2) Formulates a care plan, in collaboration with the client, which ensures that direct and indirect nursing
care services provide for the client's safety, comfort, hygiene, and protection, and for disease prevention
and restorative measures.
(3) Performs skills essential to the kind of nursing action to be taken, explains the health treatment to
the client and family and teaches the client and family how to care for the client's health needs.
(4) Delegates tasks to subordinates based on the legal scopes of practice of the subordinates and on the
preparation and capability needed in the tasks to be delegated, and effectively supervises nursing care
being given by subordinates.
(5) Evaluates the effectiveness of the care plan through observation of the client's physical condition
and behavior, signs and symptoms of illness, and reactions to treatment and through communication with
the client and the health team members, and modifies the plan as needed.
(6) Acts as the client's advocate, as circumstances require by initiating action to improve health care or
to change decisions or activities which are against the interests or wishes of the client, and by giving the
client the opportunity to make informed decisions about health care before it is provided.
NPR-I-20 06/1995 STANDARDS OF COMPETENT PERFORMANCE
REV 01/2011
Loretta S. Melby RN, BSN, MSN, Executive Officer
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 73
APPENDIX F
POLICY AND PROCEDURE REGARDING THE STUDENT WITH
D
ISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR, CHEMICAL, AND/OR EMOTIONAL IMPAIRMENT
(Board Approved 11/84. Rev. 7/07 EDP-B-03)
The ARC Nursing Program faculty requires nursing students to provide the highest quality safe patient care in a state
of mind and body conducive to promoting patient healing. To fulfill this requirement, students must be free of disruptive
behavior, chemical, and/or emotional impairment during participation in all aspects of the Nursing Program including
classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings.
The State Board of Registered Nursing has stated in its guidelines for schools of nursing in dealing with the matter of
nursing students impaired by alcoholism, drug abuse and emotional illness, the following:
In the matter of nursing students impaired by alcoholism, drug abuse and emotional illness, the California Board of
Registered Nursing recognizes that:
1. These are diseases and should be treated as such;
2. Personal and health problems involving these diseases can affect student’s academic and clinical
performance and that the impaired nursing student may pose a danger to self and a grave danger to the
patients in her or his care;
3. Nursing students who develop these diseases can be helped to recover;
4. It is the responsibility of the nursing student to voluntarily seek diagnosis and treatment for any suspected
illness; and
5. Confidential handling of the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases is essential.
Therefore, the Board of Registered Nursing expects schools of nursing with students impaired by these diseases to
offer appropriate assistance, either directly or by referral. Schools of nursing are asked to provide the policy and
factual material to incoming students on drug or alcohol abuse and mental illness among nursing students.
Furthermore, the Board expects that schools of nursing will ensure that professors have the responsibility and
authority to take immediate corrective action with regard to the student’s conduct and performance in the clinical
setting.
It is outside of the Board’s scope of function to endorse or recommend a particular course of therapy, however, it does
wish to inform nursing students of the importance of seeking voluntary help for conditions that could, if left unattended,
lead to disciplinary action and may prevent them from being licensed to practice nursing in the State of California.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING LICENSURE
The Board of Registered Nursing may deny a license on the grounds that the applicant has been convicted of a crime
and/or felony. (California Business and Professions Code, Section 480). If an arrest/conviction related to
drug/substance abuse or driving under the influence has occurred, the Board will request validation of rehabilitation
before issuing a license. Further information regarding these regulations can be found on the BRN website.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 74
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE
NURSING FACULTY POLICY AND PROCEDURE
R
EGARDING DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR, CHEMICAL, AND/OR EMOTIONAL IMPAIRMENT
The American River College Nursing Program faculty has developed the following policy/procedure in regard to the
nursing student with disruptive behavior, chemical, and/or emotional impairment. This policy/procedure is consistent
with the Board of Registered Nursing guidelines of November 1984 and revised in July 2007 and the American River
College Guide to Student Rights and Responsibilities.
American River College and all its clinical sites are to be considered Drug-Free Workplaces. (Please see Los Rios
Community College District Policy for details [Policy P-2443].)
POLICY
The professor has the responsibility and authority to take immediate corrective action with regard to students' conduct
and performance in the clinical, laboratory, or classroom setting. Any student who exhibits symptoms of disruptive
behavior, chemical, and/or emotional impairment will be removed from the classroom, laboratory, or clinical setting,
and the established procedure for assessment and rehabilitation will be followed.
Students are encouraged to self-identify any chemical or emotional impairments. These students will be encouraged
to meet with the Nursing Director regarding possible assistance and referral and will be individually evaluated regarding
current safety.
PROCEDURE
ASSESSMENT
The professor will evaluate whether the student is able to function safely and effectively in the clinical, laboratory,
or classroom setting. The professor will observe for signs and symptoms of chemical and/or emotional impairment.
The student's behavior may include, but is not limited to:
1. Physical impairment including, but not limited to: fine motor tremors, rapid or slurred speech, unsteady gait,
odor of alcohol
2. Impaired judgment including, but not limited to: inability to follow directions, difficulty with calculations,
inability to concentrate, and inability to focus on the patient's needs
3. Mental or emotional impairment including, but not limited to: impaired decision-making, acute or chronic
depressed mood, suicidal ideation, acute or chronic anxiety, disordered thinking, inability to set priorities
4. Any disruptive behavior or any conduct that would constitute good cause for discipline as set forth in LRCCD
Reg. 2441, sections 3.1 and 3.2 (see "Good Cause" that follows)
5. Inconsistent behavior patterns
6. Chronic tardiness or absenteeism
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 75
INTERVENTION
When a student exhibits any of the above behaviors, the following actions will take place:
1. The student will be immediately removed to a private area from the classroom, laboratory, or clinical
area. If appropriate, the professor may request additional assistance, i.e. from campus or facility security.
The professor will take appropriate steps to ensure confidentiality.
2. The professor will discuss signs and behaviors observed, allow the student to provide a brief verbal
explanation regarding the exhibited behavior(s), and question the student regarding possible substance
use. The behaviors and the discussion will be documented by the professor.
3. If the professor continues to believe that the student's disruptive behavior is unsafe, the professor will
immediately report the incident to the Nursing Director or designee and relieve the student of further
classroom or clinical responsibility for the day. The student and the professor will arrange for appropriate
transportation. An escort may go with the student if indicated.
a. If the behavior is felt to be due to alcohol or other drugs, the student will be directed to the nearest
Emergency Department or other collection/testing site for immediate appropriate testing. Refusal
to be tested shall be documented and signed by the professor and the student. The professor will
inform the student that refusal may lead to dismissal from the Nursing Program.
b. If the student refuses assistance with transportation (if such has been indicated), the professor will
immediately notify the Nursing Director or designee.
4. It is outside of the Nursing Program scope to diagnose or recommend a specific course of treatment.
However, a referral to the ARC Student Health Center or a private practitioner may be made for
assessment, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations. The "Health Referral and Clearance Form" will
be completed according to directions on the form.
5. By the end of the next business day, the written referral form documenting the behaviors indicative of
impairment will be completed by the observing professor and a copy will be given to the student. The
original referral form will be forwarded to the Nursing Director or designee.
6. All information regarding cases of students impaired by chemicals or emotional illness will be treated with
utmost confidentiality. All written records shall be kept in a separate, locked file and shall not be included
in the student's academic folder.
7. By the end of the next business day from receipt of the referral, the student will make an appointment to
see the Nursing Director or designee to discuss and review those behaviors that led to the classroom,
laboratory, or clinical exclusion, and their implications for continuance in the program.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 76
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
1. When a professor suspects a student is impaired and a danger to self or others, the professor has the
authority to remove the student for up to two class periods for assessment. When a student is removed,
the Nursing Director or designee will be notified of the student's removal.
a. If the student refuses to submit to the required assessment, the student will meet with the Nursing
Director or designee within 48 hours of the initial impairment identification to discuss suspension
proceedings according to ARC policy.
b. If the student follows through with the required assessment and is found to have no impairment,
the student will be readmitted to the next class or clinical period without the penalty of missed time.
2. If, after assessment, the student is found to have a documented impairment, the Nursing Director or
designee will determine whether the impairment constitutes a disability for which reasonable
accommodation must be provided and:
a. The current semester's professors will meet with the Nursing Director or designee to review student
options for the rest of the semester. These options may include reasonable accommodations that
would allow the student to complete the program.
b. The student will then meet with the current semester’s professor and Nursing Director or designee
to discuss the decided corrective measures. If no reasonable accommodations are available or
appropriate and suspension is recommended, the Nursing Director or designee will meet with the
appropriate college administrator to present the student situation, at which time suspension may
be authorized.
3. If suspension has been pursued, the student may request program re-entry after a minimum of one
semester. The following readmission procedures will be followed:
a. Re-entry is on a space available basis. All re-entry policies and procedures are in effect.
b. Proof of successful completion or active enrollment in a supervised treatment program must be
presented.
c. If chemical impairment was the issue, the student must be substance free. Further testing may be
required.
d. Failure to submit evidence of on-going treatment or failure to comply with testing if required will
result in dismissal from the program.
e. A second documented incident of impaired behavior will result in dismissal from the program.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 77
GOOD CAUSE DEFINED
As defined in the Los Rios Community College District Standard of Conduct 2441, good cause includes, but is not
limited to the following offenses:
Section 3.1
(a) Continued disruptive behavior, continued willful disobedience, habitual profanity or vulgarity, or the open
and persistent defiance of the authority of, or persistent abuse of, college personnel.
(b) Assault, battery, or any threat of force or violence upon a student or college personnel.
(c) Willful misconduct which results in injury or death to a student or college personnel or which results in
cutting, defacing or other injury to any real or personal property owned by the district.
(d) The use, sale, or possession on campus of, or presence on campus under the influence of, any controlled
substance.
(e) Willful or persistent smoking in any area where smoking has been prohibited by law or by regulation of
the governing board.
(f) Persistent, serious misconduct where other means of correction have failed to bring about proper conduct.
Section 3.2 Good cause is further defined, but is not limited to the following:
(a) Violation of college rules and regulations including those concerning student organizations, the use of
college facilities, or the time, place and manner of public expression and distribution of materials.
(b) Obstruction or disruption of teaching, research, administrative disciplinary procedures or other college
activities, including its community service activity, or of other authorized activities on college-controlled
premises.
(c) Theft of or non-accidental damage to property of the college or a member of the college community or
campus visitor while on campus or at college-sponsored events.
(d) Unauthorized entry to or use of college facilities.
(e) Dishonesty, such as cheating, plagiarism or furnishing false information to the college, forgery, alteration
or misuse of college documents, records or identifications.
(f) Knowing possession or use of explosives, dangerous chemicals or deadly weapons on college property
or at a college function without prior authorization of the College President or designated representative.
(g) Use, possession, distribution or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages, narcotics or dangerous
drugs on college property or at College-sponsored events.
(h) Soliciting or assisting another to do any act which would subject a student to expulsion, suspension,
probation or other discipline pursuant to this policy.
(i) Violation of any order of a college president, notice of which has been given prior to such violation, and
which order is not inconsistent with any of the other provisions of this policy. This notice may be given by
publication in the college newspaper, by posting on an official bulletin board designated for this purpose
or by any other means reasonably calculated to inform students of its provisions.
(j) Attempting to commit an act that would be cause for disciplinary action identified above.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 78
Los Rios Community College District
Allied Health Programs
HE
ALTH REFERRAL AND CLEARANCE
DIRECTIONS: Professor completes "Referral Statement" indicating the reason for referral to the student’s Health
Care Provider for evaluation. Student signs the release of information.
HEALTH CARE PROVIDER: Completes "Health Clearance Statement" following the examination and assessment of
the student’s ability to perform essential functions required of allied health students.
Completed form must be returned to the Program Director or designee before the student may return to the course.
REFERRAL STATEMENT: ________________________________________, is not allowed to return to the allied
health program classroom / clinical setting due to the following:
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Printed Name of Professor Signature Date Time
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Printed Name of Program Director Signature Date Time
RE
LEASE OF INFORMATION:
I grant permission for the release of information to the Nursing Program Director and/or designee at: ARC □ SCC □
Student Name Student Signature Date
HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL HEALTH CLEARANCE STATEMENT
I have examined _________________________________________and recommend that the student:
1) Return to the classroom with no restrictions Yes______ No______
2) Return to practice direct patient care in the
clinical / hospital setting with no restrictions. Yes______ No______
Comments:
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Printed Name of Provider Signature of Provider Date License and Number
_________________________________________________________________________(___)______________
Address City State Zip Code Telephone
□ ARC □ SCC
□ Dental Assistant □ Dental Hygiene
□
Funeral Service □ Paramedic
□
P
TA □
O
TA □ Respiratory Care
□
R
N □
V
N □ CNA
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 79
APPENDIX G
BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR STUDENT CLINICAL PLACEMENT
(B
OARD APPROVED 06/05; EDP-I-33 REV 10/04/05; 08/08; 11/10)
BUSINESS, CONSUMER SERVICES AND HOUSING AGENCY • GAVIN NEWSOM, GOVERNOR
BOARD OF REGISTERED NURSING
PO BOX 944210, Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
P (916) 322-3350 | TTY (800) 326-2297 | www.rn.ca.gov
Loretta S. Melby RN, BSN, MSN, Executive Officer
During the past the Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) has received numerous questions regarding the issue of
background checks on registered nursing students prior to clinical placement. The Board has been asked to assist
programs with meeting this requirement.
The use of background checks on individuals working in clinical settings is one of the means agencies use to help
protect their clients/clients. While obtaining background checks on employees is not new for clinical agencies, the
Joint Commission has added to their Human Resources standards (HR.1.20) a section related to criminal background
checks. The Joint Commission standard requires agencies to include nursing students in criminal background checks
when required by state law, regulation or hospital policy. (www.jointcommission.org)
The BRN does not require prelicensure nursing programs to screen potential students for a history of convictions prior
to acceptance into their program. The BRN only requires background checks on criminal convictions at the time of
application for licensure. Furthermore, BRN staff reviews all applications with prior convictions on an individual case-by-
case basis before issuing or denying licensure. The criteria used by the Board in evaluating an applicant's present
eligibility for licensure are found in the California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section 1445. (www.rn.ca.gov)
Clinical agencies have the right to establish criteria that would exclude a student from placement at their facility.
Those clinical agencies that have a policy that include student nurses in their requirement for criminal background
checks will need to comply with their own policy to be compliant with the Joint Commission Standard HR 1.20. On
the other hand agencies may use different criteria for students than are used for employees or exempt them entirely
and still meet Joint Commission Standards.
Nursing programs should establish a written policy describing the process for obtaining background checks for those
clinical agencies that require them. The Board recommends that the policy on background checks, like all program
policies, be published in documents that are available to applicants and students. Examples include admission
packets and school catalogs and/or nursing student handbooks.
The written policies should include the following:
• Who will perform the search (the college, the agency or an independent service);
• Who will pay for the process;
• Where and by whom the results will be maintained and protected (student confidentiality);
• What criteria will be used to exclude a student from a particular clinical placement; and
• What alternatives if any will be available in the event a student is denied a clinical placement.
The Board encourages clinical agencies and nursing programs to work collaboratively in establishing standardized
policies that are the least restrictive possible while also protecting the rights of consumers. A process that allows for
a case-by-case review of students with prior convictions is encouraged. However, the burden of proof lies with the
student to demonstrate evidence of rehabilitation that is acceptable to the clinical agencies and the nursing program.
(See the document "Prior Convictions and Disciplinary Actions" on the Board's Website.)
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 80
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS RELATED TO BACKGROUND CHECKS
Question: Does the BRN require student nurses to undergo criminal background checks prior to admission
in a prelicensure school of nursing?
No. The Board has no authority to request a criminal background check except at the time of application for licensure.
Question: Does the Joint Commission require that student nurses in California have criminal background
checks done prior to the students participating in a clinical rotation in a Joint Commission approved facility?
No. The Joint Commission requires that clinical agencies follow state law/regulation and their own organization's
policy regarding background checks on students. (See Joint Commission website www.jointcommission.org) There
is no state law in California that mandates background checks be completed on nursing students. Some clinical
agencies have included student nurses in the category of individuals that need to be screened, therefore, the Joint
Commission would also require that nursing students need background checks done.
Question: If a clinical agency denies a student with a prior conviction from being placed at their facility does
the BRN require that the student be dropped from that course or from the program?
No. The program is encouraged to evaluate such students, in collaboration with their clinical agencies, to find possible
alternatives for the student to complete the objectives of the course. All students are expected to meet course
objectives as defined by the course syllabi and program policy.
Question: If students have had a criminal background check done as part of clinical placement can they use
that information as part of their application packet for licensure?
No. The Board requires a background check on all applicants for licensure by the Department of Justice. As a health
care licensing Board, the background check conducted on applicants is more extensive than most employers obtain.
Question: If a student is denied access to a clinical site due to a positive criminal background check does
the nursing program have to find an alternative site for the student to meet course requirements?
No. The Board encourages programs and agencies to work collaboratively to review students with a prior conviction on
an individual basis since the specific conviction may not prevent the student from ultimately being licensed. While the
BRN encourages alternative placement ultimately the program would need to follow their published policy regarding the
options available to the student in this situation. (See the attached Criteria for Rehabilitation, CCR 1445.)
Question: Can the college or university request the Department of Justice to perform a criminal background
check on their nursing students in order to meet clinical agency requirements for placement?
No. Only authorized agencies may request the Department of Justice to perform criminal background checks. The
nursing program or the agency may utilize private companies that provide background checks for a fee. The Board
does not require the use of such a service nor does it endorse any specific company.
Question: Should results of criminal background checks be placed in the student's academic file?
The self-disclosed student information and the results of a background check are confidential information. The nursing
program must develop in consultation with their administration and clinical agencies a means to safeguard this
information. It is recommended that the process, maintenance and security of student background checks should be
described in the program's contract with those agencies requiring screening of nursing students and in policies
provided to students and applicants.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 81
Question: Do students need to have a background check done every time they go to a new clinical agency?
The Board encourages nursing programs to work collaboratively with other nursing programs in their geographical
area to develop a standardized policy with all clinical agencies requiring background checks on nursing students.
Since there is no state law or regulation that mandates background check on nursing students, individual agency
policy is the source of this requirement. Working collaboratively within a geographic area is probably the most efficient
way to coordinate requirements in the least disruptive manner.
Question: Can a clinical agency refuse to allow a student to do a clinical course at their agency as a result
of a prior conviction?
Yes. The Board would encourage the nursing program to work with the agency to clearly identify the types of prior
convictions that would exclude a student from clinical rotation. The BRN suggests using CCR 1445 as a guide.
Question: Can a nursing program require students to meet clear background checks prior to admission or
as a requirement for progression in the program?
Admission and progression policies are the purview of the program & the institution. The nursing program should
seek guidance from their institutions legal counsel. The Board regulations require that all policies affecting students
be written, available to students, and applicants.
Attachment:
TITLE 16, CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS:
1445. Criteria for Rehabilitation
(a) When considering the denial of a license under Section 480 of the code, the board, in evaluating the
rehabilitation of the applicant and his/her present eligibility for a license will consider the following criteria:
(1) The nature and severity of the act(s) or crime(s) under consideration as grounds for denial.
(2) Evidence of any act(s) committed subsequent to the act(s) or crime(s) under consideration as grounds
for denial which also could be considered as grounds for denial under Section 480 of the code.
(3) The time that has elapsed since commission of the act(s) or crime(s) referred to in subdivision (1) or (2).
(4) The extent to which the applicant has complied with any terms of parole, probation, restitution, or any
other sanctions lawfully imposed against the applicant.
(5) Evidence, if any, of rehabilitation submitted by the applicant.
(b) When considering the suspension or revocation of a license on the grounds that a registered nurse has been
convicted of a crime, the board, in evaluating the rehabilitation of such person and his/her eligibility for a license
will consider the following criteria:
(1) Nature and severity of the act(s) or offense(s).
(2) Total criminal record.
(3) The time that has elapsed since commission of the act(s) or offense(s).
(4) Whether the licensee has complied with any terms of parole, probation, restitution or any other sanctions
lawfully imposed against the licensee.
(5) If applicable, evidence of expungement proceedings pursuant to Section 1203.4 of the Penal Code.
(6) Evidence, if any, of rehabilitation submitted by the licensee.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 82
APPENDIX H
ACCOMMODATION CHECKLIST
Every semester students are required to complete the following items in order to be provided testing
accommodations. Students are unable to utilize Disabled Students Programs & Services (DSPS) assistance
until documentation is on file with all current course faculty and DSPS. This must be completed by the end
of the first week of classes.
Prior to the first day of class, obtain a "Disability Verification Letter with Accommodations" that indicates
the type of accommodations needed for testing. Ask for a confidential envelope to use in order to return
the form to DSPS.
On the first day of class, give the form to the faculty to complete specific instructions regarding the testing
procedure and obtain a faculty signature.
The original proctor form will be returned to the student in a sealed confidential envelope.
Go to DSPS by the end of the first week of classes to submit the sealed confidential envelope with the
signed form. Most students will test with nursing faculty at times arranged by the faculty. These students
will be provided the accommodations required per DSPS. The two most common accommodations are
extra time on exams and a distraction-reduced environment. Faculty will explain the timing and procedures
for examinations with DSPS students. A very small number of students are accommodated in DSPS for
testing. Usually, these are students who need special equipment during testing or private accommodations.
Instructions for students permitted to test in DSPS are:
Exam appointments must be scheduled to take place on the same day the exam is given in class.
Provide faculty a written copy of testing appointments.
If the accommodation does not specify the need for a private room, students will be testing in a
distraction reduced group room set up by nursing faculty.
A group setting will be provided for the final unless otherwise needed (i.e., need of a computer scribe
reader). If, due to a disability, the DSPS counselor or LD Specialist determines that a private room
is warranted, it will be stated specifically on the form.
Students must immediately notify faculty if DSPS staff states they are unable to meet scheduling
requirements.
REMINDERS
• Exam and time allotment begin at the appointment time. Plan to arrive a few minutes early to be ready to
start taking the exam at the appointed time. Students will lose whatever time is missed.
• Students are required to cancel their appointment and notify DSPS and faculty in the event that they are
unable to keep the scheduled appointment time. A failed or "No Show" appointment will result in a RCA.
• Points will be deducted for taking an exam at a time other than when it was scheduled.
• The accommodation plan must be followed. This includes test location. For example, if students are
designated as needing a private room, a private room must be utilized. Students may not
independently decide to test in the group setting. Any changes to the plan must be derived from the
DSPS counselor and requires a new "Disability Verification Letter with Accommodations" form.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 83
APPENDIX I
ACADEMIC CHECKLIST
SEMESTER ONE – NURSE 400
Congratulations! You have been accepted into the Nursing Program. Though graduation appears a long way off, it is
important that you make plans now to complete ARC nursing requirement courses AND graduation requirements.
1. We encourage all students to meet with a counselor and complete a Curriculum Planning sheet during the
beginning of first semester.
2. Are there any general education course left to complete? It is easier to complete general education courses in
the summer session, so plan accordingly. ARC has a one (1) unit of PE requirement which is an unexpected
requirement.
3. Have you completed the NURSE 400 co-requisite, COMM 301? This course must be taken prior to or with
NURSE 400. Enrollment in NURSE 410 cannot occur unless this requirement is met.
SEMESTER TWO – NURSE 410
You have completed the first semester of the Nursing Program. Keep up your energy and check out the following.
1. Have you completed the NURSE 410 co-requisite, SOC 300 or ANTH 310? One of these courses must be
taken prior to or with NURSE 410. You will not be allowed to enroll in NURSE 420, unless the Sociology or
Anthropology requirement has been met.
2. If you have not done so already, review coursework completed outside the Los Rios Community College District
(i.e., a speech class taken at Sierra College). The counselor may have approved course equivalencies. Make
sure that transcripts for corequisite courses taken outside of Los Rios are sent to Admissions and Records, also.
3. Plan ahead for completion of these general education courses and graduation requirements: Humanities, PE,
history, ethnic/multicultural studies, and reading and math competencies. The second year of the Nursing
Program is not necessarily easier than the first. Therefore, it is best to complete these courses/requirements early.
SEMESTER THREE – NURSE 420
You are in the second year of the Nursing Program. This is an exciting time in your nursing development as you
assume greater accountability and responsibility for patient care. Students have often said they begin to feel like a
"real nurse" in third semester. Graduation is less than a year away. It is crucial you ensure no unforeseen surprises
will occur when you petition to graduate next semester. Here is what you should do:
• See a counselor sometime this semester to determine which classes you must still complete to graduate.
In the past, some students have waited to see a counselor until they petition to graduate in fourth semester.
Those students have been surprised at a late date that some general education course (i.e., PE,
humanities, History) must still be completed before they can earn their degree. Remember, it is your
responsibility to ensure courses you need to graduate have been completed. Admissions and Records will
not excuse courses or competencies required because you "forgot" to take them.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 84
SEMESTER FOUR – NURSE 430
You are in the final semester of the Nursing Program. Are you counting down the days, hours, or minutes? It is easy
to get wrapped up in graduation plans. However, there are some crucial activities to be completed this semester.
1. File a petition to graduate – EARLY. The dates to complete this requirement will be announced by your fourth
semester faculty. Critical dates will be listed on the N430 course calendar. There are no exceptions to the
deadline dates. It is your responsibility to petition to graduate on time. If you do not petition by the deadline
date, you will not graduate.
2. What to do about those general education courses? It is important that you enroll in these courses now. If you
delay completion of these courses until after completing fourth semester, you will delay your graduation. The
Board of Registered Nursing will not issue an interim permit until you complete either BRN nursing requirements
or ARC graduation requirements.
BRN APPLICATION AND LICENSURE
1. Early in fourth semester, the faculty will go over the application process with you.
a. Application information will be distributed. It is also available online at www.rn.ca.gov.
b. We suggest you apply for an Interim Permit.
c. You will begin by going to the California Board of Registered Nursing website and register for a BreEZe
account. Follow the directions.
2. The Nursing Director will verify online that you are a graduate after your transcript has been updated. After that
you may take the NCLEX.
3. Special Issues
a. Potential Disciplinary Action: Any student with a police history will need additional documentation to send
to the Board. Information about this can be also found on the BRN website. Applications that result in
review by enforcement staff are delayed due to lack of supporting documentation enabling BRN staff to
make a prompt decision to approve or deny the application. When you fill out a licensure application, be
sure to include all of the following information CLEARLY LABELED, with your application packet:
1) Written Statement
• A written statement, in your own words, describing the incident(s), date(s) incident(s)
occurred, outcome (e.g. paid fine, placed on probation, court ordered classes or
rehabilitation), and any rehabilitative efforts or changes to prevent future occurrences.
2) Certified Arrest/Incident Reports (Note: Court documents DO NOT include arrest reports and
MUST be requested separately).
• Contact the arresting agency for this report. The arresting agency is the agency that
conducted the arrest and/or issued the citation (e.g. Highway Patrol, Police Department,
Sheriff's Office). If the arrest documents are purged or unavailable, please provide a letter
or proof from the arresting agency which confirms that information.
• If the arrest is for DUI, ensure the Blood/Breath Alcohol Content (BAC) is included in the
report.
3) Certified Court Documents
• Contact the court to get a certified copy of all court documents pertaining to the conviction(s)
including satisfaction/compliance with all court ordered probation orders.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 85
4) Evidence of Rehabilitation
• Include completion certificates of court ordered/voluntary rehabilitation.
5) Reference letters for Alcohol or Drug Related Convictions
• Recent, date letters from professionals in the community; for example, AA/NA Sponsor,
counselor, probation officer, employer, professor, etc. who can address an awareness of the
past misconduct and current rehabilitation; for example, use/non-use of alcohol/drugs. The
letters must be signed and dated within the last year by the author of the letter.
6) Reference Letters for All Other Convictions
• Recent, dated letters from professionals in the community; for example, counselor, probation
officer, employer, professor, etc. who can address an awareness of the past misconduct
and current rehabilitation; honesty/integrity, management of anger/stress. The letters must
be signed and dated within the last year by the author of the letter.
7) Note: For Traffic Citations > $1000.00
• A letter of explanation is all that is required
8) Work Performance
• A copy of a recent work evaluation or review which may or may not be from a health related
agency.
9) Inquiries
• Phone calls requesting application status further delays the process for everyone. Calls to
analysts should not be made until a file has been in enforcement for at least four (4) weeks,
not 4 weeks since the application was submitted to the Board of Registered Nursing.
b. Individual Candidate Rosters will not be submitted until the end of the semester for students who are
currently completing courses for graduation (excluding NURSE 430), have math or reading competencies
to complete, or who are not passing NURSE 430. Students who have unpaid fines, unreturned library
materials, etc., will have a college hold on their transcripts. The entire class set of transcripts will be held
until all students in the class clear any college holds.
c. Incomplete Graduation Requirements: Students who have not completed all BRN or ARC graduation
requirements by the end of the fourth semester will have their license issuance delayed. For example, a
student finished the fourth semester of the Nursing Program in December, yet still needs to take a
humanities class. The student’s candidate roster will not be sent to the BRN until one month before the
class is to be completed. If the student has paid for an Interim Permit, they will receive the permit upon
completion of the course (as stated on the individual candidate roster). The nursing license will not be
issued until after transcripts are next processed.
d. Completing only Nursing Requirements versus Graduation Requirements: We recommend that all
students who do not possess a previous degree take all courses required for graduation. Many of the
local agencies will not hire candidates without degrees. Failure to sit for NCLEX-RN as a degreed
candidate may affect the ability to obtain licensure in another state. (California is one of the few states
that allow students to obtain nursing licensure without a degree.)
Students who plan to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in nursing, generally must have completed an
Associate’ Degree or Diploma in nursing.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 86
APPENDIX J
REPORTING PRIOR CONVICTIONS OR DISCIPLINE AGAINST LICENSES
Applicants are required under law to report all misdemeanor and felony convictions. "Driving under the influence"
convictions must be reported. Convictions must be reported even if they have been adjudicated, dismissed or expunged
or even if a court ordered diversion program has been completed under the Penal Code or under Article 5 of the Vehicle
Code. Also, all disciplinary action against an applicant’s registered nurse, practical nurse, vocational nurse, or other health
care related license or certificate must be reported. Also any fine, infraction, or traffic violation over $1000.00 must be
reported.
Failure to report prior convictions or disciplinary action is considered falsification of application and is grounds
for denial of licensure or revocation of license.
When reporting prior convictions or disciplinary action, applicants are required to provide a full written explanation of:
circumstances surrounding the arrest(s), conviction(s) or disciplinary action(s); the date of incident(s), conviction(s) or
disciplinary action(s); specific violations(s) (cite section of law if convicted), court location or jurisdiction, sanctions or
penalties imposed and completion dates. Provide certified copies of arrest and court documents and for disciplinary
proceedings against any license as a RN or any healthcare related license; includes copies of state board
determination/decisions, citations and letters of reprimand.
NOTE: For drug and alcohol convictions include documents that indicate blood alcohol content (BAC) and sobriety date.
To make a determination in these cases, the Board considers the nature and severity of the offense, additional subsequent
acts, recency of acts or crimes, compliance with court sanctions, and evidence of rehabilitation.
The burden of proof lies with the applicant to demonstrate acceptable documented evidence of rehabilitation.
Examples of rehabilitation evidence would include, but not be limited to:
• Recent, dated letter from applicant describing the event and rehabilitative efforts or changes in life to prevent
future problems or occurrences.
• Recent and signed letters of reference on official letterhead from employers, nursing professors, health
processionals, professional counselors, parole or probation officers, Support Group Facilitators or sponsors, o
r
ot
her individuals in positions of authority who are knowledgeable about your rehabilitation efforts.
• Letters from recognized recovery programs and/or counselors attesting to current sobriety and length of time of
sobriety, if there is a history of alcohol or drug abuse.
• Submit copies of recent work evaluations.
• Proof of community work, schooling, self-improvement efforts.
• Court-issued certificate of rehabilitation or evidence of expungement, proof of compliance with criminal probation
or parole, and orders of the court.
All of the above items should be mailed directly to the Board by the individual(s) or agency that is providing information
about the applicant. Have these items sent to the Board of Registered Nursing, Licensing Unit, P.O. Box 944210,
Sacramento, CA 94244-2100.
It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide sufficient rehabilitation evidence on a timely basis so that a
licensing determination can be made. All evidence of rehabilitation must be submitted prior to being found eligible for
an examination.
An applicant is also required to immediately report, in writing, to the Board any conviction(s) or disciplinary
action(s) which occur between the date the application was filed and the date that a California registered nursing
license is issued. Failure to report this information is grounds for denial of licensure or revocation of license.
NOTE: The application must be completed and signed by the applicant under the penalty of perjury.
(The information above is adapted from the California Board of Registered Nursing website: www.rn.ca.gov current as of July 2011.)
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 87
APPENDIX K
LAB MANUALS
WELCOME!
Our purpose is to assist faculty with helping students meet course objectives. We, as Instructional Assistants, may
be assigned by faculty to assist students in scheduled practice times.
The Health and Education Division Labs are composed of a Computer Lab, a Skills Lab, and a Simulation Lab.
Lab Instructional Assistants
Computer Lab: Lisa Mundling
Skills Lab: Gordon Ng
Simulation Lab: Lisa Mundling
Table of Contents Page
Welcome ...................................................................................................................... 89
Computer Lab .............................................................................................................. 90
Health & Education Division Computer Lab Student Acceptable Use Policy ............... 91
Skills Lab ..................................................................................................................... 94
Skills Lab Student Responsibilities & Usage Guidelines .............................................. 95
Simulation Lab ............................................................................................................. 96
Health & Education Division Simulation Lab Student Usage Agreement ..................... 97
Safety Manual .............................................................................................................. 98
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 88
C
OMPUTER LAB
The Computer Lab is used primarily as an online testing center for the Health & Education (HEED) programs at
American River College. However, the computer lab also has a variety of computer assisted instruction (CAI)
programs which are used either as a requirement for class or as an optional resource to enhance student learning.
These practice programs help students learn and review the knowledge base and skills they will use in the clinical
setting. Students can access these programs under the supervision of their professors, or by appointment with the
instructional assistant in conjunction with their professor. Some of the programs in the computer lab have practice
exams available to assist with preparation for taking program specific certification examinations. An additional
computer resource for students includes the Learning Resource Center (LRC), which also has some of the nursing
software, or CAI programs available to students. The LRC is open on a drop-in basis.
The Computer Lab is located in HEED 713.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 89
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE
HEALTH AND EDUCATION DIVISION COMPUTER LAB ROOM 713
STUDENT ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
WHAT IS EXPECTED?
In the interest of promoting academic freedom and with the understanding that students attending a community
college are recognized as mature and responsible adults, the college maintains an open and unfiltered system with
regard to Internet access. However, all students are expected to comply with district standards and the specific rules
set forth below. In addition to these general rules, students are expected to abide by the specific rules and regulations
posted in the computer lab. The use of the Health and Education Computer Lab resources is a privilege, not a right,
and may be revoked if abused. The user is personally responsible for his/her actions in accessing and utilizing the
college's computer resources. Sanctions as identified in the Student Code of Conduct are imposed on students who
violate the provisions of the Acceptable Use Policy.
In order for the Health and Education Division to satisfy software license agreements, all users must be informed of,
and agree to follow Lab use conditions.
Current enrollment in course work within the Health and Education Division corresponding with the software
being used is necessary for admittance to the lab.
All signs posted in the Lab must be adhered to.
Food, drink, pets, bicycles and children are NOT permitted in the Health and Education Computer Lab.
No cellular telephone usage is permitted in the lab. Ringers should be turned on silent so they do not cause a
disturbance. The lab assistant telephone is not for personal use.
Personal belongings must be stored out of traffic areas, clear of doorways, and away from the portable laptop
cart.
Directions must be followed when given by any lab assistant or instructor concerning use of
equipment/facilities or student conduct. If you encounter a problem with any of the computing
equipment, please contact the Lab Assistant.
Students may not be in the computer lab without the supervision of an instructor or lab assistant.
Students may not install copy and/or down load software, alter system files, or disconnect any cables on
computers or other equipment; including the installation of games or any other software not supported directly
by the Health and Education Division Computer Lab.
Users may not attempt to physically move any equipment in the lab. Moving equipment may damage the
equipment and/or cause network connectivity problems.
PRINTING services are NOT available to students.
Students may save work on Memory/USB stick. Student work saved onto computers will be deleted
on a daily basis or any time a computer is restarted.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 90
N
etwork
Proper use of the network does not include using Real Player, MacroMedia, Windows Media Player and
other like programs for the playing of music, radio stations, video of any type or format etc. Use of Real
Player, and other like programs for teleconferencing and collaborative efforts, is acceptable use of College
equipment. Inappropriate use of the network ties up network resources and causes slow network response
times. Network drops are monitored by Network Operations and any system found to be performing
excessive network activity will be cut off from the network until it is determined whether or not the network
traffic is justified. Examples of improper installed software that will cause the computer(s) to be taken off
the network due to high traffic loads are: Audio Galaxy, Morpheus, Napster, Gnutella, and BearShare.
Playing Internet games or the use of IRC (or any other real-time chat application), unless it is part of a class
activity, is not acceptable use of the college network. These activities use up scarce network capacity.
Users should not provide, assist in, or gain unauthorized access to College computing or network
resources.
Users should not attempt to circumvent or defeat computer or network security measures.
Attempts by students to obtain, manipulate, delete or change the contents of another user's files,
passwords, etc., are regarded as infractions of the January 1980 California Computer Crime Penal Code
(Senate Bill No. 66). Attempts to 'break' the operating system constitute a felony under this law.
Users should not connect personal computers or any other device to the American River College
network. Do not plug your personal computers into the campus network!
Users should not use information technology resources for non-College, unsanctioned, commercial
activity.
Internet
The following rules and restrictions concerning Internet connection must be followed, where applicable. Students
must NOT:
Transmit unsolicited information, which contains obscene, indecent, lewd or lascivious material or other
material which explicitly or implicitly refers to sexual conduct.
Transmit unsolicited information, which contains profane language or panders to bigotry, sexism, or other
forms of discrimination.
Use the Internet to gain unauthorized access to any computer.
Engage in personal attacks: writing bullying, intimidating, threatening or harassing entries.
Make threats (directed towards others or yourself) without expecting the recipients of those threats, the
college, and the police to consider them real.
Engage in inappropriate mass mailing, which includes multiple mailings to newsgroups, mailing lists, or
individuals, e.g. "spamming", "flooding" or "bombing."
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 91
Inappropriate Language or Materials
Since the college's computer labs are public areas, students shall not access Internet sites that contain pornography,
gratuitous violence, non-instructional game interaction, or any material that is deemed to be offensive to others and
that is not consistent with District or College policy and/or the laws of the United States. The intent of this provision is
not to limit academic freedom but to respect the sensibilities of others using these facilities. Material of this type is
offensive to many people and is not acceptable at American River College. Furthermore, the definition of pornography
is not open for debate. If a student inadvertently accesses material containing nudity/pornography (easy enough to
do), the student should promptly exit the application and inform the instructor or lab assistant of the error. Students
who are doing legitimate academic research on a subject that may be controversial must notify the Lab
Instructional Assistant before using the computer to access this material.
Students who do not comply with these terms may face disciplinary measures including formal disciplinary actions
from American River College, liability for all damages, attorney fees and court costs.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 92
S
KILLS LAB
The Skills Lab consists of five stations modeling a hospital environment. These stations include electric beds, wall
air, oxygen, and suction. IV pumps, catheterization practice models, and oxygen equipment are also available.
Students are allocated time to practice skills that they will use in their clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities.
Manikins that are used for practicing and becoming accustomed to various skills before using the aforementioned skills
on human patients are available. The Skills Lab is an area simulating various healthcare settings. Students will learn
via demonstrations and simulated hands-on practice. This is done in formal classes, scheduled practice times, and
open practice sessions. Learning can be accomplished in group and individual practice sessions. Students have
access to a variety of resources such as medical equipment, reference books, and other learning references.
The Skills Lab is located in HEED 714.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 93
SKILLS LAB
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND USAGE GUIDELINES
1. Personal belongings including student backpacks are not allowed in the Skills Lab. There are lockers
available near the student rest rooms where belongings can be stored. Students must provide their own lock
for these lockers, and the lock and student belongings must be removed at the end of the lab period.
2. For open lab, sign in on the computer at the front of the room. (This information is vital for annual statistical
reports).
3. Each student is required to provide their own supplies. (i.e. Students must provide supplies found in the Skills
Kit. Supplies for skills and equipment not contained in the Skills Kit will be provided.)
4. When practicing skills, students are to remove shoes when on the beds.
5. Tables and chairs are to be kept clean and neatly in place.
6. Food and beverages are NOT permitted in the Skills Lab.
7. Beds are to be left made and neat.
8. Dirty linen is to be placed in the linen hampers.
9. Students are to be sure to label their Skills Kit clearly with their name.
10. If a special lab setup is required for skills practice, students should request lab setup as soon in advance as
possible from their professor or the lab IA. This will limit down time as students wait for labs to be set up.
11. Cell phones are to be in "off," "silent," or "vibrate" mode when in the Skills Lab. Conversations on cell phones
must take place outside of the lab.
12. Students are to respect other students using the lab and are to keep personal conversations to a minimum.
13. Students are NOT allowed in the storage area unless accompanied by their professor of an IA.
14. When leaving, students need to return the Skills Lab to the state in which it was found and sign out.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 94
S
IMULATION LAB
The Simulation Lab replicates a hospital environment where students can pull concepts learned from theoretical
knowledge and skill sets to provide full patient care. The patients are high fidelity human patient simulators. High
fidelity simulators combine technology, run by way of computer, large plastic dolls, and embedded task trainers to
provide realistic physiological and anatomical conditions. The human patient simulators have dynamic vital signs that
students can palpate and/or auscultate. The simulators’ condition can change at any time base on the physiological,
psychological, or physical condition, and the care a student provides.
The Simulation Lab is a collaborative setting that allows students to think and act in real time with peers and patients
they can interact with to promote better understanding of nursing theory and the clinical environment. The simulators
range in age from newborn and infant, through childhood, to adulthood of both childbearing age and older adults.
Students have the opportunity to care for patients from cradle to grave in a realistic and safe learning environment
under the guidance of faculty members. The Simulation Lab offers many of the same tools and supplies that students
will use in the hospital setting, allowing students a more realistic experience in the care of their simulated patient. The
Simulation Lab can also provide learning opportunities that may not be available in the community clinical setting,
due to area demographics or rarity of specific conditions. These learning opportunities can include specific a disease
state or situational scenarios.
The Simulation Lab is located in HEED 712.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 95
HEALTH AND EDUCATION DIVISION SIMULATION LAB ROOM 712
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE VIRTUAL HOSPITAL
STUDENT USAGE AGREEMENT
The simulation lab, ARC Virtual Hospital, is intended to replicate a hospital setting. It is intended to be a safe
and supportive learning environment. Like any hospital, there are policies and procedures to follow. Review
the following lab usage agreement:
Students are to have current enrollment in a course that makes use of the Simulation lab.
Students will sign in and out using the Simulation Lab Login Computer located on the Nurses station (desk).
Students must be supervised by at least one faculty member while running scenarios on the Simulators in the
S
imulation lab.
Students will arrive in full clinical attire as they would in a hospital setting. Students not dressed appropriately
will not be allowed to participate.
Be sure to turn cell phones off or put them on silence. If you must use your cell phone; make use of it outside
of
the Simulation lab and silence it before returning to the lab.
No pictures may be taken in the Simulation Lab except by Simulation Lab personnel.
Personal belongings including student backpacks are not allowed in the SIM Lab. There are lockers available
near
the student rest rooms where belongings can be stored. Students must provide their own lock for thes
e
l
ockers, and the lock and student belongings must be removed at the end of the lab period.
Do not enter the control room unless directed to do so.
Only five (5) students may be in a patient room at any given time.
Gloves must always be worn while in the patient rooms. Students are required to supply their own nitrile
gl
oves (non-latex and powder free).
No Ink pens are permitted in the patient rooms as they damage the simulators.
Do not go through the supply cabinets unless you are participating in an active simulation or you are directed
t
o do so.
Deposit all sharps and biohazards in the appropriate containers provided in the lab.
Do not perform any actions on the simulators that are not directly related to the current, assigned simulation
s
cenario.
Do not remove the patient binders, documents or supplies from the Simulation lab.
No food or drink is permitted in the Simulation lab.
Do not discuss simulations outside of Simulation lab except during debriefing. Remember: “What Happens in
S
im Lab, Stays in Sim Lab”.
Please fill out a simulation experience evaluation form before you leave.
Enjoy Your Simulation Experience!
Use of the Simulation Lab Implies Agreement with the Above Policy
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 96
SAFETY MANUAL
I. SAFETY POLICY
It is the intent of the faculty and administration to provide a safe learning experience for all students and provide
guidelines for the development, implementation, and maintenance of a comprehensive safety program.
The following guidelines are established to provide instructions in maintaining safety for students, staff, and
faculty while using the Skills, Simulation, and Computer Labs. These guidelines shall be adhered to by all
concerned. The Skills Lab Coordinator, faculty, and staff are responsible for enforcing the regulations set forth
in this manual.
II. GENERAL GUIDELINES
A. All faculty, staff, and students must know and practice the safety guidelines at all times while using the
Skills, Simulation, and Computer Labs. Failure to adhere to these general guidelines can result in
disciplinary action. This manual will be available in the labs and students will be instructed to review the
contents upon admission to the clinical component of the curriculum.
B. All labs are locked unless occupied by faculty, staff, and/or students during class or practice. Any break
in security must be reported immediately to Campus Police (916-558-2221), the Nursing Director, and/or
Dean of Health and Education.
C. Students are expected to come to lab prepared by having read the scheduled lab objectives and
assignments prior to the start of the lab period. Students should be knowledgeable of the care, handling,
and proper use of equipment prior to using it in any of the labs.
1. Students will be instructed to practice and return demonstrate only those skills for which they have
had prior instruction and gained familiarity with content and proper procedure. Students are
expected to come to the lab prepared according to the prior instruction on the procedure.
2. Students should at all times practice safe techniques while learning in the Skills, Simulation, and
Computer Labs. Standard Precautions should be followed at all times.
III. LAB GUIDELINES
A. Personal belongings including student backpacks are not allowed in the Skills or SIM Labs. There are
lockers available near the student rest rooms where belongings can be stored. Students must provide
their own lock for these lockers, and the lock and student belongings must be removed at the end of the
lab period.
B. There shall be no eating or drinking in the labs during student use, demonstration, or return
demonstration.
C. Access to the doorway in the labs will be open at all times. Furniture will not be placed to obstruct the
exits.
D. All doors and cabinets shall remain closed when not in actual use.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 97
E. The Skills Lab will not be used as a health center for ill students, staff, or faculty.
F. Children or unauthorized personnel are not allowed in the labs at any time. Injury to unauthorized
personnel in the labs will not be considered the responsibility of American River College, Los Rios
Community College District, or the Health and Education Division.
G. All students shall practice proper hand washing technique while utilizing the Skills Lab.
H. Gloves are worn by students and faculty during any contact with body fluids. Gloves are utilized for
practice and demonstration of skills. Gloves are utilized for personnel using harsh disinfectants to clean
the lab. Departments will provide sterile and non-sterile gloves for faculty. Avoid using petroleum-based
hand creams. These can interfere with glove integrity.
I. The labs are not to be used as social areas.
J. Students are to report any misconduct occurring in the labs and may be held responsible if not reported.
IV. SKILLS LAB SAFETY
A. Sharps Guidelines
1. Needles provided for practice of injections are used in the Skills Lab and ONLY when faculty are
present for assistance.
2. Student must demonstrate safety precautions while utilizing needles during practice as instructed
in class. Any irresponsible use of needles will result in disciplinary action.
3. Students are to practice injections ONLY on the manikins provided in the Skills Lab.
4. Students are never to recap dirty needles and must discard used needles in the sharps disposal
containers provided in the Skills Lab. Needles and other sharp objects must not be discarded in
the trash or left out openly in the Skills Lab at any time.
B. Electrical Safety
1. Wet materials may not be used around electrical outlets or equipment.
2. Faculty and students are responsible for reporting to the appropriate staff any frayed electrical
cords, cracked plugs, missing outlet covers, etc., as well as any problems encountered while using
electrical equipment.
3. No electrical cords will be left in the pathway of walking traffic. Extension cords will be properly
taped to the floor if used over a walkway.
4. Electric beds in the Skills and Simulation Labs will be inspected as needed for repairs.
5. Electric beds shall be maintained in the lowest position.
6. Only three-prong plugs that contain a ground wire should be used to power equipment in the Skills
and Simulation Labs.
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C. Physical Safety
1. Students will be observed to use good body mechanics when demonstrating moving, lifting, and
transferring skills.
2. Students should use caution when practicing lifting skills and should not lift another student who is
too heavy without assistance.
3. Students practicing lifting techniques will not perform these procedures in a foolish or unsafe
manner. Irresponsible behavior will result in the dismissal from the lab.
4. Equipment needed for body mechanics practice (beds, wheelchairs, gurneys, etc.) will be kept in
good working condition. Any broken part will be reported immediately to the Skills Lab Coordinator.
5. The wheels of all equipment (wheelchairs, gurneys, and beds) are to be locked during practice
and return demonstration.
D. Standard Precautions
1. All blood and body fluids should be treated as if they are infectious.
2. Students involved in any situation involving blood or other potentially infected materials must make
sure to follow all precautions to avoid getting another person’s blood or body fluids on their skin.
V. REPORTING OF AN INJURY
A. Any incident occurring in the Skills, Computer, or Simulation Labs during school hours must be reported
to the faculty, Instructional Assistant, (if appropriate), and Nursing Director immediately.
B. An incident report must be filled out for the injury. The report must be signed by the faculty member and
the student involved as soon as possible after the incident. Incident forms are available in the Health and
Education Division Office.
C. Protocol for a physical injury/occupational exposure:
1. Report the incident to faculty, lab IA, and Nursing Director.
2. A faculty member will assess the student/staff and administer first aid as needed.
3. Contact College Nurse or Campus Police if necessary.
4. The faculty/staff/student will be assisted to the Student Health Center, appropriate agency, or
personal physician depending upon the nature of the injury. Campus Police may be called to assist
in transporting a student to a healthcare facility or call 911 depending on the severity of the injury.
AMERICAN RIVER COLLEGE – NURSING STUDENT HANDBOOK – REV. AUGUST 2022 99
VI. CLEANING OF LABORATORY AND EQUIPMENT
A. The Skills Lab IA will be responsible for the disinfection and maintenance of equipment, and monitoring
of the lab. Students and faculty are responsible for the cleanliness of the lab during and after use.
B. Floors, counters, and furniture will be cleaned by appropriate personnel. Equipment located in the Skills
Lab will be cleaned with the appropriate cleaning agent.
C. Bed linens will be changed on a regular basis and when soiled or after extensive use.
VII. HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL
Potential infectious wastes are collected, contained, stored, and disposed of according to the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.
A. Batteries used in Skills Lab equipment will be disposed of through the Hazardous Waste Office.
B. Biohazard contaminated supplies used during competency labs are collected and stored in designated
area of the Skills Lab. All biohazard waste will be picked up by a designated transporter.
C. Biohazard contaminated supplies used during community promotion activities are collected in biohazard-
labeled containers and transported back to the campus Skills Lab for disposal.
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ACCOUNTABILITY FORM
A
CCOUNTABILITY
Accountability is a key word in the discipline and profession of nursing. The materials in the ARC Student
Nurse Handbook contain the philosophy, policies, procedures, and general information which will facilitate
your success in the program. Students are expected to be accountable and responsible for understand the
content of this handbook and all course materials. Please review the content in your handbook and all course
materials. Faculty are available to clarify any questions.
Revision Policy
The faculty reserves the privilege of revising the policies and procedures found in this handbook and individual
course materials at any time deemed advisable. Any revisions will be made in writing and effective as of the
date on the revision. They will be distributed to you so that you may update your handbook and/or course
materials. You will then be responsible for adding, changing or replacing pages of the handbook and/or course
materials as directed by the faculty.
Complete the form below, detach, and submit to your course faculty on the first day of each semester or as
otherwise instructed.
(DETACH HERE AND RETAIN ABOVE FOR YOUR RECORDS)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
NURSING PROGRAM ACCOUNTABILITY
Student's Name (Print Clearly)
I, the undersigned, have read and understand the information, policies, and procedures, in the ARC Student
Nurse Handbook and all course materials. I agree to abide by these guidelines and the grading system.
Furthermore, I authorize the College to provide information about me which is necessary for my participation
in the program including information identified in this Student Handbook and course materials to the clinical
site.
Student's Signature Date
Circle Semester (one): 1 2 3 4
