Practical Nursing Diploma (D45660)

Program Description

The Practical Nursing curriculum provides knowledge and skills to integrate safety and quality into nursing care to meet the needs of the holistic individual which impact health, quality of life, and achievement of potential.  Course work includes and builds upon the domains of healthcare, nursing practice, and the holistic individual. Content emphasizes safe, individualized nursing care and participation in the interdisciplinary team while employing evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and informatics.  Graduates are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) which is required for practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Employment opportunities include hospitals, rehabilitation/long term care/home health facilities, clinics, and physicians’ offices.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program should be able to:

• Practice professional nursing behaviors incorporating personal responsibility and accountability for continued competence.
• Communicate effectively with individuals, significant support person(s), and members of the interdisciplinary healthcare team.
• Integrate knowledge of the holistic needs of the individual to provide an individual centered assessment
• Incorporate informatics to formulate evidence-based clinical judgements and management decisions
• Implement caring interventions incorporating documented best practices for individuals in diverse settings.
• Incorporate teaching and learning principles in the reinforcement of the education plan developed by the RN
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary healthcare team to advocate for positive individual and organizational outcomes.
• Manage healthcare for the individual using cost effective nursing strategies, quality improvement processes, and current technologies.

• Prioritize data collection findings and client-centered nursing interventions relevant to clinical decision making.

 

ADMISSION PROCEDURE AND REQUIREMENTS

 

Due to limited enrollment, admission to the Practical Nursing diploma program is competitive. In addition to the Alamance Community College admission requirements, the following are minimum requirements for admission to the Practical Nursing Program.

 

STEP 1 ‐ ENROLLMENT PROCESS:

• Review the online Nursing Information presentation and complete the associated quiz 

• Request official transcripts for high school diploma (or GED) and completed college courses (if applicable)

• Meet minimum proficiency for Reading, English, and Mathematics

• Schedule an appointment with Health Sciences Advisor 

 

STEP 2 ‐ ADMISSION CONSIDERATION FOR NURSING:

For purposes of admission into the Practical Nursing Program, students apply to compete for a seat in the program. The courses listed below are the courses that earn point value. For BIO 163, students are limited to only 3 attempts within 5 years of the clinical application deadline, this includes “WP’s” as well as ‘D’s’ and ‘F’s’. 

For each of the classes listed below, points are awarded based on the final grade earned (“C” or better). [A = 4 quality points, B = 3 quality points, C = Total “1” point value]

• BIO 163 - Basic Anatomy & Physiology

• ENG 111 - Writing and Inquiry

• MAT 110 - Math Measurement & Literacy

• PSY 150 - General Psychology

 

ATI TEAS EXAM SCORE:

The ATI TEAS exam must be completed and required score documentation submitted by the application deadline. Official scores may not be more than two years old. The exam may be taken up to two times per calendar year with the highest score being accepted.

 

Total ATI TEAS Score	Points Awarded
90-100	40
80-89	30
70-79	20
60-69	10
0-59	0

 

ADDITIONAL POINTS:

You may only submit certifications from the list below for additional points. It must be from an approved program. Documentation must be provided with the application. 

• EMT, CNA II, Certified/Registered Medical Assistant = 5 points  

• Veteran with Combat Medic, Corpsmen training, or equivalent military medical training; Paramedic = 10 points

 

CNA CERTIFICATION:

All applicants must submit transcripts demonstrating that they have completed a Nurse Aide I program with clinical hours that is accredited and approved through the NC Department of Health & Human Services (or equivalent if completed out-of-state) clinical hours. Applicants must also be registered on the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry before beginning NUR 101. Out-of-state registries will be evaluated by the Department Head of Nursing for approval before beginning NUR 101. 
 

ACADEMIC PROGRESSION

 

PROGRESSION REEQUIREMENTS

Alamance Community College is committed to the success of students. To progress in the Nursing program, the student is required to do the following:

 

1. Maintain an overall quality grade point average of 2.0 or higher

2. Attain a grade of 80% (“B”) or higher in all Nursing (NUR) courses.

3. Demonstrate satisfactory completion in the clinical setting.

4. Pass any general education course required by the Nursing program with a grade of 70% (“C”) or better.

 

All clinical and simulation hours must be completed for course progression. Excused and unexcused absences from clinical and simulation must be made up. Missed clinical/simulation hours will be rescheduled with the guidance of the course faculty member, Clinical Coordinator and Department Head. If a student is unable to make up missed clinical/simulation time during the current semester, they will be granted a grade of “incomplete”. They will be required to complete the required hours during the subsequent semester within a prescribed period (determined by the course faculty member and/or Nursing Department Head). Failure to complete the requirements to resolve the “incomplete” will result in failing the course (grade of “F”). Please refer to the readmission policy if a student does not meet the above criteria for progression in the Nursing program. 

 

GRADING SCALE

The grading scale utilized in the PN program is as follows:

 

A = 90-100

B = 80-89

C = 70-79

D = 60-69

F = below 60

WP = Withdraw Passing (no credit)

Satisfactory = Objectives are met (i.e., clinical)

Unsatisfactory = Objectives are unmet (i.e., clinical)

 

READMISSION

 

Students who fail to progress within the Practical Nursing program may apply for readmission to the program, however space within the program is limited, and readmission is not guaranteed. Before initiating the readmission process, please determine if you are eligible or not.

 

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

• Students who have earned a “C”, “D” or “WP” in a Nursing (NUR) course for the first time are eligible to seek readmission.

• Students who earn a “C”, “D” or “WP” in NUR 101 will need to re-apply for the program and follow the current admission criteria.

• Students seeking readmission within 24 months since leaving the Practical Nursing program

• Must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher to return to the program

 

WHO IS INELIGIBLE?

• Students who have earned a grade of “F” in any Nursing (NUR) course are not eligible to seek readmission to the Practical Nursing program

• Students separated from the Practical Nursing program longer than 24 months are ineligible to seek readmission. Instead, these students will need to reapply to start the program over in the first nursing course (NUR 101) and must follow the current admission criteria.

• Students who earn a grade of “C”, “D” or “WP” in any two (2) Nursing (NUR) courses are ineligible to seek readmission

• Students seeking admission to the Practical Nursing program for a third time.

 

PROCESS

Readmission applicants are ranked using a point system similar to the admission process. Applicants will submit the following:

• Readmission Application form with a copy of all transcripts for courses transferred into Alamance Community College

• Letter from employer if actively working as a CNA, EMT, or Paramedic

• Continuous enrollment at ACC if general education courses are needed (excluding the summer semester). This will be waived if all general education courses for the Practical Nursing program have been completed.

• A letter requesting readmission submitted to the Admissions Counselor for Health Science Programs Student Success/Admissions and the Nursing Department Head. The letter must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the semester when readmission is desired. The letter will include:

• Student ID number and contact information (e-mail address and phone number).

• Self-reflect and identify the specific reasons, challenges, or barriers that you believe caused you to be unsuccessful in the Nursing course

• Explain how the above issues have been resolved

• Identify a specific and realistic plan for ensuring your future success

 

SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS

Those students granted readmission to the Practical Nursing program will receive a letter and/or email from ACC informing them of the decision. Students will need to attend a readmission information session with the Nursing Department Head. Returning students must provide updated immunization records, American Heart Association or American Red Cross Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS) certification, criminal background check, and a drug screen.

 

TRANSFER STUDENTS

 

APPLICATION PROCESS FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS

1. The student seeking transfer must file an application in the ACC Admissions Office. The ACC application must indicate that this is a transfer request and the semester and year in which the student wishes to transfer. The student must apply and enter within two years of leaving the previous educational institution.

2. The student requesting transfer must meet the College and Practical Nursing program admission requirements for the college year into which he/she transfers.

3. The student must have been in good standing at the time the individual left the previous nursing program and must provide a written recommendation from the Dean/Department Chair of the previous nursing program.

4. The student must have a grade point average of at least 2.0 in all academic work completed.

5. The individual must meet with the Nursing Program Director who will review course outlines from the nursing program in which the student was previously enrolled. This review will determine the student’s potential placement into the ACC nursing program. This review must occur no later than three months prior to the beginning of the desired semester of entry.

6. Selection for transfer will be based on date of application, if nursing courses transferring will fit into placement of ACC nursing program, available clinical space, and meeting of the above criteria.

7. The individual must submit a completed Student Medical Form which is required for Human Services Programs, documentation of current CPR certification (American Heart Association),

8. Complete a criminal background check and drug screen (student is responsible for fee).

9. To graduate from ACC, the student must have earned at least 50% of the required hours in the nursing program at ACC and taken at least 25% of the major course work required in the nursing program at ACC. Within the Practical Nursing program, student may transfer three of the four general education courses, and only NUR 101 from the Practical Nursing courses. These courses must have been taken no more than two years prior to enrollment at ACC with a grade of C or better for general education courses, and a grade of B or higher for NUR 101.

 

IF TRANSFERRING FROM ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING TO PRACTICAL NURSING

1. Students must comply with the above process.

2. Successful completion of NUR 101 (Intro to Health Concepts) with a grade of B or higher will receive transfer equivalency credit for NUR 101 (Practical Nursing I).

3. Successful completion of both BIO 168 (Anatomy & Physiology I) and BIO 169 (Anatomy & Physiology II) with grades of C or higher will receive transfer equivalency credit for BIO 163 (Basic Anatomy & Physiology).

 

PHYSICAL EXAM

Physical health is defined as being free of contagious disease and/or physical conditions that may prevent a student from performing the essential functions of the program. Assessment of the physical health of the applicant is made using a physical examination performed by the applicant’s healthcare provider. This is to be completed at the student’s expense and uploaded to ViewPoint Screening prior to the first day of the program. Non-compliance will prevent the student from attending clinical, and any missed time will need to be made up.

IMMUNIZATION RECORD

A variety of immunizations are required by affiliated clinical agencies and the state of North Carolina. These immunizations must be completed and documented prior to the start of the program and remain current until graduation. A student who does not satisfactorily meet course requirements because of health conditions will not be allowed to continue in the program at that time. Proof of immunization must be uploaded by the student to ViewPoint Screening. The following immunizations are required upon admission:

• Two (2) MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) or a titer indicating immunity

• Two (2) Varicella (Chickenpox) or a titer indicating immunity

• Hepatitis-B series or a titer indicating immunity (or signed waiver)

• Flu vaccine (only during Flu season; typically October-April) (or signed waiver)

• Tuberculosis (TB) clearance within 3 months prior to the first day of the semester (one of the following):

• QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT)

• T-Spot

• Chest x-ray results within the last five (5) years if previously tested positive for TB. 

Special Note: TB skin tests (PPD or Mantoux) are not accepted.
 

EVALUATION OF PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH

PHYSICAL HEALTH

Physical health is defined as being free of contagious disease and/or physical conditions that may prevent a student from performing the essential functions of the program. Assessment of the physical health of the applicant is made using a physical examination performed by the applicant’s healthcare provider. A variety of immunizations is required by associated clinical agencies and the state of North Carolina. These immunizations must be completed and documented prior to the start of the program and remain current until graduation. A student who does not satisfactorily meet course requirements because of health conditions will not be allowed to continue in the program at that time.

EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Emotional health is defined as reacting appropriately to stressful situations, withstanding everyday environmental stresses with little difficulty, using healthy coping mechanisms, and understanding one’s own ability to cope with stressful situations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & TECHNICAL STANDARDS

PURPOSE STATEMENT:

The following technical standards represent the essential nonacademic requirements of the Nursing (NUR) Program that a student must master to successfully participate in the program and become employable. In adopting these standards, the Nursing Program is mindful of the patient’s right to safe and quality health care by students. The Nursing student must be able to apply the knowledge and skills necessary to function in a broad variety of clinical situations while providing the spectrum of nurse aide interventions. These standards do reflect what may be required for employment of the graduate. To verify the students’ ability to perform these essential functions, students may be required to demonstrate the technical standards/essential functions below.

Meeting these technical standards does not guarantee employment in this field upon graduation. Ability to meet the program’s technical standards does not guarantee a student’s eligibility for any licensure, certification exam, or successful completion of the program.

 

Standard	Definition of Standard	Example(s) of Technical Standard
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills	Ability to collect, interpret, integrate, and synthesize information to make decisions and develop a plan of care.	Read and comprehend relevant information in textbooks, professional literature Acquire information from written documents and computer-information systems Identify cause/effect relationships Identify patient problems and develop appropriate patient goals and nursing interventions Know when to use universal precautions Use effective teaching, learning and test taking skills
Interpersonal Skills	Ability to interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds.	Establishes relationships with patients and peers
Coping Skills	Ability to function under stress and adapt to changing environments inherent in the clinical practice of nursing.	Manage academic schedules and deadlines Cope with psychosocial issues involving catastrophic illness, disability, and death Respond appropriately to emergencies
Communication Skills	Ability to communicate effectively in English using verbal, nonverbal and written formats with faculty, patients, families, other healthcare team members and peers.	Perform patient teaching, answer questions posed by patient, family members, physicians, other healthcare team members Document relevant patient information (manual or electronically) using correct terminology and spelling Interpret doctor’s orders Record patient responses to treatments Demonstrate active listening skills
Mobility and Motor Skills	Possess manual dexterity and motor skills to perform safe and effective nursing skills.	Demonstrate adequate coordination, correct technique, organization, dexterity, and speed.  Stand for long periods Perform nursing procedures such as giving a bed bath, making an occupied or unoccupied bed, positioning, and transferring patients safely Use of patient equipment Administer CPR Administer injections Administer an intravenous (IV) Perform venipuncture Insert indwelling urinary catheters  Obtain blood pressure measurements
Auditory Skills	Hearing ability to monitor and assess health needs.	Hear equipment/emergency alarms, call bell Listen to heart, lung, and blood pressure sounds Hear a call for help
Visual Skills	Visual ability to monitor and assess patient care needs.	Observe patient responses to treatment Detect changes in skin Read sphygmomanometer
Tactile Skills	Sense of touch sufficient to perform physical assessments.	Palpate a pulse Check skin temperature and turgor Check skin contours
Behavioral/ Emotional	Ability to demonstrate professional behavior.	Demonstrate flexibility, initiative, integrity, and cooperation Accept responsibility, accountability, and ownership for own actions as an emotionally mature individual Demonstrate respect for the patient, family, and healthcare team members Present professional appearance Accept criticism and respond by appropriate modifications
Professionalism/ Professional Boundaries	A skill or behavior that shows consideration and respect for others.	While maintaining safety:  Demonstrates commitment and confidence Demonstrates a sense of responsibility and dependability

 

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

Affiliated clinical agencies with whom the College has contracted to provide clinical experiences require all students admitted into the Nursing Program to submit to a criminal background check prior to participation in clinical experiences at the site. The criminal background check will be based on Social Security number (assuring national review) and must include a check for sexual predator. Furthermore, the student is made aware that information obtained from the screening is forwarded to clinical agencies if discrepancies are found on the record. Failure to provide complete and accurate information requested for a criminal background check may be grounds for dismissal from the nursing program. Students are responsible for the cost of the criminal background check.

• Applicants should be aware that a student must be able to enter and/or remain in all clinical agencies to progress within the program. If a clinical site denies a student placement in the facility, the student would be unable to complete the required clinical component of the course. The student will be withdrawn from all NUR courses and will not be allowed to progress in the program.

• The criminal background check must be completed by the specified date. Failure to complete the process as specified will jeopardize continuation in the nursing program.

• Applicants to the nursing programs should be aware that if they have pled guilty to or been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor (other than a minor traffic violation), the NC Board of Nursing may restrict or deny licensure. The NC Board of Nursing requires criminal history checks for each person applying for licensure to practice nursing in the state of North Carolina. Applicants will be charged a fee to offset the cost of the background check.

DRUG SCREENING

Affiliated clinical agencies with whom the College has contracted to provide clinical experiences require all students admitted into the Nursing Program to submit to urine drug screening prior to participation in clinical experiences at the site. 

Students with a positive result on their urine drug screen will need to provide documentation of the medical necessity of the related drug. It is at the discretion of the clinical facility if the student will be allowed to enter their premises for clinical. Failure to submit supporting documentation will result in dismissal from the program.

Students who exhibit behaviors that may indicate possible impairment by drugs and/or alcohol will need to submit to drug testing at their expense. Students who fail to submit to drug testing will be dismissed from the program.

 

PROGRAM COSTS

 

The Practical Nursing curriculum has additional costs associated with it. Students who enroll in this program are required to pay for such items as certification exams, achievement tests, uniforms, supplies, and the like. Many of these are required as part of the curriculum, but are not provided by the College. Additional expenses required for this program are listed below with approximate costs.

 

Note: All expenses are subject to change.  These are approximate amounts.

Uniforms and personal nursing equipment (stethoscope, scissors, pen light) $250.00 Course Fees (includes NCLEX-PN fee) $650.00 Online achievement testing (ATI) $1400.00 Vaccinations and required physical $300.00 Criminal background check and drug screen $65.00 Basic Life Support Provider Certification $35.00 Liability insurance $16.00 NC Board of Nursing licensure $150.00