General Policies

Admissions

Admissions Policy Statement

It shall be the policy of Drake State to admit all students who meet the established admission criteria.
Admission decisions will be made without regard to the applicant’s race, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, religion, creed, national origin, or age.

Academic Advisement

Potential students are encouraged to meet with the Academic Completion Specialists, Enrollment Advisor, and program faculty prior to deciding on a particular program of study. The College has a large assortment of media on different careers for students who are undecided on a program of study. Once a student decides on a program of study, the appropriate Academic Completion Specialist and faculty advisor of the chosen program become the student’s academic advisors.

Admission of First-Time College Students

An applicant who has not previously attended any regionally accredited postsecondary institution will be designated a first-time college student or a native student. To be eligible for admission, a first-time college student must meet one of the following criteria:

hold an Alabama high school diploma
a high school diplomas of another state equivalent to an Alabama high school diploma
an equivalent diploma issued by a non-public and/or non-regionally accredited high school
or a GED (General Educational Development) Certificate issued by the appropriate state education agency. A student who meets one of the above criteria shall be classified as "degree eligible."

Unconditional Admission of First-Time College Students

For unconditional admission, applicants must complete an online application for admission and provide the following:
• An official high school or GED transcript

Conditional Admission of First-Time College Students

For conditional admission, applicants must complete an online application for admission and provide the following:
• An unofficial high school or GED transcript. (Failure to provide all official transcripts by the end of the first semester will prevent a student from future registration.)

*Students who are conditionally admitted are not eligible to receive Federal, Veteran educational benefits, or institutional aid.

Admission of Transient Students

A student who attends another postsecondary institution and who seeks credit for transfer to that parent institution may be admitted to the College as a transient student. The student must submit an online application for admission and an official letter from the institution which certifies that the credit earned at the College will be accepted as a part of the student’s academic program. The student is not required to file transcripts of previously-earned credits at other postsecondary institutions.

Admission of Transfer Students

Unconditional Admission of Transfer Students

An applicant who has previously attended another regionally accredited postsecondary institution will be required to complete an online application for admission and provide the following:

Official transcripts of all work attempted at all said institutions. Students who have achieved a minimum of a Baccalaureate degree are only required to submit a transcript from the granting institution with the exception of students utilizing Veteran benefits. If transfer students are using Veteran benefits, all transcripts from all institutions must be submitted.

• An official high school or GED transcript.

EXCEPTION: Veteran Students – All official transcripts including military transcripts must be submitted prior to admission to the institution. Students receiving Veteran’s education benefits must have transcripts of all prior military and civilian training sent to and evaluated by the Office of Admissions prior to any enrollment certifications being submitted to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Conditional Admission of Transfer Students

An applicant who has previously attended another regionally accredited postsecondary institution will be required to complete an online application for admission and provide the following:

Unofficial transcripts of work attempted at all institutions. Students who have achieved a minimum of a Baccalaureate degree are only required to submit a transcript from the granting institution. *Please review exception of students utilizing Veteran benefits. Failure to provide all official transcripts by the end of the first semester will prevent a student from future registration.
An unofficial high school or GED transcript.
ACCUPLACER assessment or proof of minimum required scores on the ACT or SAT, or certain exemptions as stated in the Assessment and Placement policy. OPTIONAL

*Students who are conditionally admitted are not eligible to receive Federal, Veteran educational benefits, or institutional aid.

EXCEPTION: Veteran Students - All official transcripts including military transcripts must be submitted prior to admission to the institution. Students receiving Veteran benefits must have transcripts of all prior military and civilian training sent to and evaluated by the Office of Admissions prior to any enrollment certifications being submitted to the Department of Veteran Affairs.

Initial Academic Status of Transfer Students

A transfer student whose cumulative grade point average at the transfer institution(s) is 2.0 or above on a 4.0 scale will be admitted on Clear academic status. A transfer student whose cumulative grade point average at the transfer institution(s) is less than 2.0 on a 4.0 scale will be admitted on Academic Probation.

Admission of International Students

Prior to being issued an I-20 form, international students are required to complete an application for admission and provide the following:

International First-Time Students

A certified original translated and evaluated copy of the student's high school transcript.
A current and valid passport or other official documentation to verify lawful presence.
A current photo (passport-size, preferred).
A minimum score of 5.5 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), a total score of 61 on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), a total score of 173 on the computer-based TOEFL, or a total score of 500 on the paper-based TOEFL.
A signed notarized Affidavit of support (letter from a banking institution verifying balance must be noted in U.S. dollars) verifying adequate financial support.
Payment of I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fee.
A medical health history with proof of vaccinations.
Documentation demonstrating adequate health and life insurance, including repatriation, which must be maintained during all periods of enrollment.

International Transfer Students

A certified original translated and evaluated copy of the student's high school transcript verifying completion status and a translated and evaluated transcript from each college attended. Students who have achieved a minimum of a Baccalaureate degree are only required to submit a transcript from the degree granting institution.
A signed notarized Affidavit of support (letter from a banking institution verifying balance must be noted in U.S. dollars) verifying financial support.
Copy of student's current Form I-20.
Copy of student's Visa and Passport.
A medical health history with proof of vaccinations.
Documentation demonstrating adequate health and life insurance, including repatriation, which must be maintained during all periods of enrollment.

Re-Enrollment of Students

A student who has not maintained continuous enrollment (i.e., has not been enrolled for three or more consecutive semesters, or has graduated from the college) and wishes to re-enroll must apply for re-entry as a returning student. If continuous enrollment is not maintained, graduation requirements may change.

Audit Student

An audit student is an applicant who wishes to enroll for classes only on an audit basis. The applicant must meet college admissions criteria, which consist of a completed online admission application and high school transcript or GED certificate for a first-time student, or a completed admission application and official transcripts from all colleges attended for a transfer student and all other required documentation.

An applicant who has a Baccalaureate degree will need to submit only the transcript from the institution awarding the degree. Audit students must abide by class attendance policy and all standard course requirements, excluding the completion of course examinations. The cost of auditing a course is the same as enrolling for credit.

Senior Citizens

Persons sixty (60) years of age or older may be eligible for a tuition waiver if they qualify for the Senior Adult Scholarship Program. Applicants must meet the following conditions:

Comply with the college admission standards as noted earlier in this catalog under Admission of First-time College Students, Admission of Transfer Students or Former Students applying for Readmission.
Be an Alabama resident.
Be sixty (60) years of age or older.
Enroll for credit; noncredit enrollment is not eligible for tuition waiver.

The student is responsible for any fees or other charges applied to the general student body. Senior citizens granted a tuition waiver under the Senior Adult Scholarship Program may receive the tuition waiver only one time per course. Any time a senior citizen repeats a course the student is responsible not only for fees but also for tuition.

General Principles for Transfer of Credit

Equivalent Transfer Credits

Drake State reserves the right to accept or deny course work presented for transfer credit. Typically, all course work from regionally accredited institutions will be accepted as fair equivalent courses at Drake State, provided the college has equivalent courses at all appropriate levels. Courses not having fair equivalents at Drake State may or may not be accepted. For additional information, students may contact the Office of Admissions.

Any student who has previously attended another regionally accredited postsecondary institution is considered a transfer student and is required to furnish official transcripts of ALL work attempted at each institution. Transcripts are evaluated by the Office of Admissions with appropriate transfer credits placed on the Drake State transcript including current academic standing. Accepted coursework will be listed in the transfer category with credit hours earned awarded. General principles for the transfer of credit for degree eligible students and the standards for academic progress of transfer students are used. Students can also utilize the Alabama Transfers website https://www.alabamatransfers.com / for transfer credit information.

Coursework accepted as transfer work or credit toward an undergraduate program of study must represent collegiate level coursework relevant to course content and level of instruction equivalent to those of students enrolled in the Drake State undergraduate programs. In assessing and documenting equivalent learning and the awarding of credit, the College may use guides recognized or published by the American Council on Education, the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers and the Alabama Community College System Uniform Course Directory.

All transfer work or credit earned from non-traditional sources awarded by Drake State allows students the opportunity to achieve their educational goals and supports the college's mission. As a member of the Alabama Community College System, Drake State assumes the responsibility for providing a quality education to all students.

A transfer student from a collegiate institution not accredited by the appropriate regional association may request an evaluation of transfer credits after completing 15 semester hours at Drake State with a cumulative GPA (Grade Point Average) of 2.0 or above.

A transfer grade of “D” will only be accepted when the transfer student’s cumulative GPA is 2.0 or above. If the student has a cumulative 2.0 or above, the “D” grade will be accepted the same as for native students. Credit may be extended based on a comprehensive evaluation of demonstrated and documented competencies and previous formal training.

*Note: Transfer work is not calculated in the student’s Drake State GPA. However, if qualified, the course transferred can count toward earning a degree.

Credit for Life Experience and Noncredit Education

By policy of the Alabama Community College System, students may receive credit for previous work experience or non-credit continuing education, such as professional development workshops or industry-sanctioned training, whether provided by the college or other training providers. Allowable credit is determined by the program instructor and the Office of Admissions, with the approval of the Dean of Instruction.

Credit for academic transfer courses can be awarded by examination or nationally recognized guidelines (such as AP, CLEP, ACT/PEP, DANTES, Challenge Exams, ACE PONSI/CREDIT, or ACE/MILITARY). Credit for non-transfer technical courses may be awarded through examination, portfolio evaluation, and demonstrated mastery of the competencies taught in the courses for which credit is to be given.

Credit awarded in this manner is referred to as “experiential credit,” awarded through non-traditional means. A student may not be awarded experiential credit in excess of 25% of the total requirement of the program award being sought. Credits awarded in this manner do not count toward the requirement that a minimum of 25% of credits awarded in any program must be taken at the institution granting the award.

Course Credit by Departmental Challenge Examination

Students may be awarded credit for documented competencies and formal training on challenge examinations.

Specialized Military Training

The College adheres to policies prescribed by the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services in granting credit for military course work.

Advanced Placement

Students who have completed college level courses offered by high schools and have earned a score of 3 or higher on the AP Exam will receive credit.

Articulated Credit

A planned process that allows a high school student enrolled in certain occupational/technical programs the opportunity to progress from secondary to postsecondary in a sequential manner of instruction. (Statewide Articulation.)

Credit for Transfer

Any student who has previously attended another regionally accredited postsecondary institution is considered a transfer student and is required to furnish official transcripts of ALL work attempted at each institution. Transcripts are evaluated by the Office of Admissions with appropriate transfer credits placed on the Drake State transcript including current academic standing.

CLEP – College Level Examination Program

Credit for subject examinations is granted based on 50th percentile scores with courses awarded for credit listed in the college catalog. Drake State is not currently a testing center for CLEP examinations but will evaluate and accept credits for CLEP examinations for courses listed in the college catalog. Students will be responsible for scheduling and paying for CLEP examinations. For information on testing centers, examinations, fees, and other details, please visit the College Board website https://clep.collegeboard.org/about-clep.

Admission of Nursing Students

Minimum Admission Standards for the Nursing Program

Because graduates of the nursing program must pass a licensure examination, separate policies, and guidelines higher than the institutional standards have been established.

Admission Policies

Selection to the Associate Degree Nursing Program at Drake State is based on criteria set by the selection committee.

Admission Criteria for Nursing Programs - Associate Degree (RN (Registered Nursing) and LPN-RN Mobility) and Practical Nursing (PN):

Unconditional admission to college.
A completed application for admission to nursing program received before published deadline.
ACT composite score National or Residual or entrance exam score (Not required for PN program). The ACT score has no expiration date. The entrance exam scores must be dated 3 years or less from the application deadline.
A minimum of 2.5 GPA (Grade Point Average) for nursing required academic core courses and minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA at current, native institution or cumulative 2.0 in institution from which student is transferring.
A minimum of 2.5 GPA cumulative high school GPA for students without prior college courses (GED (General Educational Development) will be used if applicable).
Meet the essential functions for nursing.
Eligibility for ENG 101, MTH 100, and BIO 201.
Mobility students are additionally required to provide proof of unencumbered, Alabama licensure (i.e., LPN (Licensed Practical Nurses), Paramedic). No work history is required. No associate degree is required for paramedics. Prerequisites required for Mobility program application: ENG 101, MTH 100 or higher-level math, BIO 201 & BIO 202, SPH 106 or SPH 107, and PSY 210.

The Selection Criteria for the various nursing programs are available on the website.
Admission to the Nursing Programs is competitive, and the number of students is limited by the number of faculty and clinical facilities available. Meeting minimal requirements does not guarantee acceptance. In addition, the applicant must:
1. Complete an application to Drake State.
2. Submit official transcripts from all high schools and/or colleges attended.
3. Be able to provide his/her own transportation to clinical facilities.

Understand that admission to the nursing program is on a space-available basis and is based on a comparative evaluation of all selection criteria, transcripts, and application information.

Standards of Conduct

The nursing student shall comply with legal, moral, and legislative standards which determine unacceptable behavior of the nurse, and which may be cause for denial of license to practice as a Nurse (registered and/or practical), in accordance with the Alabama Administrative Code 610-X-8-.02 “Grounds For Discipline Or Denial Of An Initial License Or Certificate Of Qualification,” a few examples are stated below. Please view https://www.abn.alabama.gov/laws/#tab-code for details of the law.

“The Board may, upon licensure, reprimand, fine, probate, suspend, and/or otherwise discipline … or deny an application for initial licensure … and/or temporary permit by examination or endorsement, upon proof that the person:

Has failed to meet any requirement or standard established by law or by rules and regulations adopted by the Board.
Has engaged in fraud, misrepresentation, deception, or concealment of a material fact in applying for or securing licensure or taking any examination required for licensure.
Is unfit or incompetent due to the use of alcohol, or is addicted to the use of habit-forming drugs to such an extent as to render the registered nurse or licensure practical nurse unsafe or unreliable.

[Excerpt Source: https://www.abn.alabama.gov/laws/#tab-code]

*Failure to Comply with any of the above stipulations while in the Nursing Program constitutes grounds for dismissal from the program.

Program Policies

Because graduates of the Nursing Program must pass the national licensing examination upon completion of their program, separate policies and guidelines that may be higher than the institutional standards have been established. Each student will be given a copy of the appropriate policies on admission to the program. Note: Although some separate policies and guidelines have been established for the nursing program, nursing students must comply with the policies set forth in the College Catalog.

Nursing Program Essential Functions

The Alabama Community College System endorses the Americans with Disabilities Act. In accordance with College policy, when requested, reasonable accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

Physical, cognitive, psychomotor, affective, and social abilities are required in unique combinations to provide safe and effective nursing care. The applicant/student must be able to meet the essential functions with or without reasonable accommodations throughout the program of learning. Admission, progression, and graduation are contingent upon one’s ability to demonstrate the essential functions delineated for the nursing programs with or without reasonable accommodations. The nursing programs and/or its affiliated clinical agencies may identify additional essential functions. The nursing programs reserve the right to amend the essential functions as deemed necessary.

In order to be admitted and to progress in the nursing program, one must possess a functional level of ability to perform the duties required of a nurse. Admission or progression may be denied if a student is unable to demonstrate the essential functions with or without reasonable accommodations.

The essential functions delineated are those deemed necessary by the Alabama Community College System nursing programs. No representation regarding industrial standards is implied. Similarly, any reasonable accommodations made will be determined and applied to the respective nursing program and may vary from reasonable accommodations made by healthcare employers. The essential functions delineated below are necessary for nursing program admission, progression, and graduation and for the provision of safe and effective nursing care. The essential functions include but are not limited to the ability to:

1. Observe and discern subtle changes in physical conditions and the environment

2. Visualize different color spectrums and color changes

3. Read fine print in varying levels of light

4. Read for prolonged periods of time

5. Read cursive writing

6. Read at varying distances

7. Read data/information displayed on monitors/equipment

8. Interpret monitoring devices

9. Distinguish muffled sounds heard through a stethoscope

10. Hear and discriminate high and low frequency sounds produced by the body and the environment

11. Effectively hear to communicate with others

12. Discern tremors, vibrations, pulses, textures, temperature, shapes, size, location, and other physical characteristics

13. Detect body odors and odors in the environment

14. Verbally and in writing, engage in a two-way communication and interact effectively with others from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds

15. Work effectively in groups

16. Work effectively independently

17. Effectively read, write, and comprehend the English language

18. Consistently and dependably engage in the process of critical thinking to formulate and implement safe and ethical nursing decisions in a variety of health care settings

19. Demonstrate satisfactory performance on written examinations, including mathematical computations without a calculator

20. Satisfactorily achieve the program objectives

21. Handle small delicate equipment/objects without extraneous movement, contamination, or destruction

22. Move, position, turn, transfer, assist with lifting, or lift and carry clients without injury to clients, self, or others

23. Maintain balance from any position

24. Stand on both legs

25. Coordinate hand/eye movements

26. Push/pull heavy objects without injury to client, self, or others

27. Stand, bend, walk and/or sit for 6-12 hours in a clinical setting, performing physical activities requiring energy without jeopardizing the safety of the client, self, or others

28. Walk without a cane, walker, or crutches

29. Function with hands free for nursing care and transporting items

30. Transport self and client without the use of electrical devices

31. Flex, abduct and rotate all joints freely

32. Respond rapidly to emergency situations

33. Maneuver in small areas

34. Perform daily care functions for the client

35. Coordinate fine and gross motor hand movements to provide safe effective nursing care

36. Calibrate/use equipment

37. Execute movement required to provide nursing care in all health care settings

38. Perform CPR and physical assessment

39. Operate a computer

40. Convey caring, respect, sensitivity, tact, compassion, empathy, tolerance, and a healthy attitude toward others

41. Demonstrate a mentally healthy attitude that is age appropriate in relationship to the client

42. Handle multiple tasks concurrently

43. Perform safe, effective nursing care for clients in a caring context

44. Understand and follow the policies and procedures of the College and clinical agencies

45. Understand the consequences of violating the student code of conduct

46. Understand that posing a direct threat to others is unacceptable and subjects one to discipline

47. Meet qualifications for licensure by examination as stipulated by the Alabama Board of Nursing

48. Not to pose a threat to self or others

49. Function effectively in situations of uncertainty and stress inherent in providing nursing care

50. Adapt to changing environments and situations

51. Remain free of chemical dependency

52. Report promptly to clinicals and remain for 6-12 hours on the clinical unit

53. Provide nursing care in an appropriate time frame

54. Accepts responsibility, accountability, and ownership of one’s actions

55. Seek supervision/consultation in a timely manner

56. Examine and modify one’s own behavior when it interferes with nursing care or learning

Upon admission, an individual who discloses a disability can request reasonable accommodations. Individuals will be asked to provide documentation of the disability in order to assist with the provision of appropriate reasonable accommodations. The respective College will provide reasonable accommodations but is not required to substantially alter the requirements or nature of the program or provide accommodations that inflicts an undue burden on the respective College. In order to be admitted one must be able to perform all the essential functions with or without reasonable accommodations. If an individual’s health changes during the program of learning, so that the essential functions cannot be met with or without reasonable accommodations, the student will be withdrawn from the nursing program. The nursing faculty reserves the right at any time to require an additional medical examination at the student’s expense in order to assist with the evaluation of the student’s ability to perform the essential functions.

*Requests for reasonable accommodations should be directed to the Student Success Specialist at drakestate.edu/student-services/disability-support-services/.

Nursing Program Progression Policy

In order to progress in the nursing program, the student must:
1. Achieve a grade of C or better in all required general education and nursing courses.

2. Be acceptable by all clinical agencies for clinical experiences.

3. Maintain ability to meet all essential functions for nursing with or without reasonable accommodations.

4. Must have been enrolled in a nursing course at Drake State in the past twelve months or less.

5. Maintain program health requirements.

6. A total of two unsuccessful attempts in two separate semesters (D, F, or W) in the nursing program will result in dismissal from the program.

7. A student may be reinstated to the nursing program only one time. The reinstatement is not guaranteed due to limitations in clinical spaces. All nursing program admission standards must be met.

8.Students who have not been enrolled in nursing courses for twelve months or more must apply as a new student.

9. A student must have a 2.0 cumulative GPA at the current institution for reinstatement.

10. If a student has a documented extenuating circumstance that should be considered related to a withdrawal or failure, then this student may request a hearing before the Admissions Committee or other appropriate college committee for a decision on repeating a course or readmission to the program.

11. ADN students whose second unsuccessful attempt occurs in NUR 211 or NUR 221 may apply for the Mobility program. These students must meet all admission requirements for Mobility, including a 2.5 cumulative GPA and valid Alabama Practical Nursing License.

Definitions

Reinstatement: Students who have a withdrawal or failure in a nursing course and are eligible to return to that course will be considered for reinstatement to the program.

Readmission: Students not eligible for reinstatement may apply for program admission as a new student and must submit all application criteria. If accepted as a new student the student must take, or retake, all nursing program courses.

Process for Reinstatement

(1) Student should first schedule an appointment with a nursing faculty/advisor to discuss eligibility for reinstatement.

(2) Student must apply for reinstatement to the nursing program and submit the application with ACT test results and application for reinstatement by the following deadline:
(i) Application for reinstatement must be made the semester prior to the semester of reinstatement. Example: if a student wishes to be reinstated into NUR 114 in the summer 2020 semester, the application needs to be submitted prior to mid-term of the spring 2020 semester.
(ii) Student selection for reinstatement will be made no less than one week prior to the end of the semester; students will be notified prior to the end of the semester.
(iii) If repeating a course, student is responsible for all fees attached to the course.

(3) Student must apply for readmission to college if not currently enrolled. College readmission must be accomplished by the following deadlines:
(i) Application for readmission must be submitted the semester prior to the reinstatement semester. Example: if the student applies be reinstated into NUR 114 in the summer 2020 semester, the application needs to be submitted prior to mid-term of the spring 2020 semester.
(ii) Student selection for readmission will be made no less than one week prior to the end of the semester; students will be notified prior to the end of the semester.
(iii) Student is responsible for all tuition and fees associated with the courses.

(4) Student must update immunizations, CPR, drug testing, and background screening according to program policy.

(5) Student must demonstrate competency in previous course(s) as required by the College's nursing program.

Transfer Policy

The transfer policy applies to students desiring to transfer between Alabama Community College System institutions. It does not apply to students wishing to transfer from other institutions that are not a part of the Alabama Community College System.

Criteria for Transfer

1. Must meet minimum admission standards for the nursing program.

2. Must possess a grade of C or better in all nursing program required courses taken at another institution and possess a minimum of a 2.0 cumulative GPA at time of transfer.

3. The Dean/Director of previous nursing program must provide a letter of eligibility for progression in previous nursing program.

4. Must comply with all program policy requirements at the accepting institution.

5. Complete at least 25% of the nursing program required courses for degree /certificate at the accepting institution.

6. Must meet acceptability criteria for placement at clinical agencies for clinical experience.

7. Acceptance of transfer students into nursing programs is limited by the number of faculty and clinical facilities available. Meeting minimal standards does not guarantee acceptance.

Transient Student Policy

The transient policy applies only to students desiring to transfer between Alabama Community College System institutions. It does not apply to students wishing to transfer from other institutions that are not a part of the Alabama Community College System.

Criteria for Transient Status

1. Must meet minimum admission standards for the nursing program.

2. Must possess a grade of C or better in all nursing program required courses taken at another institution and possess a minimum of a 2.0 cumulative GPA.

3. The Dean/Director of previous nursing program must provide a letter of eligibility for progression in previous nursing program.

4. A student enrolled at another institution must secure permission from that institution by applying for admission to the College and a Transient Student Form completed by an official Nursing Program Dean/Director) of the primary institution.

5. Transient students must complete a Transcript Request Form at the end of the term before a transcript will be issued to the primary institution.

6. Must comply with all program policy requirements at the accepting institution.

7. Must meet acceptability criteria for placement at clinical agencies for clinical experience.

8. Acceptance of a transient student into a nursing program is limited by the number of faculty and clinical facilities available. Meeting minimal standards does not guarantee acceptance.

Program Completion

Students completing NUR 112, NUR 113, NUR 114, and NUR 115 and required academic courses will be awarded the Practical Nursing certificate. Students who have completed required academic courses and continue in the program through completion of NUR 211 and NUR 221 will be awarded an Associate Degree in Applied Science. Students are responsible for meeting all the progression and graduation requirements.

PN Progression

Students completing NUR 112, NUR 113, NUR 114, and NUR 115 at an institution that only offers the PN program and who wish to transfer to another institution to complete the ADN degree, must meet the requirement for 25% course completion at college of graduation. Students who cannot meet the 25% course requirement must apply for mobility and take the transition course to meet the 25% course requirement.

Policies Related to Clinical Participation

Because participation in clinical settings is an integral part of the ADN program curriculum, each student is required to comply with all policies and procedures of the contracted clinical agencies. Therefore, each student is expected to uphold the contractual terms designated in these contracts prior to being admitted to a course with a clinical component. Clinical agencies reserve the right to amend a contract and ask for additional requirements to be met as deemed necessary to maintain the safety and welfare of the patient, student, and/or agency employee. Violation of nursing programs or health care agency policies will result in dismissal from the program.

The following is a list of examples of clinical agency contractual policies that must be completed and on file prior to students being allowed to participate in clinical experiences:

Proof that the student has undergone physical examination and is free from disease that may be transmitted to patients, families, and employees. This process includes having the Nursing Program’s Health Form properly completed and signed by a Healthcare Provider, proof of negative TB testing and follow-up, MMR, Varicella, Tetanus, and the Hepatitis B vaccination series. Other immunizations may be required as recommended by clinical sites.
Proof of malpractice insurance coverage in amounts required by the agencies (copy of policy) and evidence that all students purchase malpractice insurance prior to participating in their first clinical experience. The college therefore requires all students to purchase malpractice insurance when registering for the first semester. Malpractice insurance must be kept in force for the designated amount of coverage during the time a student is enrolled in the program.
Agencies recommend students carry health insurance to cover the cost of medical care should a student become sick while at the clinical agency. The school or clinical agency does not provide free or discounted medical care to students participating in clinical experiences.
Proof that students have undergone drug testing as precondition to beginning clinical experiences and those results indicate that the student is drug free.
Proof of current BLS (Basic Life Support) certification at Health Care Provider level. The College accepts only American Heart Association or American Red Cross certification.
Proof that students have been instructed in hospital policies including, but not limited to, issues of confidentiality (HIPAA), OSHA policies and procedures, Fire and Safety procedures, and documentation policies and procedures.
Students are advised to have reliable transportation to arrive at the clinical site on time. Lack of reliable transportation may prohibit the student from maintaining clinical attendance and participation, which may result in failing the program. If a student uses public transportation, please be aware that the clinicals start at 0630 or 0645, and make sure that public transportation that will get the student at least 15 -30 minutes before clinicals start, is available. If the schedules for public transportation do not permit the student to reach the clinical site on time, the student needs to seek alternative transportation.
Criminal background checks are required prior to participation in clinical practice.
Students will follow and comply with relevant policies of all clinical agencies.

Other Program Policies

The intensity of the nursing curriculum and the development of acceptable workplace habits mandate that the nursing program establish departmental policies regarding absences and tardiness, professional and ethical conduct, uniform dress code, and testing. Since nursing is a profession that demands high ethical and professional standards, success in nursing depends on the nurse’s ability to provide safe, effective care while demonstrating acceptable workplace habits. Departmental policies promote the development of acceptable workplace habits and are consistently enforced. Attendance policies are included on each course syllabus and dress code and other policies related to clinical are included in the syllabi of courses with a clinical component.

Professional and Ethical Conduct

The nursing student’s behavior, appearance, and attitude shall reflect respect for and accountability to the nursing profession at all times. Inappropriate conduct in the classroom or clinical setting may result in termination from the nursing program. Students must not represent themselves as nursing students or engage in patient/client care as nursing students except when participating in an assigned, planned learning activity in a practice setting integral to the curriculum.

A student who demonstrates evidence of unethical or inappropriate conduct or unsafe clinical practices will be terminated from the program and will not be eligible for readmission. This includes a student who receives a complaint from or is prohibited from participating in a clinical agency utilized by the program for clinical learning experiences, or who is withdrawn from the clinical agency due to unprofessional or unethical conduct. Some examples of unprofessional unethical conduct include, but are not limited to, the following:

Use of profanity
Dishonesty—either by telling a falsehood or taking something that does not belong to you
Unprofessional verbal and/or physical confrontations
Display of inappropriate physical contact
Failure to follow college, ADN program, and/or clinical agency dress codes and other policies
Not following appropriate channels of command
Unlawful and/or unethical behavior
Breach of confidentiality
Falsifying documents
Unsafe clinical practices
Academic misconduct including plagiarism

Academic Misconduct

It is considered cheating to receive or give unauthorized assistance in any test, assignment or other assessment that is done for course completion requirements. The work done by the student needs to be their own work, and not derived from other sources. If other sources are used by the student in order to complete an assignment, the source needs to be credited. Plagiarizing work done by others, including from online sources, is not permitted.
All assessment and testing material used by the division remains the property of the division and must be returned to the instructor upon completion of the test. Reproduction of testing materials is not permitted.
A student found in violation of the academic misconduct policy will be recommended for dismissal from the program and will not be eligible to re-enroll.

Academic Caution

Students who are making unsatisfactory progress in a unit/course of study are counseled and placed on academic caution status until the end of the unit/course. If by the end of that unit/course, the student’s averaged grade is below 75, he/she must repeat that unit/course of study before program completion.

Examinations and Assessments

Please refer to the individual course syllabi for specific testing policies for each course. If a test or assessment is not taken, the student will not get a chance to repeat the test. The final examination grade will substitute for the first missed test. Any missed test after that will result in a grade of zero for that test.

Comprehensive Assessment

Comprehensive Assessment (CA) examinations are administered for each nursing course. The CA are standardized assessments typically created by an outside agency. The examinations will be online and proctored.

Nursing Dress Code: Student Uniform

The student dress code has been developed to allow the nursing program to consistently put forth a professional appearance. At all times students, whether in a clinical agency on clinical assignments or in any way representing the college, must be in compliance with the standards of attire established by the specific agency or the College. Faculty members of the College have the responsibility to interpret compliance with the dress code and to assure conformance with the standards. Students must wear the official school uniform. No deviations in style or color will be permitted. The nursing instructors will specify the color and style of the uniform. Students will also adhere to guidelines about hair, nails, makeup, body art including eyelashes and other guidelines as specified by the faculty. Please note that guidelines regarding body art, makeup, hair, eyelashes, nails and other enhancements are subject to change based on updates to the health and infection control evidence as well as recommendations of the healthcare facilities.

Nursing Student Drug Screening

As stipulated by health care agencies with which Drake State contracts for clinical experience, students must abide by the policies established by these agencies relative to drug screening and any subsequent revisions to these policies in order to participate in clinical experiences at the agency. This includes annual drug screening and subsequent screenings should the student be perceived to exhibit behaviors indicative of substance abuse during a clinical experience. Fees for all drug and alcohol screenings must be paid by the students.

Pre-Clinical Screening

All currently enrolled students will receive notice of drug screening guidelines prior to the beginning of the clinical laboratory rotation. All other students will receive notice of the drug screening guidelines prior to admission to the nursing program.
All currently enrolled students, and all students accepted for admission into the nursing program will be required to complete a consent form for drug screening as a condition for admission or readmission to the nursing program.
Drug screening will be scheduled and conducted by a drug testing company coordinated by the Health Sciences Division. A fee will be assessed.
Failure to complete the drug and alcohol screening as required by clinical agencies will prohibit the student from completing the clinical component of required nursing courses.
Results of drug screening will be sent to the chairperson of the Health Sciences Division. The student will, whenever reasonably possible, be informed of the screening results by the chairperson of the Health Sciences Division within seven (7) working days of the chairperson receiving the results.
A positive drug screening result will prohibit the student from completing the clinical component of required nursing courses. A student must have a negative drug screening test on file to complete the courses.
Students must list all medications currently being taken. The Collector will explain the collection procedure and the Chain of Custody form. The student will be provided with a sealed collection container.
Students must remove unnecessary outer garments (coats, sweaters, etc.) and remove items from pockets when entering the collection site.
The Collector will collect a monitored urine specimen.
In the presence of the student, the Collector will seal the urine specimen with a tamper-proof security seal and affix an identification label with a code number.
The student will verify the information on the identification label, initial the security seal, and read and sign the Chain of Custody Form and give the student the appropriate copy.
The Collector will sign the Chain of Custody Form and give the student the appropriate copy.
The Collector will forward the sealed urine specimen and Chain of Custody form to the appropriate agency. Urine samples will be screened for the following (other screens may apply):
1. D-Methamphetamine
2. Barbiturates
3. Benzodiazepines
4. Cocaine
5. Marijuana
6. Methaqualone
7. Opiates
8. Methadone
9. Oxycontin
10. Ecstasy
11. Codeine
12. Morphine
13. Hydrocodone
14. Hydromorphone
15. Oxycodone
16. Any other substance as recommended by healthcare agencies

Confidentiality

The Chairperson of the Health Sciences Division will receive all test results. Confidentiality of the results will be maintained with only the Chair or designee of the Chair and the student having access to the results with the exception of legal actions which require access to the results.

Readmission

To be considered for readmission, students who withdraw, or are withdrawn from the nursing program due to (1) a positive drug screen, or (2) the inability of a student to successfully participate or complete the required drug and alcohol screening must:

Submit a letter from a treatment provider approved by the nursing program verifying completion of an appropriate substance abuse treatment program, and;
Submit to an unannounced drug screen at the student’s expense prior to readmission.
A positive screen at this time will result in ineligibility for readmission.

Drug screening programs suggested or required by the Alabama Board of Nursing, Drake State, and/or various institutions with which the college contracts, may vary from time to time in any or all of their aspects. Students will be required to comply with screening which will satisfy any program or requirement established by the Alabama Board of Nursing or any health care facility with whom the college contracts for clinical experience, whether pre-clinical drug screening, random drug screening, or incident related screening.

Some of the classes of drugs for which screening will be conducted are available by prescription from health care practitioners. Prescription drugs prescribed to a student by an appropriate health care practitioner may nevertheless be subject to abuse and may give rise to reasonable suspicion testing or incident testing. The fact that student has a prescription for one or more of the classes of drugs which are legally prescribed by a health care practitioner does not necessarily, in and of itself, excuse the student from the effect of this policy.

Background Check for Nursing Students

As stipulated within clinical contracts, students must conform to the rules, policies, and procedures of the clinical affiliates, which include background checks.

Guidelines

Background checks will be conducted according to the following guidelines:

Nursing students must sign the appropriate consent(s) prior to the background check. A copy of the signed consent(s) will be maintained as indicated.
The background checks will be scheduled and conducted by a designated company determined by the College. The designated company will be provided with a copy of the policy. The student will be responsible for the cost of the background check. Results of the background check will be sent to the Health Sciences Division Chair.
If a student fails to submit to the background check at the designated time, the student should contact the Health Sciences Division Chair in order to proceed with the background check. If the student fails to submit to the background check as delineated, the student will be administratively withdrawn from the program.
The background check may include, but is not limited to:
I. Criminal and Civil History/Records which reveal felony and misdemeanor, arrests and convictions, and pending cases usually including the date, nature of the offense, sentencing date, disposition, and current status.
II. Sex Offender which includes a search of the state or county repository for known sexual offenders.
III. Social Security Number Trace which is a verification that the number provided by the individual was issued by the Social Security Administration and is not listed in the files of the deceased.
IV. Office of the Inspector General (OIG) which identifies those individuals who have committed offenses deeming them ineligible to care for patients receiving Medicare benefits.
V. Employment and Education Verification
I. Personal References/Interviews
II. Any Other Public Record
The student will be informed of the results of significant findings in the background check. A significant finding in a background check is a background check that reveals information that may prohibit that person from participating in clinical supervision in any healthcare facility contracted by the college to provide clinical experience for students of the nursing program, according to that facility’s policy.
If any clinical agency refuses to allow a student to attend clinicals on the basis of their background check results, that student will be terminated from the nursing program. That student will not be eligible to re-enter the nursing program.
The student will be provided with a copy of background check results, if significant. Any dispute of the accuracy of the background check must be submitted in writing to the Health Sciences Division office within seven (7) days of notification of receipt of the results.
Background checks which could render a student ineligible to participate in clinical learning experiences include, but are not limited to, certain convictions or criminal charges which could jeopardize the health and safety of patients and sanctions or debarment. Felony or repeated misdemeanor activity within the past seven (7) years and Office of the Inspector General violations will normally prohibit the obtainment of clinical learning experiences with clinical affiliate(s), but each significant finding in the background check will be reviewed individually.

Confidentiality

The Health Sciences Division Chair will review the background check results. Confidentiality of the results will be maintained with only the Chair or designee of the Chair and the student having access to the results with the exception of legal actions which require access to the results.