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COLLEGE OF NURSING
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Fall 2012
BSN STUDENT HANDBOOK
The purpose of this handbook is to supplement other publications
of Grand Canyon University (e.g. Academic Catalog, University
Policy Handbook, Classroom Policies, and Program of Study) and
to assist students in becoming acquainted with the policies and
procedures of the College of Nursing. It is the responsibility of
each student to be familiar with the content of this handbook and
to follow the policies as written here and in the other GCU
documents listed above.
Complete the information below and submit the bottom of this page to your nursing faculty immediately
upon receiving this handbook. Faculty to submit to CON Program Manager, to be placed in student file.

Acknowledgement of receipt of BSN Student Handbook:
I understand that I am responsible for the content and the policies as written here and in
the other GCU documents listed above.
Years listed on front cover:
Signature:
Printed name:
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Date:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
II.
Message from Dean of Nursing .............................................................................. 1
Accreditation
a. Grand Canyon University ............................................................................... 2
b. College of Nursing ........................................................................................ 2
III. About the College of Nursing
a. Description ..................................................................................................... 3
b. Mission .......................................................................................................... 3
c. Features ........................................................................................................ 3
d. Philosophy ..................................................................................................... 4
IV. BSN Pre-licensure Program
a. 5 x 5 Program Model ...................................................................................... 6
b. Baccalaureate Conceptual Model .................................................................. 8
c. Essential Functions for BSN Nursing Students .............................................. 9
d. Admission Requirements ............................................................................. 10
e. Health and Immunization Requirements for Pre-licensure BSN ................... 11
f. Policy for Student Drug, Nicotine, & Alcohol Screening ................................ 14
V.
Academics
a. Retention & Progression .............................................................................. 17
b. Mandatory Advisement ................................................................................ 17
c. Academic Probation ..................................................................................... 17
d. Academic Compliance ................................................................................. 17
e. Program Withdrawal .................................................................................... 18
f. Administrative Withdrawal ............................................................................ 18
g. Course Completion ...................................................................................... 18
h. Total Testing exams..................................................................................... 19
i. Math Requirements...................................................................................... 20
j. No Rounding Policy ..................................................................................... 20
k. CON Grading Scale ..................................................................................... 20
l. Testing Policy .............................................................................................. 20
m. Professional Appearance for Formal Presentations ..................................... 21
n. Originality Check Requirements – Turnitin.com ........................................... 22
VI. Classroom and Clinical Attendance and Participation ........................................... 23
VII. Clinical Guidelines
a. Clinical Probation ......................................................................................... 24
b. HIPAA Guidelines ........................................................................................ 24
c. Safety Guidelines for Pre-Licensure BSN Program ...................................... 25
d. Student Uniform Attire .................................................................................. 28
e. Medication Administration Policy.................................................................. 29
VIII. Re-Entry to Nursing Major Courses ...................................................................... 30
IX. Completing the BSN pre-licensure program
a. Licensure Examination ................................................................................ 33
b. Graduation Requirements for the Pre-Licensure
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree........................................................ 33
c. Professional Nurse Qualifications ................................................................ 33
X. College & Professional Nursing organizations
a. Student Nurses Association ......................................................................... 34
b. Nurses Christian Fellowship ......................................................................... 34
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XI.
c. Student Advisory Board ............................................................................... 34
d. Sigma Theta Tau ......................................................................................... 34
Miscellaneous Nursing Costs and Fees
a. Textbooks .................................................................................................... 36
b. Fees applied to nursing courses (lab, testing, etc.) ...................................... 37
c. Student Uniform, Equipment ........................................................................ 37
d. Drug screen
Addendum – New Mexico Campus
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Message from the Dean of Nursing
Dear Nursing Students,
Welcome to Grand Canyon University! The College of Nursing has
served Arizona since 1982 and over the past few years has expanded
many of its programs into the online format.
GCU offers the pre-licensure nursing program on its main campus in Phoenix, and at
four additional sites in Arizona: St Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix,
Scottsdale Health Care in Scottsdale, A.T. Still University in Mesa, and on the campus
of Tucson Medical Center (TMC) in Tucson. We also offer the program in Albuquerque,
New Mexico. Our pre-licensure students continue to excel on the national licensing
exams and consistently score at or above the state and national level.
Another popular program is designed to help nurses with their Associate degree or
Diploma in Nursing to obtain a BSN. For students with an AAS or ADN, GCU will
accept up to 84 transfer credits. RNs with a Diploma degree are awarded 60 credits
that are applied toward their BSN. The BSN program of study is 36 credits and can be
finished in four semesters. This program is offered fully online and also in cohorts
offered at hospitals in selected communities.
For RNs who have a baccalaureate degree in another field than nursing, we offer a
bridge course to get the BSN and then move quickly into the Masters programs.
Finally, GCU offers a Master of Science in Nursing program in different tracks: Family
Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP), Nursing Leadership in
the Health Care System, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Education, Health Care
Informatics, Public Health, and Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in
Nursing: Nurse Leadership.
Our goal at GCU is to provide you with a solid nursing education offered within the
tenants of our Christian heritage. We focus on the body-mind-spirit in health and
healing. Students are challenged to integrate spiritual principles into practice when
caring for patients, families, and communities. This emphasis is what we believe sets
us apart from other schools. Our graduates often share how they have made a
difference in a person’s life because they tapped into their spiritual needs.
Again, I welcome you to GCU and to the College of Nursing. I know your journey will be
educationally challenging and professionally rewarding!
Anne M. McNamara Ph.D., R.N.
Dean and Professor of Nursing
College of Nursing
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Accreditation
Grand Canyon University Accreditation
Grand Canyon University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (member of North
Central Association of Colleges and Schools). For further information on accreditation, contact:
The Higher Learning Commission
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
(312) 263-0456 (800) 621-7440
http://www.ncahlc.org/
College of Nursing Accreditation and Approval
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, One Dupont Circle NW, Suite 530,
Washington, DC 20036, (202) 887-6791 accredits the University for the Bachelor of Science in
Nursing degree and Master of Science in Nursing degree. The Arizona State Board of Nursing
approves the University for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and Master of Science in
Nursing degree. The New Mexico State Board of Nursing approves the University for the
Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
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About the College of Nursing
College of Nursing Description
A quarter of a century after the College of Nursing was founded; the college continues to
educate nurses through rigorous academic and clinical preparation in a tradition of valuesbased Christian education. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is offered through
three programs: pre-licensure (traditional and fast track) and degree completion for already
licensed and registered nurses. The pre-licensure curriculum is designed to help students
assess the individual, the family and communities; utilize functional health patterns within a
variety of clinical settings; formulate nursing diagnoses; plan and evaluate nursing interventions;
and function as professionals within the health care team. The fast-track BSN program allows
students who have fulfilled all prerequisites and co-requisites to complete a degree in
approximately 20 months. Building on the baccalaureate degree, the College offers a bridge
degree for already licensed and registered nurses (RN-MSN) as well as the Master of Science
in Nursing (MSN) featuring concentrations and dual major: Family Nurse Practitioner, Acute
Care Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Leadership in the Health Care System, Clinical Nurse
Specialist, Nursing Education, Health Care Informatics, Public Health, and Master of Business
Administration/Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Leadership.
College of Nursing Mission
The mission of the College of Nursing is to provide an academically challenging professional
nursing education based on a liberal arts foundation to students from diverse backgrounds
within an environment of Christian values and with a commitment to the enhancement of health
and wellness in society.
College of Nursing Features
The College of Nursing (CON) offers both quality undergraduate and graduate degree programs
that meet specific students’ career and academic needs. The College of Nursing faculty hold a
master’s or doctoral degree. Recognition of the spiritual needs of all persons is an integral part
of caring for one’s self and others. The spiritual dimension is integrated into each nursing course
throughout the undergraduate and graduate curriculum. Pre-licensure students begin their
supervised clinical experiences during the first semester of the nursing curriculum. Students
spend up to 18 hours per week in an assigned clinical practice area learning to apply theory in
direct patient care situations. Pre-licensure students complete a practicum in nursing as their
last course in the curriculum. This course is designed to assist students in role transition and in
gaining confidence in their practice. Graduates of the College of Nursing have a record of
success on the National Council Licensure Examination – RN. Development of a resume and
interview skills are part of the senior studies. In today’s rapidly changing health care
environment, the student will value the opportunity to explore the trends in an individual
capstone project.
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College of Nursing Philosophy
In concert with the mission of the University, the College of Nursing faculty affirms belief in
educating nurses within a dedicated and supportive community of Christian values. The nursing
programs prepare graduates to provide excellent, holistic care while encouraging a passion for
achievement, a lifelong curiosity for knowledge, and pursuit of advanced professional degrees.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials of Baccalaureate
Education for Professional Nursing Practice guides the curriculum for the baccalaureate
program. The AACN The Essentials of Master’s Education for Advanced Nursing Practice,
Advanced Nursing Practice: Curriculum Guidelines and Program Standards for Nurse
Practitioner Education, National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) and
AACN Nursing Practitioner Primary Care Competencies in Specialty Areas, NONPF Domains
and Competencies of Nurse Practitioner Practice, NACNS Statement on Clinical Nurse
Specialist Practice and Education, and the National League for Nursing Competencies for Nurse
Educators provide structure for the curriculum content of the graduate-level programs.
The College of Nursing curriculum is designed to facilitate the students’ abilities to creatively
respond to continuously changing health care systems throughout the world. Educational
experiences are planned to meet the needs of and to empower both students and clients.
Professionalism, ethical decision making, accountability, critical thinking, and effective
communication are emphasized. This is achieved through the application of liberal arts
constructs, science, health and nursing theories, and the values of the Christian faith within the
scope of nursing knowledge and evidence-based practice. Nursing practice promotes human
dignity through compassionate caring for all human beings, without consideration of their
gender, age, color, creed, lifestyle, cultural background, and other visible or invisible boundaries
between students, faculty, and clients.
The faculty of the College of Nursing is accountable for the quality of the educational programs
and for the promotion of safe and effective nursing through teaching, service, and collaboration
with other professionals and consumers of care. The following statements reflect the
philosophical beliefs of the faculty in relation to the concepts of health, environment, person,
and nursing.

HEALTH - Health is the central focus of nursing. Health is a dynamic aspect of being which
incorporates physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and social dimensions.

ENVIRONMENT - All humans interact with the physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and
social environments in which they work, play, and live. The nursing role is to help provide
healthy and safe environments so that persons may live in optimal health.

PERSON - We believe that all people are accepted and loved unconditionally, as children of
God. Clients are considered to be individuals, families, groups, communities, and
populations. Human diversity is cherished. Spirituality is conceived as vertical and horizontal
relationships with God and with humanity. These relationships give hope and meaning in life
now and in the future.
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
NURSING - Baccalaureate nursing practice incorporates the roles of assessing, critical
thinking, communicating, providing care, teaching, and leading. The caring professional
approach includes the values of autonomy, altruism, human dignity, integrity and social
justice with unconditional regard for all people. Nursing practice includes health promotion,
disease prevention, early detection of health deviations, prompt and adequate treatment of
the human response to acute and chronic illness, and compassionate care for those
experiencing death.

Masters nursing practice expands upon baccalaureate nursing concepts to include primary
care practice knowledge and advanced leadership with a focus on research and quality
assurance, spirituality, diversity, critical thinking, caring, and learning. The advanced
professional nursing role relies on best practices and evidence-based research with a focus
on evaluation of health outcomes and process.

NURSING EDUCATION is theory driven. Theories are derived from the humanities,
sciences, and biblical concepts. Nursing knowledge, theory, research, and health promotion
are influenced by spiritual perspectives, ethical, legal, political, historical, and social
influences. The faculty values excellence in teaching with an individual focus on the learner.
Teaching includes a variety of methods, learning modalities, and practice situations. Faculty
provides opportunities for students to give comprehensive care to diverse client populations.

LEARNING environment is created and arranged to meet individual learning outcomes that
are consistent with CON program outcomes. CON supports life-long learning endeavors and
fosters an appreciation of diversity among traditional and non-traditional learners. Students
are educated to provide, direct and evaluate client-centered care while focusing on the
person as an integrated whole.
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Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure Program
5 x 5 Program Model
Program Description
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure degree prepares students to function
as professionals within the health care team by providing holistic, safe, and quality care for
individuals, families, and communities in diverse settings. The program includes an emphasis
on spirituality, communication, health promotion, and disease prevention throughout the
lifespan.
Professional Role
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure
program will be able to incorporate professional values to advance the nursing profession
through leadership skills, political involvement, and life-long learning.
 Exemplify professionalism in diverse health care settings.
 Manage patient care within the changing environment of the health care system.
 Exercise professional nursing leadership and management roles in the promotion of
patient safety and quality care.
 Participate in health care policy development to influence nursing practice and health
care.
 Advocate for autonomy and social justice for individuals and diverse populations.
Theoretical Foundation
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure
program will have acquired a body of nursing knowledge built on a theoretical foundation of
liberal arts, science, and nursing concepts that will guide professional practice.
 Incorporate liberal arts and science studies into nursing knowledge.
 Comprehend nursing concepts and health theories.
 Understand and value the processes of critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and decision
making.
Nursing Practice
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure
program will be able to utilize the nursing process to provide safe quality care based on best
nursing practices.
 Utilize the nursing process to provide safe and effective care for patients across the
health-illness continuum: promoting, maintaining, and restoring health; preventing
disease; and facilitating a peaceful death.
 Implement patient care decisions based on evidence-based practice.
 Provide individualized education to diverse patient populations in a variety of health care
settings.
 Demonstrate professional standards of practice.
Communication/Informatics
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure
program will be able to manage information and technology to provide safe quality care in a
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variety of settings. In addition, graduates will be able to communicate therapeutically and
professionally to produce positive working relationships with patients and health care team
members.
 Utilize patient care technology and information management systems.
 Communicate therapeutically with patients.
 Professionally communicate and collaborate with the interdisciplinary health care teams
to provide safe and effective care.
Holistic Patient Care
Graduates of Grand Canyon University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure
program will be able to provide holistic individualized care that is sensitive to cultural and
spiritual aspects of the human experience.
 Understand the human experience across the health-illness continuum.
 Assess for the spiritual needs and provide appropriate interventions for individuals,
families, and groups.
 Provide culturally sensitive care.
 Preserve the integrity and human dignity in the care of all patients.
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Essential Functions for Nursing Students
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
CATEGORIES
A nursing student must be able to:
Motor/physical strength
Perceptual/sensory
Math
Behavioral/Interpersonal
(relationships)/emotional stability
Possess the physical strength and mobility to safely carry out
nursing procedures and provide routine and emergency care
and treatment to patients of all ages in all assigned health care
settings.
Use their senses to make accurate clinical assessments and
judgments.
Accurately calculate medication/solution dosages and any
needed information specific to patient care.
Develop mature, sensitive and effective therapeutic
relationships with individuals, families and groups of various
social, emotional, cultural and intellectual backgrounds
Adhere to GCU policies, procedures and requirements as
described in the college catalog, student handbook, and course
syllabi.
Communication
Demonstrate ethical behavior, including adherence to
professional nursing and student university honor codes.
Communicate effectively and accurately in English using
speech, reading, writing, language skills, and computer literacy.
Punctuality/work habits
Use of appropriate nonverbal communication is also essential.
Collect, analyze, prioritize, integrate, and generalize
information and knowledge to make sound clinical judgments
and decisions to promote positive patient outcomes.
Adhere to classroom and clinical schedules.
General Health
Complete classroom and clinical assignments and submit
assignments in a timely manner.
Work in an environment that puts one at risk for infection.
Problem solving/Critical thinking
Meet all health and safety requirements to perform patient care
in assigned clinical facilities.
Approved September 29, 2011
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Requirements for Admission (Pre-licensure BSN)
In addition to the general Undergraduate Admission Requirements listed in the Admission
Policies and Application Procedures section, the following admission requirements must be met:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Applications for Fall admission are considered the previous Spring semester.
Applications for Spring admission are reviewed during the previous Fall semester.
Applications for Summer admission are reviewed during the previous Spring semester.
Freshman students, who declare their intent of nursing as a major, must maintain a
cumulative GPA of 3.0, successfully complete all prerequisite course work in order to
progress to the nursing courses, and submit a letter of intent for the nursing major.
Acceptance into the College is determined by the College of Nursing criteria and
availability of clinical spaces.
Transfer students may apply to the College of Nursing during the semester in which all
prerequisite course work will be completed (semester prior to nursing coursework).
Students must maintain a cumulative prerequisite GPA of 3.0.
Fast-track students must have all pre-requisites and co-requisites completed prior to
beginning the fast-track program.
A maximum of two different prerequisite courses may be repeated only once to earn a
grade of C or above.
TEAS Test: Minimum score 70 (math and reading). Students can take the TEAS test up
to four times. (Initial test, then repeat three times.)
Background check (no felonies, misdemeanors will be subject to review by the college).
Application for a Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card for the state in which student will
be attending must be in progress or completed.
Students who are accepted and begin the program will be required to take a Drug,
Nicotine & Alcohol Screening (scheduled by the CON). Certain clinical facilities include
nicotine as part of their screening and will not allow students to rotate at their facility who
test positive from nicotine or its byproduct, cotonine.
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Health and Immunization Requirements for Pre-Licensure BSN Students
Nursing students are expected to take measures to maintain their personal health so as not to
jeopardize themselves or any patient with which they come in contact. Therefore, students who
are accepted into the nursing program must show evidence of the College of Nursing required
immunizations and diagnostic procedures as required by the clinical agencies utilized. At
anytime, a student may be required to receive a medical examination if deemed necessary by
the faculty for the wellbeing of the student and/or the patients/clients.
Students are responsible for updating CPR, TB screening, and Tetanus booster when needed.
As nursing students are in contact with clients in a variety of health situations, it is imperative
that students maintain protection against communicable illnesses. In addition, students must
meet agency health requirements to enter clinical course work. Students will not be allowed to
participate in clinical experiences unless all agency requirements are current. Missing clinical
may jeopardize a student being successful in the program.
The information below indicate the specific health requirements for undergraduate admission
and continuing enrollment. Guidelines are based on the Center for Disease Control guidelines,
Morbidity Mortality Weekly Report.
Tuberculosis
(TB)
For continued
enrollment:
Required
annually.
CPR card
For continued
enrollment:
Re-certification
required prior to
expiration date.
Initially, two-step testing will be required for all incoming students. Two-step
testing is useful for the initial skin testing of adults who are going to be
retested periodically, such as health care workers or nursing home residents.
This two-step approach can reduce the likelihood that a boosted reaction to
a subsequent TST will be misinterpreted as a recent infection. Two-step
testing is a strategy used in TB screening programs to distinguish a boosted
reaction (caused by TB infection that occurred many years before the skin
test) from a reaction caused by recent infection.
If a person has a negative reaction to an initial skin test, a second test is
given 1 to 3 weeks later; a positive reaction to the second test probably
represents a boosted reaction, not recent infection.
An exemption from two-step testing may be granted by the CON if the
student submits documentation showing a history of annual TB testing
For positive skin tests, a health department clearance is required. (Contact
health department.) Recent (within past 2 years) clear chest X-ray, along
with a completed TB screening form from within the past year. Evaluation
will be made on an individual basis.
CPR certification for the Professional Rescuer or Healthcare Provider is
required. Information as to the availability of courses may be obtained by
calling either the American Heart Association or American Red Cross, or
checking online. (Classes are sometimes called “BLS/AED for Professional
Rescuer” or “BLS/AED for Healthcare Provider” or “Healthcare Pro”)
Other CPR courses will NOT fulfill this requirement. Online-only courses are
not acceptable.
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TetanusDiphtheria (TD)
For continued
enrollment:
Required 10
years from date
of last vaccine.
Influenza (Flu)
For continued
enrollment:
Required
annually.
Documentation of Tetanus or Tetanus-Diphtheria vaccination administered
within the past 10 years. (Tdap vaccines are accepted.)
DPS
Fingerprint
Clearance
Card
For continued
enrollment:
Unexpired card
required.
Arizona: The FP Clearance card must be submitted prior to beginning the
program for all new students. This is not a copy of your actual fingerprints.
See the Department of Public Safety for forms &/or questions:
Health care
Provider’s
Report &
Physical Exam
Hepatitis B
A physician or other health care provider completes this form following a
physical exam of the student. If the physical performed within the last six
months, the form may be completed based off that exam. (Form enclosed.)
MMR:
Measles
(Rubeola),
Mumps,
Rubella
Varicella
(Chicken Pox)
Influenza vaccine is strongly recommended annually. A waiver form is
required if vaccine not received in the past year or if declined. (Form
enclosed - Waiver required once, or updated vaccine status is required
annually.)
http://www.azdps.gov/Services/Fingerprint/
When requesting a fingerprint clearance card, please ask for a "Healthcare
Student" card (which encompasses criminal and sex offender checks
performed at the federal and state levels). In other words, per the Fingerprint
Clearance Card application, students are to indicate that they are Health
Sciences Students and Clinical Assistants (ARS 15-1881). When completing
the Fingerprint Clearance Card application, please list Grand Canyon
University (and its address) as the sponsoring agency.
Hepatitis B vaccine (3 doses) is strongly recommended. A waiver is required
if vaccine not administered. (Form enclosed.)
Students must show
Proof of immunity (Lab evidence indicating positive MMR titers)
Because of recent changes in policies, documentation of two or more MMR
vaccines is not sufficient.
If not immune (negative titer results), then student must be vaccinated and
be re-tested at least 30 days after receiving the vaccination. If, after the
second blood test, the student is still showing “negative” or “non-reactive” for
immunity, no further vaccines/titer requests will be required.
Students must show
Proof of immunity (Lab evidence indicating positive varicella titers)
Because of recent changes in policies, documentation of history of chicken
pox or varicella vaccinations are not sufficient.
If not immune (negative titer results), then student must be vaccinated and
be re-tested at least 30 days after receiving the vaccination. If, after the
second blood test, the student is still showing “negative” or “non-reactive” for
immunity, no further vaccines/titer requests will be required.
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Health History
form
Health
Insurance
Background
check
Drug Screen
HIPPA form
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Student completes this form.
Verification of the student’s current health insurance coverage. (e.g., Copy
of insurance card.) This information will be required at the start of each
semester you are enrolled. Please note that this is only for your nursing file,
and is NOT shared with other departments. Contact your Enrollment and/or
Finance Counselor (FC) to learn about GCU insurance policies and costs, if
you already have alternate health insurance coverage or if you are enrolling
in GCU’s student coverage. Failure to opt out of the GCU student insurance
may result in automatic enrollment in GCU’s student insurance coverage and
charges to your account.
Must be completed prior to acceptance to the program. No felonies,
misdemeanors will be subject to review by the college.
A negative drug screen is required prior to beginning first clinical experience.
This will be scheduled by the College of Nursing during the first eight weeks
of the semester. The student pays the cost of the drug screen (approximately
$50).
Refer to the detailed drug screen policy below.
This will be distributed by Level I nursing instructor, to be completed prior to
beginning clinical experience.
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Policy for Student Drug, Nicotine & Alcohol Screening
The practice of professional nursing demands that the clinician be free from the influence of any
substance that would impair judgment and thinking ability. As a result, health care agencies are
requiring new employees to undergo drug screening. Nursing students must also be free from
impairing substances. Health care agencies and CON require drug screening of nursing
students prior to their first clinical experience. In addition, CON students are subject to
screening if either the faculty or preceptor suspects that the student is impaired at any time on
campus, or during any health care experience or any other university or work related activity.
Any student whose test is deemed positive may not be able to enroll or continue in a nursing
course for a minimum period of one year.
This policy is designed to identify the procedures to be followed for both types of testing as well
as to outline the appeal and readmission to the program.
Initial Random Drug Screening
1. First level and new transfer students will be randomly given a drug screen authorization
form and a 24 hour time frame to complete a urine drug screen at one of the selected
laboratory location options provided. Students may also be asked to submit to an
immediate oral drug and alcohol screening test conducted by a College of Nursing
faculty member.
2. Students will be required to show picture identification upon arrival. A driver’s license or
passport are acceptable forms of identification.
3. The cost for all screening and medical review (if deemed necessary) is the students’
responsibility.
4. A screen with questionable results will be sent by the lab for a medical review. Costs for
review and retest will be the responsibility of the student.
5. A negative report is necessary to continue in the program of study in the College of
Nursing.
6. This screen need not be repeated as long as the student maintains continuous
enrollment. Continuous enrollment is defined as enrollment in nursing classes during all
consecutive semesters until graduation.
7. Students may be re-tested for cause or reasonable suspicion.
For Cause or Reasonable Suspicion Drug, Nicotine & Alcohol Screening
The College of Nursing may ask a student to submit to a drug and alcohol screening at any time
faculty members feel that the student may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This
includes but is not limited to the following circumstances: evidence of drugs or alcohol on or
about the student’s person or in the student’s possession, unusual conduct on the student’s part
that suggests possible use or influence of drugs or alcohol, negative performance patterns, or
excessive and unexplained absenteeism or tardiness.
1. Students will be asked to submit to an immediate oral drug and alcohol screening test
conducted by a College of Nursing faculty member.
2. Students may also be given a drug screen authorization form and asked to immediately
complete a urine drug screen at one the selected laboratory location options provided.
3. Students will be required to show picture identification upon arrival. A driver’s license or
passport are acceptable forms of identification.
4. The costs for all screening and medical review (if deemed necessary) are the students’
responsibility.
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5. A screen with questionable results will be sent by the lab for a medical review. Costs for
review and retest will be the responsibility of the student.
6. A negative report is necessary to continue in the program of study in the College of
Nursing.
7. Students who are being screened for cause will be transported to the screening facility
by a GCU established company. Faculty should contact the GCU Travel Department at
602.388.3850
Follow-up Action: Positive Screen (For Cause or Initial Drug Screen)
1. Positive drug screens (including medical review) may result in withdrawal from the
nursing program for a minimum of 12 months. After this 12-month period, the student
may apply for re-admission under general guidelines stated in the Academic Policy
Handbook, provided there is submission of evidence of satisfactory participation in a
rehabilitation program for alcohol/substance abuse.
2. Sources of evidence include:
a. Documentation of completed program of rehabilitation
b. Acknowledgement of continuance in a twelve step or after-care program.
c. Letter from therapist or program director stating the student is deemed able to
function safely in a clinical facility. The student must have a negative screen prior to
being readmitted to the nursing program. The screen will be done at the direction of
CON and may be periodic while the student is in a CON program. The student is
responsible for all costs of screening.
3. The decision to readmit will be made by the CON faculty after review of submitted
materials. As with other applications for readmission, space availability may be a
determining factor for that particular semester.
4. A report will be filed with the Arizona and/or New MexicoState Board of Nursing upon
withdrawal from the program consistent with the rules and regulations of the State Board
of Nursing.
5. Any student who screens positive after one readmission may be permanently dismissed
from the nursing program.
Follow-up Action:-Cause Negative Screen
1. Students whose drug screens are negative will meet with the Associate Dean or Site
Director to discuss the perceptions of impaired behavior and the implications and steps
to avoid similar situations in the future.
2. A medical referral for documentation of any medical condition or treatment may be
requested.
3. Students will not be counted as absent from clinical during this evaluation process.
However, students will be expected to meet the clinical objectives.
4. A reasonable suspicion/cause drug screen that is positive; however, is deemed negative
by a medical review officer will follow these guidelines:
a. The student will meet with the Associate Dean or Site Director.
b. The student may be required to undergo, at the student’s expense, an evaluation for
drug use/prescription drug use/impairment by a neuropsychiatrist recommended by
the State Board of Nursing.
c. The student will follow other recommendations deemed necessary by the Associate
Dean or Site Director.
d. The student will be required to provide a negative drug screen prior to returning to
clinical and be subject to periodic drug screens at the student’s expense.
e. More than one incident of a reasonable suspicion/cause drug screen that is positive;
however, deemed negative by a medical review officer may result in withdrawal from
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the nursing program for a minimum of 12 months. In this case the student will follow
the positive drug screening guidelines.
Students who Refuse Drug Screening
Students who refuse to participate in screening will be required to leave the clinical area and
make an appointment with the Dean of Nursing or his/her designee. Faculty will arrange
transportation home for the student by contacting the Travel Department at 602-388-3850. The
student will be transported home and remain out of the clinical area until an investigation has
been done and a recommendation has been made by the Dean, Associate Dean, or designee.
Students who refuse screening may be subject to dismissal from the College of Nursing. The
student who refuses to participate in the aforementioned rehabilitation program will not be
allowed into clinical courses; therefore he/she cannot complete the nursing program.
Substances Included in Screen:
Amphetamines,Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, Cannabinoids, Cocaine metabolite, Cotonine
(tobacco/nicotine), Fentanyl, Meperidine, Methadone, Opiates, Oxycodone, Phencyclidine,
Propoxyphene
*Please note certain clinical facilities include nicotine as part of their screening and will not allow
students to rotate at their facility who test positive from nicotine or its byproduct, cotonine.
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Academics
Retention and Progression
Students who have been accepted into the nursing program may remain as nursing students if
they adhere to the following criteria:
1. Maintain continuous registration for nursing courses in the major. Traditional students:
continuous registration is from Fall/Spring only, while fast-track BSN students must also
maintain registration in the summer.
2. Meet the standards of Grand Canyon University as outlined in the Grand Canyon
University Academic Policy Handbook.
3. Pass all portions (test, theory, and clinical) of each nursing course with a 76% or greater
average. Theory grade includes the average of exams and all non-clinical assignments.
Students must attain 76% or greater overall to complete the course successfully.
4. Maintain a 2.7 cumulative GPA on 4.0 scale in all nursing major courses. GPA will be
calculated after the completion of each semester.
5. Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 to graduate.
Mandatory Advisement
Faculty members may request mandatory advisement sessions when students are in clinical or
academic jeopardy, and/or when student behavior appears below professional standards.
Satisfactory academics and/or behavioral changes must be accomplished by the end of the
course in order to progress in the nursing program. It is important to maintain continuous
progress and a sound knowledge base to be successful throughout the program.
Academic Probation
1. A student is placed on academic probation if the student falls below the cumulative GPA
of 2.7 in nursing major courses.
2. The student may be denied continued registration in the nursing program if unable to
raise nursing major cumulative GPA 2.7 during the subsequent semester.
3. The student is removed from academic probation when the GPA is 2.7 or above is
achieved in nursing major courses.
Academic Compliance
Students are responsible for understanding and following all applicable University policies and
procedures. However, in some cases, a student may appeal an academically related University
policy or decision, including tuition, fees or end of course grades. The appeal process is
designed to offer the student the opportunity to be heard. Appeals are reviewed in the order in
which they are received. All aspects of a student’s situation are researched and all
documentation provided is taken into consideration. After all relevant data is gathered, the
appeals are routed to the appropriate determining body for decision. All requests for additional
documentation will be sent to the students GCU email account, as well as other email
addresses on file with the university. Please note if a student is asked to provide documentation,
the appeal is closed until that documentation is received. Students are notified of the appeal
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outcome by official letter from the University, and phone call contact. The letters are sent to the
address on file with the University. If you have been academically suspended from the
University please complete the Request for Reinstatement form. If you are filing an academic
appeal for reasons other than reinstatement, please complete the Academic Appeals Form.
Program Withdrawal
Students electing to withdraw from the nursing program should discuss the situation with their
academic counselor. Course instructors should not advise students on whether or not to
withdraw from a course. To withdraw officially from all courses, a student must secure a
Complete Withdrawal form from the Office of Academic Records, obtain all signatures indicated
on the form, and participate in an exit interview. A student who officially withdraws from all
courses prior to the last day to drop a course, as per the University calendar, receives a grade
of “W.” An unofficial withdrawal results automatically in a grade of “F.” The University does not
automatically withdraw students for non-attendance. A student withdrawing from some, but not
all courses, must do so before the date specified in the Academic Calendar.
Administrative Withdrawal
The University reserves the right to administratively withdraw a student for the following
reasons:
• Students who do not attend any of their registered classes within the first week of the
semester may be administratively withdrawn from all classes, in both the current and
subsequent semesters.
• Students who are brought up with Code of Conduct issues or per College-specific policy.
• Students who have not returned to the University in 24 months and have not provided
any notification of their absence.
• University professors are to provide students with a written attendance policy. If a
student fails to comply with a stated attendance policy, the professor may
administratively withdraw the student from the course. Students are responsible for all
tuition and fees.
Course Completion
Successful completion of nursing courses means that students must:
 Achieve a minimum of 76% average for the theory portion of the course. Theory grade
includes the average of exams and all non-clinical assignments.
 Achieve a minimum of 76% average for the graded clinical portion of the course with
satisfactory clinical performance.
 Achieve a minimum of 76% average for the exam portion of the theory grade.
 All assignments, including pass/fail assignments, must be completed and submitted to
earn course credit.
o Late assignments will be deducted 10% per day with a maximum of 3 days.
o No points will be awarded for any assignment submitted three (3) days passed
the due date, but submission is still required.
 All asterisked skills (found within the Psychomotor Skills Checklist) must be completed
and signed off by a clinical faculty before the end of the course.
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Failure to achieve any of these criteria will result in failure of the course.
Failure to pass ALL of the benchmark assignments as designated in the individual course will
result in failure of the course.
Total Testing Exams
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


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Students are required to complete a minimum of one total testing exam in each of the
five levels of nursing courses.
On the first attempt, two (2) points are awarded for students who achieve a score at or
above the Level 2 proficiency, or as otherwise assigned by the College of Nursing
Faculty.
If the assigned benchmark is not met during the first attempt, recommended remediation
based on areas of weakness is required.
Following remediation, a second attempt to meet the assigned benchmark is required. If
this proficiency is met, 1 point is earned.
If the benchmark is not met on the second attempt, remediation is required and no points
are awarded.
Failure to complete the assigned total testing exams and remediation as needed will
result in a grade of incomplete for the course assigned until materials are completed
(following the Incomplete policy at GCU). Incomplete grades may prevent students
from progressing to the next course if that course is a prerequisite course.
The following information is specific to the course/level:

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NUR 206B: For this course, the total testing exam of Fundamentals is assigned. This
exam has a benchmark of a proficiency level 2. Remediation is as identified by the test
analysis report.
NUR 312: For this course, the total testing exam of Adult Medical-Surgical is assigned.
This exam has a benchmark of 58%. Remediation is as identified by the test analysis
report.
NUR 498B: For this level the RN Comprehensive Predictor Exam is assigned. Students
are required to complete the assigned Predictor Exam in the last semester of the
program. No proficiency levels are used for this exam, instead, the student is required to
meet a 90% probability of passing the NCLEX. If this proficiency is not met, ATIrecommended remediation based on areas of weakness will need to be completed.
Attendance at the mandatory live review course is considered remediation for the first
attempt. The second attempt for the Predictor Exam is scheduled after the review course
is completed. If the student does not meet the probability benchmark on the second
attempt, the student is required to meet with either the course instructor, Associate
Dean, or other designated individual to develop and complete a remediation plan.
Failure to meet with the Associate Dean or site Director and complete the assigned ATI
exam and remediation as needed will result in a grade of incomplete for the course until
materials are completed (following the Incomplete Policy at GCU). Incomplete grades
may prevent students from graduating. The Certificate of Completion will be sent to the
State Board of Nursing when the remediation is completed.
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Math Requirement
A medication math exam, given at the beginning of the semester for levels 2, 3, 4, and 5, and as
assigned after new math content must be passed with a score of 100% prior to administering
medications in the clinical setting.
A retake exam is administered outside of class time for those individuals who fail the exam
 Remediation is required prior to any retakes. Faculty members will conduct the
remediation once contacted by the student.
 Every attempt by faculty and student will be made to complete this competency and
achieve 100% on this exam within the first three weeks of the semester.
 Failure to achieve 100% on the third attempt will result in course failure.
For the Level 1 Medication Math Competency Exam, all Med-Math Requirements apply except:
 The medication math exam will be administered during Level 1 after the Level 1
medication math content has been taught.
 Failure to achieve 100% on the third attempt will result in failure in the course and
student will not progress to the Level 1 clinical course.
No Rounding Policy
The GCU College of Nursing has adopted a No Rounding policy for all courses within the
program. This policy states that all grades will be entered to the hundredth at their face value
and not rounded (i.e., a final grade of 89.99 will be entered on Web Advisor as B and not a B+).
Grading Scale for CON
The following grading scale will apply to all graded work as well as the student’s final grade in
the course.
Letter Grade Point Scale
Letter Grade Point Scale
A
95-100
C+
80-83
A92-94
C
76-79
B+
90-91
D
72-75
B
87-89
F
<72
B84-86
Testing Policy
Test Time
Students are allowed 1.3 min per question and 3 min per short answer question on exams.
Honor Code
All students will sign the following Honor Code Statement each time they take a test, either
electronically or by paper and pencil.
“On my honor, as a Grand Canyon University Student, I have neither given nor received
unauthorized aid on this academic work.”
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The Testing Environment
Examinations will be administered in an environment that is conducive to success and
minimizes the opportunity for academic dishonesty.
1) Students may only have a pencil and piece of blank scratch paper issued by the proctor at
their desk or computer.
2) Everything brought into the room (backpacks, purses, phones, PDAs, hats, snacks, water,
etc.) must be placed at the front of the room at the student’s own risk.
3) All phones must be turned to silent.
4) Students may only use calculators and paper provided by GCU.
5) Faculty will actively monitor all students during examinations.
6) Students will be issued a piece of colored cardstock to use as a cover sheet while taking
paper exams.
7) Talking is not allowed during the exam.
8) Each student’s eyes must be on their own exam at all times.
9) Once the exam has begun students cannot approach faculty to ask questions or seek
clarification about the exam.
10) Students cannot leave the room and return once the exam has begun.
11) Students may only access the test site on the computer while taking an electronic exam.
Students may not minimize the site, exit the site, or use chat during the exam.
12) After completing the examination, students will leave the classroom and not return until
instructed to by faculty once all students have finished the exam.
13) Students are encouraged to be present and well prepared to take all examinations.
Consequences for being absent may include being given a different version of the exam.
Only students with excused absences will be given the opportunity to take a make-up exam.
Students must notify the instructor no less than 30 minutes prior to the start of the exam for
the absence to be considered excused. Students may make up no more than one exam per
course.
14) Students who are observed violating the above criteria will be asked to leave the exam,
given no credit for the exam, and reported to the University Code of Conduct Committee.
Professional Attire for Formal Presentations
Business casual is acceptable which can be interpreted as:
Women: slacks (dress pants), skirts (mid-calf to about two inches above the knee), blouses,
shells, cardigans, blazers or dresses.
Men: dress pants, button down shirts, polo shirts (short sleeved shirts with a collar), blazers.
Do not wear:
 Denim material
 Anything that is see-through, short, tight, or shows too much skin.
 Flip-flops or tennis shoes.
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TURNITIN Originality Check Requirements
Beginning March 1st, 2010, GCU will be using Turnitin originality checking in all classes in order
to preserve academic integrity and to help students build effective citation habits. Faculty will be
able to set up submissions at www.Turnitin.com or through Turnitin dropboxes within the
ANGEL classroom. Students should consult with their individual faculty to determine how they
should submit the required documents to Turnitin, which assignments will require a Turnitin
submission, and the policies surrounding the use of Turnitin. Turnitin will be found in the
“Succeed at GCU” section of the Student Success Center by the start of your next class.
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Classroom and Clinical Attendance and Participation
Classroom attendance of 100% is strongly recommended. Students are responsible for any and
all material covered in class, as well as their assigned readings. Participation in the classroom
and clinical experience is essential to meet the objectives for all clinical nursing major courses.
Clinical attendance is required. If the student is unable to attend a clinical day, the student
should discuss the absence with the clinical faculty. Any missed clinical days must be made up.
Clinical absence may result in clinical probation. Students who are too ill to perform safely in
clinical should contact assigned clinical faculty prior to missing clinical and seek medical
attention as needed.
15) Students are responsible for all materials covered during an absence.
16) Any student who has experienced an Emergency Department visit or hospitalization or an
acute illness, trauma, surgery or pregnancy/delivery will need a health care provider’s
release to return to clinical or class.
a. The student may be asked to provide verification of a visit to the health care system.
b. The release must state the student is physically and mentally/emotionally able to provide
direct patient care activities without restrictions.
c. The release must be signed and dated by the health care provider.
d. The student must present the release to the classroom/clinical faculty prior to returning
to the classroom or clinical site.
17) Students who must miss classroom or clinical due to pregnancy or extended illness may not
be able to complete course objectives. Students must contact the course instructor to
discuss options.
18) The College of Nursing is not obligated to provide makeup clinical opportunities for students
unable to complete clinical during the assigned clinical rotation of the course.
19) Any make-up clinical opportunity will be at the student’s expense and subject to faculty
availability, clinical site availability, and approval of the Associate Dean or designee of the
College of Nursing or designee.
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Clinical Guidelines
Clinical Probation
Clinical probation is the official means of notifying the student of unacceptable behavior or
unsatisfactory clinical performance.
Faculty may remove a student from the clinical area. Clinical probation status is conferred at
the discretion of the lead instructor, clinical instructor, and/or Associate Dean for the
Undergraduate programs for any unsafe or unprofessional behaviors.
The following are examples of behaviors that may lead to clinical probation:
 Causing a client unnecessary suffering or harm
 Unsafe practice in the clinical area
 Insufficient preparation for clinical
 Failure to report abnormal data in a timely manner to the appropriate persons
 Unexcused clinical absences
 Tardiness, failure to notify faculty/staff of tardiness or absences in clinical
 Failure to follow instructor’s guidance
 Conduct inappropriate to the role of student nurse
 Non-adherence to GCU student nursing uniform policy/attire
Clinical Probation Procedure:
 A discussion with lead faculty and letter of probation will be given to the student.
 A copy of the letter will be sent to the Associate Dean and site directorand will be placed
in the student’s file.
 Clinical probation may result in up to a 10% reduction in the clinical grade and may
result in the student being withdrawn from the course.
 Students must successfully complete the syllabus stated objectives at or above 76%
before proceeding to the next nursing course.
HIPAA Guidelines
As health care providers, one of the covered entities, nurses must be knowledgeable about the
various aspects of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
CON offers this guidance below for those persons to ensure compliance with those
requirements and asks that all students sign the HIPAA confidentiality Agreement.
Students are required to do the following:
1. Sign the CON Faculty/Staff/Student Confidentiality Agreement before any involvement in
a clinical agency.
2. Attend CON training or in-classroom clinical instruction on requirements relating to
patient privacy.
3. Know and adhere to a clinical site’s privacy and procedures before undertaking any
activities at the site.
4. Maintain at all times the confidentiality of any patient information, regardless of whether
the identifiers listed in the “Do not” section of these guidelines have been removed.
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5. Promptly report any violation of those procedures, applicable law, or CON’s
confidentiality agreement by a CON student, faculty or staff member to the appropriate
CON clinical instructor or faculty member.
6. Understand that a violation of the clinical site’s policies and procedures, of applicable
law, or CON’s confidentiality agreement will subject the student to disciplinary action.
Students are not to do the following:
1. Discuss, use or disclose any patient information while in the clinical setting unless it is
part of the clinical setting.
2. Remove any record from the clinical site without the prior written authorization of that
site.
3. Disclose any information about a patient during the clinical assignment to anyone other
than the health-care staff of the clinical site.
4. Use patient information in the context of a learning experience, classroom case
presentation, class assignment, or research without attempting to exclude as much of
the following information as possible:
a. Names
b. Geographical subdivisions smaller than a state
c. Dates of birth, admission, discharge, death
d. Telephone and fax numbers
e. E-mail addresses
f. Social security numbers
g. Medical records or account numbers
h. Certificate/license numbers
i. Vehicle or device numbers
j. Web locators/Internet protocols
k. Biometric identifiers
l. Full face identifiers
m. Any other unique identifying number, characteristic, or code
n. All ages over 89
5. Access any patient information unless patient is clinical assignment.
Safety Guidelines for Pre-Licensure Programs
Standard Precautions
Students will adhere to all guidelines for Standard Precautions within the clinical agencies.
Protocol for Puncture Wounds and Exposure to Blood or Bodily Fluids
Incidents involving any type of needle stick or body-fluid exposure must be reported to the
Preceptor/Clinical Faculty/Facility immediately! The clinical faculty will then notify the course
faculty and site Director.
All faculty and students should observe the protocol for safe needle usage when practicing or
performing parental injections, IV starts, blood draws, or using syringes, or performing any
invasive procedure as part of a skills check off, or in a clinical setting. The faculty/student should
follow the protocol for needle usage at the agency where clinicals are being held.
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Uncontaminated Needle Stick or Intact Skin Exposure
If a student accidentally punctures him/herself with an uncontaminated needle or is exposed to
blood or bodily fluid that is an intact skin exposure should:
1. Wash the area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water
2. Follow-up with the Cooke Health and Wellness Center or own Primary Care Provider or
other facilities listed on the resource page who will make a determination of Tetanus
immunization status and give appropriate prophylaxis or referral for appropriate
prophylaxis.
3. Complete a student puncture wound incident report (available from the CON) to be filled
out by the student and the supervising faculty or instructor who was present during
incident. A copy of this report will be given to the Site Director, Associate Dean and
placed in the student’s file.
4. Counseling referral and other referrals can be arranged through the health center.
5. If student is outside Maricopa County, please contact Site Director for specific
information related to resources for medical treatment.
Contaminated Needle Stick or Non-intact skin or mucous membrane Exposure
If the exposure is via a contaminated needle or if a bodily fluid exposure to non-intact skin, or to
mucous membranes the student should continue with the following:
1. Wash the skin area immediately with soap and water If exposure is to mucous
membranes flush area with water immediately
2. Report the incident to your clinical preceptor/faculty/supervisor.
3. Immediately seek medical attention. If in an acute care setting, follow agency guidelines.
This may include reporting to either Occupational Health or the agency Emergency
Department.
4. If student is in the community setting and an agency Occupational Health Center or
Emergency Department are not available, the student may report to the Cooke Health
Center on GCU Main Campus if it is between the hours of 8-5, Monday-Friday. The
Cooke Health Center’s number is 602.639.6215.
5. In the event that this incident occurs, in the community setting, when the Cooke Health
Center is not open, GCU recommends that you seek immediate treatment at an Urgent
Care or Physician’s Office equipped to treat contaminated needle stick injuries. Please
see the resource page for possible locations. If follow up visits are required you may
schedule them at the Cooke Health Center on GCU Main Campus. Counseling referral
and other referrals can be arranged through the health center.
6. If student is outside of Maricopa County, please contact Site Director for specific
information related to resources for medical treatment.
7. Student puncture wound incident report (available from the CON) will be filled out by the
student and the faculty or instructor who was present during incident. A copy of this
report will be given to the Site Director and Associate Dean to be placed in the student’s
folder.
Financial responsibility for testing and recommended care following an exposure rests solely
with the student. This could include testing, evaluation, treatment, and counseling.
If you have questions about the appropriate medical treatment, the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention recommend that you call a 24 hour assistance line at 1.888.448.4911
(Clinicians’ Post Exposure Prophylaxis Hotline).
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POTENTIAL RESOURCES FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT
Emergency Department
Primary Care Physician
Occupational Health
Urgent Care
Cooke Health and Wellness Center
Located on GCU Main Campus
Hours of Operation are Mon-Friday 8am-5pm
Phone 602.639.6215
Call to verify provider availability
Concentra Urgent Care Facilities
Located at 1818 E Sky Harbor Cir N. Building 2, Suite 150, Phoenix
Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week
Phone 602.244.9500
Tuberculosis Exposure Plan
Tuberculosis (TB) exposure potential is defined as any exposure to the exhaled or expired air of
a person with suspected or confirmed TB disease. A high hazard procedure involving an
individual with suspected or confirmed TB disease are those that have the potential to generate
potentially infectious airborne respiratory secretions such as aerosolized medication treatment,
bronchoscopy, sputum induction, endotracheal intubation, and suctioning. Workplaces with
inherent exposure potential to TB disease:
 Health care facilities
 Corrections facilities
 Homeless shelters/clinics for homeless
 Long term health facilities
 Drug treatment centers
Post-exposure Procedure
1. When a Tuberculosis (TB) exposure occurs, the involved student will report the incident
to the clinical instructor and the appropriate administrative staff at the involved institution
or agency.
2. The student will be counseled immediately and referred to his or her personal health
care provider, the Maricopa County Health Department, or the Cooke Health Center.
3. A baseline Tuberculosis Skin Test (TST) should be administered as soon as possible
after the exposure.
4. Frequency of follow-up TSTs will be performed per provider protocol. A TST performed
12 weeks after the last exposure will indicate whether infection has occurred.
5. A student with evidence of new infection, (TST conversions) needs to be evaluated for
active TB. Even if active TB is not diagnosed, prophylactic therapy for latent TB is
recommended.
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6. A student with a previously documented reactive TST need not be retested but should
have a baseline symptom screen performed following the exposure and repeated 12
weeks after the exposure. If the symptom screen is positive a chest x-ray is required.
7. Any active case of TB must be reported to Maricopa County Health Department.
Return to Class
A student diagnosed with active pulmonary or laryngeal TB may be highly infectious; and
will not be able to attend class or clinical experiences until he/she is noninfectious.
In order to return to school the student will need to provide documentation from the health
care provider that he/she is noninfectious. The documentation needs to include evidence
that:
 The student has received adequate therapy for a minimum of 2 weeks.
 The cough has resolved, and the student is not experiencing chest pain, hemoptysis,
fever or chills.
 The results of three consecutive sputum acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smears collected on
different days are negative
Note: The Cooke Health Center can perform TST, but will refer the student to Maricopa
County Health Dept for treatment and AFB testing if indicated.
Documentation and Financial Responsibility
 After the student returns to school and remains on anti-TB therapy, periodic
documentation from their health care provider is needed to show that effective drug
therapy is being maintained for the recommended period and that the sputum AFB
smear results remain negative.
 The student is responsible for all costs related to the exposure incident.
 The student’s health records will be maintained in a confidential file within the College of
Nursing.
Student Nurse Uniform Attire
The student uniform should be worn only for specific scheduled clinical or classroom activities.
Any deviations in dress at clinical including simulation lab will result in clinical warning or the
student being sent home from clinical and placed on clinical probation. Proper identification
MUST be worn at all times in all clinical settings.
The uniform consists of
1. Purple scrub pants or a skirt below the knees that is purple or white
2. Purple scrub tops with modest neckline
3. White lab jacket
a. A white lab jacket must be worn if appropriate street clothes are worn in place of the
uniform for patient selection. Shorts, very short skirts, jeans, tank tops, tube tops,
see-through clothing, exercise clothes (sweats), and open-toed shoes are not
acceptable attire in any clinical agency.
b. A white lab jacket is now optional for Level 4. Uniform will be as required by clinical
agency.
c. Scrubs and white lab jackets may be purchased through the CON Student Nurses
Association (SNA).
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4. Optional, white cotton tee shirts, crew neck or turtleneck, may be worn under uniforms
for warmth or modesty. A scrub jacket may be worn in the clinical setting for warmth.
5. Name Badge, available from the College of Nursing. The name badge will list your first
name, and “Student Nurse” and your picture. The name badge must be worn while
attending any clinical activity. Name badge will not be worn outside of the clinical
agency.
6. White or neutral socks or hose are to be worn with the uniform.
7. Shoes are to be predominantly white duty, leather shoes with predominantly white soles
and closed heels or predominantly white, clean athletic shoes. Shoelaces must also be
white.
8. Undergarments will not be visible through the uniform.
9. Additional items to be part of the uniform are:
a. Stethoscope with a bell and diaphragm head
b. Penlight
c. Bandage scissors
d. Black and Red pens
e. Goggles/ Protective eye wear
f. If a belt organizer is used, it must be white or purple.
g. Watch with a second hand.
Professional Appearance
1. When applicable, the clinical facility’s ID must be worn whenever in that facility. Students
who do not wear this ID may be asked to leave the facility.
2. Hair should be short, pulled back and styled neatly. Beards or mustaches, if worn,
should be neatly trimmed.
3. Fingernails should be neatly trimmed and free of cracked nail polish. Only clear or
neutral nail polish may be used if desired. Acrylic nails or any other nail enhancements
are not permitted.
4. Permitted jewelry is: one pair of studded earrings, a watch, a plain ring band. No other
visible jewelry is acceptable including tongue rings or other facial jewelry. Tattoos and
any other body art should be covered where possible. (Students are directed to follow
the agency guidelines when in specified areas such as nursery, labor and delivery, and
operating room).
5. Perfume, after-shave lotion, and heavy makeup are not acceptable in the clinical area.
6. Gum chewing is not acceptable.
7. Clothing worn in course activities not requiring student uniform should adhere to
professional standards.
8. Cell phone use is not permitted in the classroom or clinical setting.
9. Please remember that students represent Grand Canyon University. Look clean, neat,
and professional.
Medication Administration Policy
Administration of medication in the clinical setting should not occur with anyone but the Grand
Canyon clinical faculty or with special arrangement by the faculty in agreement with the
healthcare agency policies. All medication administration by students must be directly
supervised by GCU faculty or the agency RN if permitted.
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Re-Entry to Nursing Major Courses
Any student who exits the nursing program prematurely for any reason must reapply to obtain
another seat in the program. The reason(s) a student is unable to successfully progress may be
due to failure, withdrawal (elective or administrative) or leave of absence (LOA) in a course(s).
Any student who exits the nursing program prematurely for any reason must reapply to obtain
another seat in the program. The reason(s) a student is unable to successfully progress may be
due to failure, withdrawal (elective or administrative) or leave of absence (LOA) in a course(s).
Readmission Definitions:
a. Student in Good Standing: A student will be considered in “Good Standing” when
the eligibility to progress to the next semester is guaranteed through the
successful completion of all coursework within the current semester.
b. Eligibility to Progress: A student will be considered eligible to progress when all
portions (test, theory, and clinical) of each nursing course are passed with a 76%
or greater average. A student must attain 76% or greater overall to complete a
course successfully.
c. Student Not in Good Standing: A student will be considered “Not in Good
Standing” when through WITHDRAWAL (administrative) or FAILURE the student
has not successfully completed all coursework for the current semester. Given
the student is now out of sequence with the normal progression of the nursing
program, the student has lost his or her seat in the program and must seek
readmission to the nursing program.
d. Failure: NUR course failure occurs when the student does not attain a 76% or
greater for each section (test, theory, and clinical) of the course and overall score
for a NUR course.
Conditions for Readmission Application
a. Student has been out of the nursing major for at least one clinical course.
b. Student receives a failure in one enrolled nursing course.
c. Student has been administratively withdrawn from a nursing major course.
Guidelines for Readmission
a. Consideration for readmission will be granted only to the student who is in
compliance with the following readmission guidelines:
i. The student must schedule an exit interview with the campus program
director within 10 days of exit.
ii. The Exit Interview/Readmission Application will be completed and signed
during the exit interview.
iii. Student requesting readmission must have:
1. A 2.7 cumulative GPA on 4.0 scale in all nursing major courses. GPA
will be calculated using course grades from previously completed
nursing major courses, (excluding failure).
2. A letter to the Program Director detailing:
a. The reason(s) for not progressing in the nursing major.
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b. The reason(s) for readmission to the nursing major.
c. Indicate how the student’s status has changed in regards to
progression in the nursing major. Give examples of the
strategies for success to be implemented if granted
readmission.
iv. The Program Director, Associate Dean, or Dean may specify certain
criteria necessary for readmission. Additional readmission criteria may
include but are not limited to:
1. Repeating of academic courses;
2. Work experience;
3. Remediation classes;
4. Counseling;
5. Review of Code of Conduct issues, including timeliness,
professionalism, and accountability.
6. Remediation activities related to Code of Conduct issues.
b. The student is responsible for providing documentation of compliance with the
readmission criteria. This may include a summary of work, educational, and
other experiences required/obtained since leaving the program.
i. Documentation will be submitted to the Program Director a minimum of
30-days prior to the start of the designated date of readmission.
c. The student must comply with all criteria set forth in the Exit
Interview/Readmission Application within the specified time frame to be
considered for readmission.
d. A student who prematurely exits the nursing program for any reason will
complete an exit interview with the campus program director.
e. Students may be granted one readmission.
f.
A student requesting readmission to the College of Nursing may need to comply
with new curriculum requirements.
g. Readmission to the nursing program is not guaranteed simply because the
student was previously enrolled in nursing courses or was previously accepted.
The decision will be based on the evidence showing that the student is ready to
continue, has potential to complete the program, and is in compliance with
University regulations and standards of behavior.
h. All readmissions are subject to space availability (didactic and clinical) and
approval of the Dean of Nursing or Associate Dean of Nursing, and the program
site Director.
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If readmission is granted, the readmission is valid only for the semester noted on
the Readmission Request Form.
j.
If readmission is granted, the student must meet all the requirements for
readmission as detailed on the Readmission Request Form.
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k. Within 14 working days of the exit interview the student will receive a letter
notifying him or her if the application for readmission was approved or denied.
i.
ii.
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Student acceptance letter will include a signed copy of the exit interview
and will detail the requirements and timelines the student must meet
before registration for courses can occur.
Students denied readmission will receive a signed copy of the exit
interview form including rationale for the College’s decision.
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Completing the Pre-licensure BSN Program
Licensure Examination
In order to be eligible to take the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Examination for
Professional Licensure after graduation, students must have completed the BSN program of
study and hold a diploma. No exceptions are made to this policy.
Students are responsible for applying to take the National Council License Examination –
Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) exam for professional licensure through the State Board of
Nursing.
Graduation Requirements for the Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in
Nursing Degree
The registered nurse licensing requirements are the exclusive responsibility of the State Board
of Nursing (Nurse Practice Act, A.R.S.. Sections 36-1601 et. seq.) and must be satisfied
independently of any requirements for graduation from the University. Historically, College of
Nursing graduates have been successful on the licensure examination. Satisfactory
performance on the licensure examination is the responsibility of the graduate and not
guaranteed by the College of Nursing.
Professional Nurse Qualifications
Section 32-1632 of the Arizona State Board of Nursing Statutes, Chapter 15, Article 2 –
Licensing states, “An applicant for a license to practice as a graduate, professional or registered
nurse shall file with the board a verified written application accompanied by the prescribed fee
and shall submit satisfactory proof that the applicant:
1. Has completed the basic professional curriculum in approved professional nursing
program and holds a diploma or degree from that program.
2. If convicted of one or more felonies, has received an absolute discharge from the
sentences for all felony convictions five or more years prior to the date filing an
application pursuant to this chapter.”
Nursing students are expected to be clear of any felony convictions at the time of admission into
the College of Nursing and to remain free of felony convictions for the duration of the program. If
the prospective student or student is charged with a felony or misdemeanor either before
admission or during the program, he/she must speak with the Associate Dean immediately.
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College of Nursing Professional Organizations
Student Nurses Association
The College of Nursing at Grand Canyon University offers a chapter of the Student Nurses
Association to our students in Arizona. The chapter is affiliated with the Student Nurses
Association of Arizona (SNAAZ) and the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA).
Meetings are held monthly and are open to all CON students. Students are also encouraged to
seek membership in SNA and run for office, regardless of the student’s level. The SNA offers
opportunities for student growth such as community service and mentoring.
Nurses Christian Fellowship
Grand Canyon University College of Nursing is proud to host a chapter of Nurses Christian
Fellowship. Nurses Christian Fellowship is both a professional and a student organization that
assists students in connecting their Christian faith to their nursing practice. Through weekly
Bible Study, fellowship and prayer, students learn that being a Christian nurse means one
is called to provide holistic care for the sick, the poor and the needy, demonstrating the
character of God to the world. Through weekly discussions, the students learn how to bring the
light of Christ into dark situations with humility, love, passion and power.
Student Advisory Board
All pre-licensure BSN students are encouraged and invited to attend the Student Advisory
Board (SAB) meetings. The meetings are run by the Associate Dean of Nursing and are held
once a month. The goals for the SAB are:
1. Facilitate communication between faculty, staff, and students.
2. Increase student input regarding College of Nursing activities.
3. Identify areas for improvement in the College of Nursing.
Sigma Theta Tau
In 1922 six nurses founded Sigma Theta Tau at the Indiana University Training School for
Nurses, now the Indiana University School of Nursing, in Indianapolis, Ind., USA. The founders
chose the name from the Greek words Storgé, Tharsos and Timé meaning "love," "courage"
and "honor." The honor society became incorporated in 1985 as Sigma Theta Tau International
Inc., a nonprofit organization with a 501(c)(3) tax status in the United States.
The mission of the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International is to support the
learning, knowledge, and professional development of nurses committed to making a difference
in health worldwide
The vision of the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International is to create a global
community of nurses who lead in using knowledge, scholarship, service and learning to improve
the health of the world’s people.
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Grand Canyon University chapter of STT is Nu Upsilon. Membership is by invitation to
baccalaureate and graduate nursing students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship, and
to nurse leaders exhibiting exceptional achievements in nursing. To be considered for
membership, the undergraduate student must meet the following requirements:
 junior or senior student enrolled in baccalaureate program at accredited institutions of
higher education (GCU)
 completed at least 1/2 of the nursing curriculum
 rank in the upper 35 percent of their graduating class
 achieved academic excellence (Achieved a 3.0 GPA based on a 4.0 GPA).
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Miscellaneous Nursing Costs and Fees
Nursing program tuition is determined by Grand Canyon University. The dollar amounts listed
below are meant to give students a general idea of what additional costs to expect when
enrolled in the pre-licensure BSN nursing program. Grand Canyon University reserves the right
to change the amount of fees and/or the course in which applied to the student’s account. The
listing of fees below is not limited to all charges applied to the student’s account by Grand
Canyon University.
Textbooks
Textbooks are required at each level. There are more textbooks required for Level 1 courses,
but the books purchased at that (and other levels) will be used throughout the program. The
amounts listed below are estimates.
Level 1 $800
Level 2 $300
Level 3 $400
Level 4 $250
Level 5 $200
Fees applied to courses
Course
NUR 206A
NUR 206B
NUR 203
NUR 209
NUR 311
NUR 312
NUR 313
NUR 314
NUR 398
NUR 411
NUR 412
NUR 413
NUR 443
NUR 456
NUR 498A
NUR 498B
Lab Fee
Total Testing (ATI) Fee
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
NCLEX Live Review Fee
100
100
100
100
375
.
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Student Uniform, Equipment
The complete student uniform list can be found under the “Student Uniform Attire” section in this
handbook. The items are to be purchased by the student, so the prices will vary, depending on
brand, type, and quality of the equipment.
The scrubs are to be purchased through the GCU Student Nurse’s Association SNA. The cost
for items listed below are estimates. Scrub prices can vary, depending on quantity, style and
size ordered. It is recommended to have a minimum of two tops and two pants.
Scrub Top
Scrub Pant
$25
$20
Warm-up Jacket (purple)
Lab Coat (white)
$22
$20
The GCU SNA also sells stethoscopes and other uniform equipment, but students are not
required to purchase them through SNA. New nursing students are encouraged to test out the
different stethoscope options available during the skills labs (in NUR 206A and NUR 209
courses) before purchasing one.
Students are encouraged to purchase high quality, comfortable shoes.
Drug screen
A random drug screen is scheduled by the College of Nursing for students prior to the student’s
first clinical experience. (For most students, the cost will be incurred prior to NUR 206B.) The
approximate cost is $50.
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ADDENDUM
NEW MEXICO CAMPUS
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New Mexico campus pre-licensure BSN students are held to the same standards, duties and
responsibilities as defined in the student handbook with the following exceptions for the New
Mexico campus.
1. Health and Immunization Requirements for Pre-Licensure BSN Students
i. The fingerprint (FP) clearance card must be submitted prior to beginning
the program for all new students. In New Mexico GCU has partnered with
Hospital Services Corporation (HSC). To obtain more information
regarding costs and the Authorization for Release of Information form
please contact your admissions representative or Kristin Kelley-Gomez at
(505) 823-8631.
2. Graduation Requirements for the Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Degree
i. The registered nurse licensing requirements are the exclusive
responsibility of the State Board of Nursing (Nurse Practice Act, Chapter
61, Article 3, NMSA 1978) and must be satisfied independently of any
requirements for graduation from the University. Historically, College of
Nursing graduates have been successful on the licensure examination.
Satisfactory performance on the licensure examination is the
responsibility of the graduate and not guaranteed by the College of
Nursing.
1. http://www.bon.state.nm.us/pdf/rules_part2_Dec2010.pdf
3. Professional Nurse Qualifications
i. Per 16.12.2.10 – Licensure Requirements for Registered Nurses and
Practical Nurses
1. http://www.bon.state.nm.us/pdf/Statues.pdf
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