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Transcript of W LF PACK NURSINGbedfordghsa.sharpschool.net/UserFiles/Servers/Server_20910440/Fil… · Emphasis...
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W LF PACK
NURSING
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PROGRAM HANDBOOK Revisions of the handbook are completed periodically. Any change in policy will be distributed.
Table of Contents
Statement of Philosophy, Mission, and Objectives 4-7
Program Description 8-9
Curriculum & Course Description 9-18
Faculty Roster 19
Educational Facilities 20
Fees and Expenses 20-24
Policies and Procedures:
1. Admission/Readmission/Transfer 24-26
2. Criminal background Checks 26
3. Essential Performance Standards 27-30
4. Grading and Progression 31-36
5. Promotion, Retention, and Graduation 36-38
6. Testing 38-40
7. Code of Conduct 40-43
8. Dismissal 43-45
9. Attendance 45-48
10. School Calendar 48
11. Dress Code 49-50
12. Student Health 51
13. Social Media Statement 52
14. Cell Phone 52-53
15. Driving 53-54
16. Grievance Policy 55
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Student Activities and Services 56-57
Employment 57
Statement of Understanding 58-59
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Est. Circa 1966 Equal educational opportunities shall be available for all students, without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, ancestry, or marital or parental status. Educational programs shall be designed to meet the varying needs of all students. No student, on the basis of sex or gender, shall be denied equal access to programs, activities, services, or benefits or be limited in the exercise of any right, privilege or advantage or be denied equal access to educational and extracurricular programs and activities. To view a current list of compliance officers and how they can be reached, visit the Bedford County Public Schools website at http://www.bedford.k12.va.us.
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Bedford County School of Practical Nursing
Statement of Philosophy
The administration and faculty of the Bedford County School of Practical Nursing believe
that:
Practical nursing is an integral part of all nursing. Practical nurses
work in concerted effort with other health professions in the prevention of illness,
improvement of health, rehabilitation, and care of the sick.
Nursing is both an art and a science. The practical student should be
educated in the basics of nursing in a meaningful, sequential and individualized
manner. Each unit of learning builds on the previous one, and each year builds on
prior knowledge. Because of this, attendance and preparation for class are vital to
effective learning and progression in the program.
Learning is motivated by concern for the individual student and
developed through guidance and experience in the classroom and clinical situations.
Students learn best in an atmosphere of respect for all class members and faculty.
Practical nursing education prepares the student to enter the workforce
with entry level skills and with the knowledge to pass the NCLEX-PN. It is an ever-
changing, continuous process. Practical nursing is an expanding vocation in which
the individual is helped to recognize the need for continued, self-directed education
which will enable him/her to better care for the sick and promote wellness.
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Mission Statement Bedford School of practical nursing has adopted its clinical partner CENTRA-Bedford Memorial Hospital’s
mission and values as the core values of the program.
OUR MISSION: Excellent care for life.
VALUES: Integrity and Respect, Drive for Excellence, Teamwork
All of our student nurses will pursue excellence in attainment of knowledge and delivery of nursing practice.
Objectives
Student Behavioral Objectives
1. To effect an improvement in self-care based on an understanding of positive health
maintenance and disease prevention.
2. To increase understanding of government and community health agencies and their daily work
in disease prevention and promotion of health to increase familiarity with services available in the
community.
3. To develop a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology, applied principles of good
nutrition, care of the obstetrical patient, care of the newborn, care of the pediatric patient, care of the
medical patient, care of the surgical patient, and care of the mental health of the patient, care of the
geriatric patient, math of drugs and dosages, and the safe administration of medication.
4. To develop an understanding of principles behind nursing procedures and to develop the
ability to safely and skillfully carry them out.
5. To develop the ability to make accurate patient observations, to detect the symptoms of
disease or disease crisis, and to report these observations or refer them to the physician.
6. To develop the ability to provide patient teaching and health maintenance for patients and
others in the community.
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7. To learn to conduct oneself in a professional manner, to be cognizant of professional
organizations and to serve and support these organizations.
CLINICAL EXPERIENCE/FACULTY OBJECTIVES
1. To give guidance and support to the student in the clinical area as the student:
A. Endeavors to develop psychological and technical skills which will enable the student
to identify nursing problems and plan nursing care.
B. Acts as an assistant to the professional registered nurse in more complex nursing
situations.
2. To select learning experiences:
A. Which are according to the learning needs of the individual student.
B. Which will encourage each student to develop the behavior identified in the objectives
of the program.
C. Which will enable the clinical instructor(s) to evaluate the changes in behavior of the
student.
D. Which will offer experiences in various nursing settings.
3. To hold clinical conferences with each student daily after clinical experiences and
conduct evaluation conferences as needed:
A. Which is a joint activity of the instructors and students.
B. Which are conducive to self -evaluation by the student.
C. Which enables the student to identify own strengths and weaknesses and
estimate their level of achievement.
D. Which provides an opportunity for the student to participate in
planning experiences that will help to reach the desired objectives of the
clinical phase of the program.
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Curriculum Objectives
The curriculum objectives are designed to provide instruction consistent with the law governing the practice of
nursing. The curriculum is designed to facilitate each student in developing the ability to:
● Understand the concepts of anatomy and physiology in the provision of client care.
● Assist clients in attaining and maintaining physical and mental health throughout the life span in a
variety of clinical settings.
● Perform nursing procedures skillfully using application of essential concepts and principles.
● Recognize and apply the concepts of the nursing process using critical thinking to determine when
nursing activity/intervention is required as well as recognition of alterations in client condition.
● Develop decision making skills using the nursing process to prioritize, implement and delegate
appropriate client care.
● Provide client care to encompass each client’s cultural and ethnic beliefs.
● Provide client care within legal parameters related to patient rights, professional responsibility, and
delegation to assistive or unlicensed personnel.
● Function within an interdisciplinary team using professional communication techniques and effective
conflict resolution.
● Carry out effective client education regarding the prevention of illness and management of existing
illness for individuals, families and specific groups.
● Recognize child and elder abuse. Report suspected abuse situations to appropriate community
agencies.
● Acquire the knowledge to successfully prepare for and pass the NCLEX-PN.
Revised: August 2015
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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION Bedford County School of Practical Nursing is a program celebrating 54 years in the Bedford community.
The Bedford County Public School (BCPS) system’s program is sponsored by Bedford Science and
Technology Center and its Governor's Health Science Academy. It is an eighteen month program which
follows BCPS system’s academic school year calendar. The program is approved by the Virginia Department
of Health Professions Board of Nursing and the Division of Career and Technical Education with the Virginia
Department of Education. As a public school based program, Bedford School of Practical Nursing does not
currently hold accreditation with Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
NCLEX Pass rate of First Time Takers and graduate numbers
Year Number Graduating Annual Pass Rate in %
2012 6 100
2013 13 100
2014 8 80
2015 5 71.43
2016 11 78.57
2017 12 70
2018 12 86.7
RELATIONSHIP OF PHILOSOPHY AND CURRICULUM PLAN
The curriculum is designed to help the student to acquire knowledge and skills necessary to function as a
beginning practitioner of practical nursing.
Both classroom and practical experiences are planned to assist the student in acquiring the basic knowledge
and skills needed to function as a graduate practical nurse.
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Preclinical, the student is taught in a meaningful, sequential and individualized manner including human anatomy
and physiology, nursing fundamentals, and pharmacology and administration of medication. Each student is
provided an opportunity to practice each nursing skills under supervision in the laboratory situation and/or in
the patient care observation. Practical experience begins early in the training in order to provide meaning to
the experiences.
Since nursing is both an art and a science, the student is trained to do work with skill and to use of mind in
exploring ways to improve nursing care and pursuing evidence based nursing practice.
Clinical subjects prepare the nursing student to function in the areas across all life spans including, maternal-
child care, Obstetrics, pediatrics, medical/surgical nursing, mental health nursing, geriatrics, and related
pharmacology. The student gains experience in the hospital on various nursing units: medical/surgical,
obstetrics, intensive care, skilled nursing units, surgical suite, emergency department, pediatrics and family
practice clinic. There are observational experiences upon special requests for student’s expressing an area of
interest including areas of potential employment.
The student is given varied opportunities to view and practice a wide range of nursing activities during field
trips, scheduled rotations and through contracting agencies.
The individual student's needs are considered at all times so that the student remains enthusiastic, cooperative
and engaged.
After completion of an eighteen month program, a good beginning practitioner of practical nursing is graduated.
Curriculum Description Course Descriptions
Practical Nursing I Course Descriptions Human Anatomy and Physiology (17-18 weeks)
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PN I: ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF THE HUMAN BODY is a course designed to present the structure
and function of the human body beginning with cells, tissues, organs, and systems. The course will include
normal structure and function as well as some more common changes due to disease and aging. This course
supplies students with a background for recognition of simple nursing problems in clinical experiences.
Nursing Fundamental Courses: I (6-7 weeks)
PN I: PERSONAL AND VOCATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS concepts are designed to direct the
Student in effective study skills, time management and to familiarize them with materials and methods which
will be an aide to learning.
It includes an introduction to the physical facilities and organizational pattern of the hospital and/or school.
Emphasis is placed on maintaining personal health, grooming, and professional dress and the professional
responsibility and role of the practical and professional nurse. These concepts are designed to introduce the
practical nursing student with the function of local, state, national, and international health agencies. The role
of the practical nurse in the community and related job opportunities are explored. The role of the Board of
Nursing and its duties are discussed including regulations related to their role in nursing.
The history of nursing and nursing education is explored and the significant changes in nursing in the twenty-
first century. The purpose, role and responsibilities of the practical nurse in the health care system are explored.
Ethical and legal aspects are included with the aim of developing awareness of the privileges, obligations and
responsibilities of the nursing profession including Professional boundaries and appropriate use of electronic
technology and social media. Concepts related to the nurse’s role in maintaining client rights and privacy and
confidentiality and freedom from abuse for clients throughout the life cycle.
PN I: COMMUNICATION AND THE NURSING PROCESS course concepts introduce the nursing process as
a method of problem solving and decision making. These concepts are designed to assist in the development
of methods in critical thinking related to the application of this process in assessment, nursing diagnosis,
planning, implementation and evaluation. This course is designed to provide the student with the knowledge
to communicate effectively with patients, families, and the interdisciplinary healthcare team members and
promote decision making skills to identify client needs and safely deliver client care. Conflict resolution skills
are introduced and developed in this course.
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Nursing Fundamental Courses: II
(8-9 Weeks)
PN I: NURSING ARTS is a course designed to instruct the student in the development of nursing skills and
procedures from basic patient care developing to advanced skills under the practical nursing scope of practice.
Emphasis is placed on delivering safe and effective client care using evidence based methodology. The areas
of study include infection control, safety, body mechanics, patient mobility, hygiene and care of the patient’s
environment, cardiac care, respiratory care, urinary care, heat/cold therapy, eye/ear care, feeding, elimination,
intravenous therapy, physical assessment, documentation, and specimen collection. Practical experience is
obtained in the clinical laboratory. Skills sheets will begin to be maintained in this course.
Nursing Fundamental Courses: III (5-6 weeks)
PN I: CULTURAL CONCEPTS and HUMAN DEVELOPMENT course concepts in these three aspects of human
development, Psychosocial, and Cultural diversity are designed to acquaint the practical nursing student with
the cultural and ethnic considerations in client-centered care in the areas of cultural differences, values and
preferences. Promotion of healthy lifestyles for client populations and a safe client environment are developed
and harnessed through this cultural awareness and sensitivity.
The student will be introduced to human development across the lifespan through infancy to adulthood and the
facets of development; Physical, cognitive, and psychosocial. The concepts of loss, grief, and the dying patient
are explored and the role of hospice/palliative care versus curative care is discussed. Advanced directives,
living wills, and do not resuscitate options are discussed.
PN I: NUTRITION course concepts are designed to provide the student with a background of information in
good nutritional practices. The student will be introduced to various dietary approaches including assisted
feeding and to the management of diseases in the study of Diet Therapy. Emphasis is placed on applied
nutritional practices and skills in the clinical laboratory will be developed. The importance of fluid and
electrolyte balance and the effects of imbalances are explored.
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PN I: GERIATRIC NURSING concepts are designed to provide the student with knowledge and understanding
of the normal process of aging in human development. This course supplies the student with the background
for recognition of the special nursing problems and the appropriate nursing care of the older adult. Loss, grief,
dying and death are revisited in relation to geriatric nursing. Advanced directives, living wills, and do not
resuscitate are reviewed.
PRACTICAL NURSING II: Clinical Phase Courses
PN II: PHARMACOLOGY AND ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONS is a course designed to assist the
student to obtain the knowledge and develop the understanding of drug standards, drug controls, drug reference,
pharmacodynamics, fundamentals of medication therapy, measurement and dosage calculations, responsibilities
of medication administration, administering medications orally, by injection, intravenously, etc., and basic math
review.
PN II: INTRODUCTION TO MEDICAL SURGICAL NURSING is a course designed to assist the student in
learning basic knowledge necessary to give care to the medical or surgical patient. It includes treatment and
care of patients having surgery, patients with cancer, pain management, infection prevention, first
aid/emergency nursing. Introduction to laboratory tests and pathology is included but will be covered in greater
detail in M/S I and II. In this course the issue of the rising opioid crisis will be addressed and effects on
patient and community at large. The student will explore the rising issues of nurse professional substance
abuse and resources to help combat this national trend.
PN II: MENTAL HEALTH NURSING is a course designed to assist the student to obtain the knowledge and
develop an understanding of basic principles of mental health, normal and abnormal behaviors, crisis
intervention, addictive/dependent behaviors, psychosocial disorder and legal aspects specific to mental health
care.
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PN II: MEDICAL SURGICAL I AND II is designed to assist the practical nursing student to obtain the knowledge
and develop the understanding and skills necessary to provide effective nursing care to selected clients with
medical and surgical conditions through planned classroom instruction, clinical references, field trips and
supervised clinical practice. Pertinent information relating to diet therapy, drug therapy, rehabilitation, and
mental health in the care of selected clients is an integral part of the course. The course is built on the
concepts learned in the pre-clinical areas of study of anatomy and physiology, nursing arts, nutrition, community
health, personal and vocational relationships, communication, critical thinking, the nursing process and geriatrics.
Diseases and/or disorders of each system of the body are correlated with the basic concepts taught in the
pre-clinical portion of the course. The following body systems are included: cardiovascular, respiratory,
gastrointestinal/hepatic, endocrine, integumentary, immune/HIV, reproductive, urinary, neurological,
musculoskeletal, blood/lymph and vision/hearing.
Learning experiences are selected, in so far as possible, to relate to the current instruction in the classroom.
Clinical experiences and conferences are planned around the needs of assigned clients. Observational learning
experiences are provided where possible in the ancillary departments of the hospital and health care community.
These experiences provide an opportunity for the student to function within the scope of his/her abilities related
to nursing knowledge and legal boundaries and building of nursing leadership skills.
PN II: OBSTETRICS NURSING concerns itself with the patient and the care she receives in all phases of
childbearing, and the welfare of the infant. The course includes care of the uncomplicated patient as well as
the mother or baby who experiences difficulties. Health promotion before and during pregnancy is emphasized.
Labor, delivery, and postpartum phases are each explored in-depth. Care of the high-risk mother, newborn,
and families with special needs are covered.
PN II: PEDIATRIC NURSING includes an introduction of the student to related terms, programs, and laws
affecting pediatrics. It reviews the normal growth and development and identifies the time span of each age
group. The course describes the child’s reaction to illness, to the nurse and hospitalization. It includes
diagnostic tests, nursing procedures, and treatments adapted to the child. The disease conditions of childhood
are described in relation to the body systems. The course includes material related care of the infant (full-
term and premature), accidents, communicable diseases, and mental or cognitive disorders. The pediatric
nursing course ends with the adolescent and their problems.
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PN II: LEADERSHIP IN NURSING consists mainly of a 100 hour clinical internship at a partnering clinical site
with a LPN or RN mentor. Objectives for this course are set by the individual student in a conference with the
clinical instructor and will serve as a guide for the clinical experience. The goal for all students will be to
perform 75% of the workflow that a nurse practicing in their area would typically manage while under the direct
supervision of the preceptor. In addition to the student-specific objectives, students will learn interdisciplinary
collaboration, time management and planning skills, and implementation of clinical judgement. Classroom
component consists of one to one leadership coaching with the director and an individualized NCLEX review
as well as a group NCLEX review.
Lab Hours PN I and II: Lab hours are dependent on courses covered and are indicated in each course syllabus. A skills record is
initiated in PN I Nursing Arts course and carried through lab experiences with related course subject material
throughout the remaining program. The students are responsible to maintain their skills record throughout
their nursing school career and are required to have all skills records with them on all clinical rotations.
Clinical Phase: Second Semester PN I and PN II
The clinical phase of the program is nine months in length and begins in the Spring Semester of PN I and
ends by April of PN II. Clinical experience is scheduled throughout the week, but primarily full-day
Wednesdays in the spring of year 1 and Tuesdays and Thursdays in year 2. PN I classroom learning
continues to take place afternoons Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Classroom learning for the PN II
takes place full days, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Clinical experiences are provided at Centra-Bedford
Memorial Hospital, Centra-Virginia Baptist Hospital, Centra Medical Group offices, Carilion Clinic Family
Medical office, Oakwood Rehab Center, the Bedford Christian Free Clinic, Johnson’s Health and Medical
Centers of Bedford, Blue Ridge Regional Jail Authority, and Bedford County Public schools and other
community health/medical events as available. Whenever possible, classroom instruction and clinical
assignments are correlated. Observations are integrated as available. Additional Observations are made
available per student request when there is facility availability.
The following subjects are taught in the clinical phase:
▪ Pharmacology and Medication Administration
▪ Introduction to Medical Surgical Nursing
▪ Medical-Surgical I
▪ Medical-Surgical II
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▪ Mental Health
▪ Maternal/Newborn
▪ Pediatrics
▪ Leadership and Management
Clinical Experience
All clinical rotations, patient assignments, observational experiences and all other learning experiences are
made and supervised by the faculty or approved preceptors. Whenever possible classroom instruction and
clinical assignments are correlated.
The following clinical areas are utilized with an estimated amount of experience:
● Medical-Surgical Unit 50-80 Hours
● Surgical Services 8-16 Hours
● Maternal/Newborn 8-16 Hours
● Intensive Care Unit 8-16 Hours
● Emergency Department 8-16 Hours
● Geriatric Nursing unit 100-140 Hours
● Pediatrics 20-30 Hours
● Medical offices 40-60 Hours
● Specialty Areas* 20 Hours
● Community Health* 40-60 Hours
● A Minimum of 400 Hours are required per Virginia Board of Nursing Regulations. The program may
include scheduled clinical experiences that total greater than 400 hours. This will represent the
number required for program completion.
*Wound clinics, dialysis, respiratory, radiology, cardiac clinic, adult day care, social services, regional
Jails and other available experiences.
Clinical Rotations are pre-assigned. If a student Clinical experiences are made available as the program
works with community resources for the best available learning experience for our students in compliance
with the Virginia Board of Nursing regulations and potential employment opportunities for the student. Bedford
School of Practical Nursing utilizes a vast variety of preceptorship opportunities in addition to supervised
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clinical experiences to expose the student to a wide variety of career opportunities. BSOPN works in
conjunction with its partnering clinical site facilities recognizing the multitude of nursing programs in the
surrounding area and the load of clinical experiences on these facilities. We seek to work in tandem with all
available nursing educational facilities in our community to best serve and meet our community health care
needs.
Example of Student Transcript including estimate of Course and Clinical hours Bedford County School of Practical Nursing Bedford Memorial Hospital Bedford County Public Schools Oakwood Street, Bedford, VA 2452
STUDENT FINAL RECORD Name: SS#: __(Last 4)__ Address: ________________________________________________________________ Street City State Zip Code Entrance Date: _______________________ Completion Date: _____________________ Withdrawal Date: _____________________ Reason: ______________________________________ Preclinical Phase Start Date: Completion Date: Days Absent: Clinical Phase Start Date: Completion Date: Days Absent:
AREAS OF LEARNING CLASS OF ________
PN I: PRECLINICAL INSTRUCTION SCHEDULED HOURS GRADE REMARKS
1. Anatomy and Physiology
160
2. Personal and Vocational Relationships
20
3. Communication & The Nursing Process
30
4. Cultural Concepts & Human Development
20
5. Nursing Arts
80
6. Nutrition
20
7. Geriatric Nursing
20
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PN II: CLINICAL INSTRUCTION HOURS GRADE REMARKS
1. Mental Health Nursing 30
2. Maternal /Newborn Nursing
20
3. Pediatric Nursing
20
4. Administration of Medications
30
5. Medical Surgical – Nursing I
140
6. Medical Surgical – Nursing II
20
TOTAL
905
Name: SUMMARY OF CLINICAL EXPERIENCE AND INSTRUCTION
CLINICAL EXPERIENCE HOURS GRADE REMARKS
Medical-Surgical Nursing/ Administration of Medications
80
Obstetric Nursing/Nursery 12
ICU/OR
36
Pediatric Nursing
30
Family Practice
50
Emergency Department
20
Geriatric Nursing
80
Community Health
42
Specialty Units
34
Mental Health
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Total
(Clinical area hours may reflect differently per student’s individualized clinical experiences)
400
(min.)
*PASS =90% or higher clinical competency grade FINAL CLINICAL GRADE: FINAL CLASSROOM GRADE: REMARKS:___________________________________________________________________________________
Director Date
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FACULTY ROSTER
CURRENT FACULTY RANK/TITLE NAME
COLLEGE/ UNIVERSITY
NURSING CREDENTIAL
HIGHEST DEGREE
OBTAINED
MAJOR TEACHING RESPONSIBILITY
William “Hutch” Hutchinson RN, BSN
Liberty University
RN BSN Director, Instructor PN I and Lead Instructor PN II, Subject Matter Expert Emergency Medicine
Jennifer Barrett, RN Centra School of Nursing
RN diploma Lead Instructor PN I, Clinical Instructor, Subject Matter Expert Maternal/Child and Pediatrics
Rebekah Melton RN, BSN Liberty University
RN BSN Clinical Instructor/Coordinator, Subject Matter Expert Primary Care
Darlene Byrom, RN University of Tennessee in Nashville
RN ADN Program Administrator, Clinical Instructor, Subject Matter Expert Long Term Care
Brittany Bobbitt, RN, BSN Liberty University
RN BSN Clinical Instructor, Subject Matter Expert Critical Care
Chad Bickford, RN Pennsylvania State University
RN ADN Clinical Instructor, Subject Matter Expert Oncology and Infusion Nursing
Jennifer Thornhill, RN, BSN University of Phoenix
RN BSN Adjunct Skills Lab Faculty, Subject Matter Expert Community Health
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EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
CLASSROOM/OFFICE PRIMARY CLINICAL SITES
BEDFORD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER
600 EDMUND STREET, BEDFORD VA
CENTRA BEDFORD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
1613 OAKWOOD STREET, BEDFORD VA
BEDFORD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
1613 OAKWOOD STREET, BEDFORD VA
CENTRA HEALTH PARTNERING MEDICAL FACILITIES
BEDFORD AND LYNCHBURG VIRGINIA
CARILION CLINIC FAMILY MEDICINE
BEDFORD, HARDY, AND ROCKY MOUNT VIRGINIA
JOHNSON’S HEALTH CENTER
BEDFORD OFFICES
BEDFORD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
NURSING DEPARTMENT
BLUE RIDGE REGIONAL JAIL AUTHORITY
LYNCHBURG VIRGINIA
Fees and Expenses Bedford County Public Schools tuition costs are reviewed annually and determined by the school board. Additional Costs of the program are adjusted to annual charges. The students are additionally responsible for payment of state required criminal background checks, processing
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fees and drug screen costs. These are adjusted annually according to screening costs to the program. Financial aid is not available through the public school’s program; however, there are many scholarship opportunities that are available to the student. Scholarship refunding is dependent on the individual scholarship’s policy. Students that are enrolled in the Practical Nursing program who are applying for VA benefits for tuition and expenses should note that Kim Halterman and Michelle Mathia are certified officials for guiding you in that process. You will not be prevented from enrolling, charged for any late fees, or denied access to our resources during this process. Student will need to provide the VA's Certificate of Eligibility by the first day of class, provide a written request to be certified, and provide any additional information as needed. Payments may be made in full or on a quarterly basis to Bedford County School of practical nursing (Checks Payable to Bedford Science and Technology Center). Failure of payment after a semester will result in the student attend an advisory committee which consists of the student, director of the nursing program, BSTC Administration, and BSTC bookkeeper/accounting dept. It will be determined in the meeting if the student will be allowed to progress in the program. If a student has not made payment for the annual cost of their first year, progression to the final year will be terminated. If a student has not completed payment for the final semester of the program, the student will not be allowed to graduate. Payments are non-refundable for program withdrawal/dismissal for academic, disciplinary, or personal reasons. Refunds will only be considered in a “life changing event” and will be reviewed on a case by case basis. ATI costs are non-refundable as the program is required to submit complete payment for the package to the company at the beginning of the program’s academic year. This includes High school student payments regardless of full payment in advance or quarterly payments. All students owns their ATI package purchased by Bedford County at the start of each year and therefore payment to the company must be made in full. Fees and Expenses Application/Admissions Bedford County School of Practical Nursing requires and application fee which is adjusted according to the cost of the required entry TEAS exam. The application fee is non-refundable. Any student not admitted to their year of application can reactivate their application by notifying the school and re-submitting the current year’s application fee. Notification must be MADE BY THE FOLLOWING YEAR’S WINDOW OF APPLICATION.
21.4255 Veterans Refund policy; nonaccredited courses. (a) Acceptable refund policy. A refund policy meets the requirements of §21.4254(c)(13), if it
provides that the amount charged for tuition, fees, and other charges for a portion of the course does not exceed the approximate pro rata portion of the total charges for tuition, fees, and other charges that the length of the completed portion of the course bears to the total length. The school may make provision for refund within the following limitations:
(1) Registration fee. An established registration fee in an amount not to exceed $10 need not be subject to proration. Where the established registration fee is more than $10, the amount in excess of $10 will be subject to proration.
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(2) Breakage fee. Where the school has a breakage fee, it may provide for the retention of only the exact amount of the breakage, with the remaining part, if any, to be refunded.
(3) Consumable instructional supplies. Where the school makes a separate charge for consumable instructional supplies, as distinguished from laboratory fees, the exact amount of the charges for supplies consumed may be retained but any remaining part must be refunded.
(4) Books, supplies and equipment. (i) A veteran or eligible person may retain or dispose of books, supplies and equipment at his or her discretion when:
(A) He or she purchased them from a bookstore or other source, and (B) Their cost is separate and independent from the charge made by the school for tuition and
fees. (ii) The school will make a refund in full for the amount of the charge for unissued books,
supplies and equipment when: (A) The school furnishes the books, supplies and equipment. (B) The school includes their cost in the total charge payable to the school for the course. (C) The veteran or eligible person withdraws or is discontinued before completing the course. (iii) The veteran or eligible person may dispose of issued items at his or her discretion even if
they were included in the total charges payable to the school for the course. (5) Tuition and other charges. Where the school either has or adopts an established policy for
the refund of the unused portion of tuition, fees, and other charges subject to proration, which is more favorable to the veteran or eligible person than the approximate pro rata basis as provided in this paragraph, such established policy will be applicable. Otherwise, the school may charge a sum which does not vary more than 10 percent from the exact pro rata portion of such tuition, fees, and other charges that the length of the completed portion of the course bears to its total length. The exact proration will be determined on the ratio of the number of days of instruction completed by the student to the total number of instructional days in the course.
(6) Prompt refund. In the event that the veteran, spouse, surviving spouse or child fails to enter the course or withdraws or is discontinued therefrom at any time prior to completion of the course, the unused portion of the tuition, fees and other charges paid by the individual shall be refunded promptly. Any institution which fails to forward any refund due within 40 days after such a change in status, shall be deemed, prima facie, to have failed to make a prompt refund, as required by this paragraph.
(b) Waiver. (1) An educational institution may apply through the appropriate State approving agency to the Director of the VA facility of jurisdiction for a waiver of the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section as they apply to a veteran or eligible person. The State approving agency shall forward the application to the Director along with its recommendations. The Director shall consider the recommendations and shall grant a waiver only when he or she finds that the educational institution:
(i) Is a college, university, or similar institution offering post-secondary level academic instruction leading to an associate or higher degree;
(ii) Is operated by an agency of a State or a unit of local government; (iii) If operated by an agency of a State, is located within that State; (iv) If operated by a unit of local government, is located within the boundaries of the area over
which that unit has taxing jurisdiction; (v) Is a candidate for accreditation by a regional accrediting agency; and (vi) Charges the veteran or eligible person no more than $120 per quarter, $180 per semester
or $360 per school year in tuition, fees and other charges for the course. (2) If an educational institution disagrees with a decision of a Director of a VA facility, it may ask
that the Director, Education Service review the decision. In reviewing the decision the Director must consider the evidence of record. He or she may not grant a waiver unless all the criteria of paragraph (b)(1) of this section are met.
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Bedford School of Practical Nursing Current Program Costs
Estimated
PN I PN II
Payment to school Payment to school
Tuition: ● In County: $1,000.00 ● Out of County $ 1,580.00 ● High School Seniors $0
Tuition: ● In County $ 2,000.00 ● Out of County $
3,160.00
ATI Testing/Tutorial Computer program ● $700 estimate for 2020/21
ATI Testing/Tutorial Computer program
● $700 estimate for 2020/21:
Criminal Background Check for High School minors: (completed end of PN 1-as 18) Drug Screen American Heart Association BLS
● $100 fee
Graduation Fee: ● $ 200.00
Additional Costs to Student
Books: Estimated $200.00-$250.00 Books: Estimated $300-$400
Uniforms: estimated $150 and up according to size and amount (minimum of 2 sets) Due March 1
Influenza vaccine required for clinical Due November 1
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Physical Examination by your PCP and completed immunization record per school and clinical site policy TB test due March
NCLEX Examination (End of last Semester)
● Board Licensure $200.00 ● Field Print $50.00 (current
Quote) ● NCLEX/Pearson $200.00-
$250.00
Equipment: Blood pressure cuff and Stethoscope-good quality but does not need to be top of line
UWorld student subscription ● $250
NCSBN Learning Extension (2nd semester)
● approximately $50-75: for NCLEX preparation
Revised: March 4, 2019
Bedford School of Practical Nursing
Policy and Procedures
ADMISSION/READMISSION/TRANSFERS:
Admission:
Requirements for admission to Bedford School of Practical Nursing program follow the Code of Virginia
requirements as stated in § 54.1-3020.
In addition, our program offers seating to qualified Bedford County Public High School Seniors who are in
good academic and disciplinary standing and admitted to the program after completion of the application
process. Acceptance is determined after review of the application by the admission board committee. The
program is then opened to Bedford County Adult residents and Surrounding county adults following the same
procedures.
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All students are required to submit a completed application by the listed deadline with transcripts [current
records for high school applicants] of High School or equivalent GED. Any continuing college degree or
course completion transcripts as applicable are to be included.
Medical background such as EMT or CNA/Med Tech are encouraged but not required at this time.
For consideration of admission, a TEAS test must be completed or current within the academic calendar
year. This test is scheduled and proctored by the program. The cost of the test is included in the application
fee and is not charged additionally unless there is an approved request for retake of the TEAS. In this
instance, the applicant will be required to pay for the cost of the additional testing.
Bedford School of Practical Nursing will adhere to its policy on Essential Performance Standards for
Admission and Progression in the Practical Nursing Program. Any requests for accommodations in the
program are referenced in this policy. It is the student’s responsibility to address any potential needs for
accommodation in the admissions process.
Upon a completion of the application requirements, an advisory board committee consisting of Bedford
County School of Practical nursing staff, Bedford County Public school representative(s), Bedford Memorial
Hospital representative(s), retired program director (as available), and a former program graduate (as
available), review the applications and data to determine program seat offerings.
Seating for program is determined by BCPS and instructional staff set at maximum PN I seating of 30. In
approved cases, the board will allow for a max seating of 30. This will be determined on an annual basis.
A wait list for qualified applicants who did not receive first placement is maintained. As seating becomes
available (up to but not beyond the second week of the initiation of the program) a PN I class seat will be
offered. It is not guaranteed that seating will be offered.
An applicant's desire for consideration for readmission or reactivation of an application must be submitted in
writing during the window of application for the next available upcoming PN class. This will expire after one
academic calendar year.
All former applicants are welcome to reapply the following year(s) as they so desire.
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Transfers:
Bedford School of practical nursing does not acknowledge any transfers of PN courses as this time. The
program curriculum design is set as a consecutive diploma program maintaining progression policies for each
courses and material throughout the 18 months (2 years).
State guideline reference:
§ 54.1-3020. Qualifications of applicant for practical nurse's license.
E. Transfer students may not be admitted until a nursing education program has received full
approval from the board
Readmission:
If a student must withdraw from the program for reasons other than academic or disciplinary reasons, the
student may be considered for readmission to the program on a case by case basis. The decision will be
determined by staff and advisory board as deemed appropriate by the director and BSTC principal.
A student withdraw from the program after successful completion of the first year (PN I), will be considered
for return for any available seating. If seating is unavailable the student will be placed on the waitlist for the
following available PN class and will be considered on a case by case basis. Readmission to PN will be
offered after 1 year of absence and no longer regardless of available seating. The student wishing to re-enter
the program after a year of absence must reapply to the program as a beginning student. Each case will be
considered by the admissions board committee and/or the BSOPN director and BSTC Principal.
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS
Criminal background checks are submitted to the Virginia State Police (VSP) at the start of the program. All
Adult students who gain admission to the program are required to submit payment and information to
complete this criminal background check. High School students will be required to submit payment and
information for the criminal background check at the end of PN I or at the age of 18 prior to the clinical
phase of PN II.
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Any falsification on the student’s application or any criminal conviction reported by the VSP will be reviewed
by the program and is subject to removal from the program. In the event of this occurrence, any payment of
tuition will be reimbursed.
o Reference to Virginia Board of Nursing Guidance Documents related to Criminal Background Checks
and history:
90-55, Joint statement of the Department of Health and the Department of Health Professions on Impact of
Criminal Convictions on Nursing Licensure or Certification and Employment in Virginia, revised November
2015
90-12, Delegation of Authority to Board of Nursing RN Education and Discipline Staff, revised May 16, 2017
ESSENTIAL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS POLICY Nurses and nursing students must learn to provide safe and effective care for all clients (patients). The
Bedford County School of Practical Nursing emphasizes safe nursing practice throughout all program
activities. Activities include practice of nursing skills in a laboratory setting as well as later practice in clinical
settings after students have demonstrated the necessary prerequisite skills. It is essential that all students
comply with all standards for safe care as required by professional standards in nursing as well as by partner
clinical sites. Students who practice in an unsafe manner in any way may be a hazard to themselves,
peers, other practicing healthcare providers, and clients.
The Bedford County School of Practical Nursing, as a component of Bedford County Public Schools, is
committed to promoting a safe learning environment on and off its physical campus including but not limited
to all clinical sites. This means that all students must be capable of completing nursing skills safely while
adhering to the Bedford County Public Schools Code of Student Conduct as well as workplace behavior
policies associated with clinical sites. Additionally, students must comply with all behavioral expectations of
the practical nursing program enumerated below. Therefore, all students must be physically, emotionally, and
cognitively capable of safely performing the essential functions of his or her role.
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Qualified applicants are admitted and permitted to progress without discrimination with regard to race, color,
national origin or ancestry, gender, religion, veteran status, or disability. The Bedford County School of
Practical Nursing is committed to ensuring that otherwise qualified students with disabilities are given equal
access through reasonable accommodations and services.
The following attributes are considered essential for all nursing students.
Auditory
A student must possess auditory ability to monitor and assess health needs. This includes but is not limited
to the ability to hear and interpret information a patient is communicating verbally, hear auscultatory sounds
using a stethoscope, hear auditory signals from technical equipment, hear cries for help, and communicate
using a telephone.
Behavioral/Emotional
A student must possess the behavioral and emotional health to sufficiently utilize his or her intellectual
abilities in order to exercise good judgment and meet their patient’s needs in a professional manner. This
includes but is not limited to maintaining professional, sensitive, and empathetic therapeutic relationships with
clients and families; contributing in a positive manner to the team of healthcare providers caring for clients;
examining and changing his or her behavior when it interferes with a productive individual or team
relationships while caring for patients; responding to highly stressful and/or unpredictable situations including
but not limited to physical and emotional trauma, birth, and death in an effective and professional manner;
applying ethical principles to decision making despite various stressors; making appropriate decisions about
the release of information; and regulating himself or herself to understand the scope of practice, including the
scope of student nurse practice.
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English Language Facility
Per the Virginia Board of Nursing, all nurses licensed in Virginia must be fluent in English. This does not
require an individual to be a native English speaker but does require fluency in oral and written
communication.
General Communication
A student must possess the ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with clients, family members,
members of the health care team, and other stakeholders. This includes expressive and receptive modes of
verbal, nonverbal, and written communication further including but not limited to explaining treatment
procedures; initiating and sustaining health teaching; documenting nursing assessments, actions, and
client/family responses; reading patient documentation and various medical literature; and giving an accurate
report of patient information to other healthcare professionals and appropriate stakeholders.
Motor Coordination, Strength and Stamina
A student must possess sufficient gross and fine motor coordination to complete nursing care. This includes
but is not limited to moving about in various patient care environments; performing treatments and
procedures; and calibrating and using equipment. A student must possess sufficient motor function,
neuromuscular strength, and coordination to perform functions of nursing care. This includes but is not
limited to transferring clients between wheelchairs, beds, and stretchers; elicit information for care using
palpation, auscultation, and percussion; manipulate diagnostic instruments; perform CPR; administer
medications (intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and oral); manipulate life-support devices; and apply
pressure to stop bleeding. A student must possess sufficient stamina to complete nursing functions. This
includes but is not limited to the ability to sit, stand, move, and tolerate physically taxing workloads in skills
lab and healthcare environments for periods up to 12 hours at a time.
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Tactile
A student must possess tactile ability sufficient to perform a physical assessment of a patient and to perform
procedures necessary for nursing care. This includes but is not limited to the ability to perform palpation and
other functions necessary for physical examination; assess texture, shape, size, temperature, and vibration;
perform therapeutic functions such as inserting a urinary catheter, change dressings, and give medications;
and collect specimens.
Visual Acuity
A student must possess visual ability sufficient for observation and assessment to provide nursing care. This
includes but is not limited to the ability to see drainage on dressings and identify/monitor the drainage of
body fluids; note fluid levels in collection devices, syringes, and infusion devices; read a variety of gauges;
observe changes in patient skin color; discriminate colors for diagnostic purposes; and observe patient
behavior.
Reasonable Accommodations for Disabilities
The Bedford County School of Practical Nursing, along with Bedford County Public Schools as a whole, is
compliant with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 3-21 Part B, and the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act
of 2008. The purpose of disability accommodations is to provide equal access. Reasonable
accommodations do not negate requirements for successful completion of a program, course, service, and/or
activity; adherence to generally acceptable standards of behavior; the general, academic, and professional
student rights and responsibilities of the Bedford County School of Practical Nursing, Bedford County Public
Schools, and of clinical sites; or adherence to faculty/staff directions and instructions.
No student will be excluded from any course or curriculum of study on the basis of disability if the student
can perform the essential functions of the course or curriculum with reasonable accommodations. The
practical nursing courses have rigorous technical standards which must be met by all students.
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All disability-related accommodations in the classroom should, as appropriate, mirror the accommodations
appropriate for the student’s possible NCLEX-PN completion. Adult students seeking to receive disability-
related accommodations should self-disclose their need to the Director of the School of Practical Nursing
and/or the Principal of Bedford Science and Technology Center. This self-disclosure should be
accompanied by documentation of the disability within the past two years as indicated by a qualified
professional. The documentation reviewed by the Bedford County School of Practical Nursing should be
compliant with Virginia Board of Nursing Guidance Document 90-22, accessible via
https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing/nursing_guidelines.htm. High school students seeking to receive
disability-related accommodations should speak with their 504 or IEP case manager, or, in the absence of
previous eligibility, their base school’s child study/student consultation team coordinator. The Director of the
School of Practical Nursing, the Principal of Bedford Science and Technology Center, or any Bedford County
Public Schools secondary school counselor can assist in helping students reach these individuals as
needed. Case managers for high school students with 504 plans or IEPs share these documents
confidentially with instructors.
Students seeking testing accommodations should be advised of Virginia Board of Nursing Guidance
Document 90-92 available at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing/nursing_guidelines.htm.
Applicants seeking testing accommodations for entrance tests should contact the Director of the School of
Practical Nursing to make such a request in advance of entrance testing. All disability-related
accommodations in entrance testing should, as appropriate, mirror the accommodations appropriate for the
applicant’s possible NCLEX-PN completion.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
GRADING AND PROGRESSION POLICY
Grades by design demonstrate mastery of subject matter. There is a direct correlation between students
reaching benchmarks for grades and passing the state board licensing exam.
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The state board of nursing also holds our nursing program accountable for the number of students who take
and pass the state exam as reflected in the NCLEX program pass rate. Therefore, it is imperative that
students gain a good foundation in all areas of learning in the program's first year in order to proceed to the
second year or clinical phase of the program. The following regulations regarding grades will be followed:
1. A minimum grade average of 80% is required in each course for progression in the program. Final
course grades are not rounded. The program encourages students to self-evaluate their grading progression
particularly if a student is struggling in maintaining minimum grading percentages throughout the progression
of their courses. An improvement plan is strongly recommended in this situation.
2. The instructor will provide each student a grade sheet that contains a breakdown of an individual's
grade at the conclusion of each area of learning and or course.
3. Any concerns about grades should be communicated to the teacher immediately after receiving a
grade in question.
4. Any student who fails to achieve a minimum grade of 80% in a course will not be allowed to
progress in the program. A conference with the student, teacher and director will be scheduled. The
parent/guardian of any high school student will be notified. Our high school learners will be allowed to
continue in the first year of PN I to complete the course for their high school credit and graduation
requirements. Grading and assignments for this situation will continue; however, the student will have the
opportunity for extra credit grading and additional remediation to encourage successful completion of high
school credits. The high school learners in this situation will not be permitted to enter the second year of the
PN program.
7. Any student who fails to progress in the program for academic reasons can re-apply to the program
for a later graduating cohort. This student would need to follow the normal admission guidelines and is not
guaranteed readmission. The faculty will discuss options and suggestions for actions in improving student
success in their future plans in nursing education.
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8. A grade will be given at the end of each nine weeks for high school students only. This is
necessary to fulfill school division high school graduation requirements.
9. The county grading scale utilized is as follows:
Letter Numerical Equivalent Performance Assessment
o A 90-100 Highly Proficient
o B 80-89 Proficient
o C 70-79 Insufficient for program
o D 60- 69 Insufficient for program
o F Below 60 Insufficient for program
10. Grading percentage of overall grade per course will be as follows:
Class work, Quizzes, Study Guides, ATI Point
System Grade (when applicable) and
related areas of learning outcomes
10-20% (dependent on ATI grading)
Exams: written, ATI, & Saunders combined No less than 80%
Skills No less than 80%
Clinical No less than 90%
11. Late assignments are discussed in the Attendance policy.
12. ATI: In preparation for the NCLEX exam, the Bedford County School of Practical Nursing utilizes
learning system provided by Assessment Technology Institute (ATI). ATI Learning System is a curriculum
support program that offers areas of learning enhanced assessments in nursing content area. Our program
has aligned this system with our curriculum to assist in student NCLEX success. The ATI areas of learning
include:
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Fundamentals Adult Medical-Surgical
Pharmacology Mental Health
Maternal/ Newborn Nursing Care of Children
Gerontology Proctored Assessments
Management Comprehensive Final Exam
Achieve is an interactive tutorial which our program utilizes in the first semester to assist the student to be
better equipped for success in the rigors of the program. Achieve is an ATI program with multimedia that
supports student success in study skills, test taking, and learning styles and strategy preferences. The tutorial
contains five modules that offer evidence–based recommendations to aid nursing students at all levels in
enhancing their experience as learners and test takers. The tutorial contains detailed information to aid ESL
students in their unique challenges. Achieve includes in-depth information to prepare students for success in
completing their clinical experiences.
Features:
● Five modules focus on skills and strategies.
1. Test-Taking Skills
2. Study Skills
3. Classroom Skills
4. Preparing for Clinical Experiences
5. Challenges for ESL Students
● Extensive use of videos, audios, and hands-on strategies explain and clarify concepts.
● At the conclusion of each module, 15- to 20-item tests reinforce content and enhance learning.
● Information is provided on a variety of learning styles and preferences.
● Evidence-based reference information embedded in modules enables further study.
● Detailed suggestions for test taking for all types of learners
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Nurse Logic is an additional curricular support to promote student success. Nurse Logic provides valuable
instruction regarding test taking strategies. These strategies will help students develop skills to promote
success throughout the nursing program.
Lessons in Nurse Logic include:
Critical Reading Strategy Techniques
Nursing Guidelines Prioritizing Questions
Mastering Alternate Item Formats
Skills Modules and Video Case Studies:
Various video clips are utilized to facilitate success in the academic as well as the clinical area.
Associated with each area of learning will be a variety of quizzes, practice test, proctored test and
remediation tools utilized. Instructors will post completion dates and/or time on task assignments throughout
the program. Course Syllabi will indicate alignment of the ATI programs within related courses.
BSOPN ATI grading policy states that any ATI proctored exam will not count more than 5-10% of any course
grade. Instructors will communicate assignments to the students and alert the student of graded ATI
assignments. The Instructor may choose to utilize an ATI Point system for a class and or Clinical work
grade.
Proctored exams will not be utilized independently for determining progression in any course or area of
learning. The ATI comprehensive final exam will not be utilized for purposes of completion of our program.
ATI predictions and use of the PULSE prediction of probability in passing NCLEX exams are for the
student’s use in self evaluating their progress in NCLEX success. Faculty will utilize ATI student usage and
testing data to assist the student’s success and identify any at risk students.
It is expected that all students will complete ATI Assignments.
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13. Clinical Grading: PN II Clinical Phase
In the clinical area, a weekly record and grade will be completed by the instructors for each student detailing
performance in professional appearance, punctuality, obtaining assignment information, interpersonal
relationships, nursing care, dependability, use of learning opportunities, documenting, reporting patient care,
and professional conduct. The clinical evaluation grades will be monitored every 4 weeks and an average of
90 must be maintained. Students must maintain a 90 on the four week average for the entire clinical
period to remain in the program. These grades will be reported as satisfactory for those grades above 90
and unsatisfactory for grades below 90.
All clinical care preparation work must be turned into the instructors at the start of each clinical
experience. Failure to have this completed will result in a “zero” for the day and the student will be required
to leave the clinical area.
All clinical paperwork generated during the previous week (corrected per the instructor’s directions) must be
turned in by the start of class each Monday morning of the following week.
o The areas of learning for each year will be averaged for a unit grade on the final transcript.
____________________________________________________________________________________
PROGRESSION POLICY
In order for Practical Nursing I students to progress to the clinical phase (PN II) of the practical nursing
program and for a PN student to progress to any given course, each student must meet the following criteria:
1. Students must maintain attendance requirements as outlined in the Attendance Policy included in this
handbook.
2. Students must maintain a minimum of 80% in each course covered during the preclinical phase and
clinical phase.
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3. High school students must meet graduation requirements and receive a high school diploma by the
end of the pre-clinical phase of the program.
4. All students must successfully pass a drug screen. (During PN II)
5. Adult student’s criminal background check compatible with legal requirements as required by each
participating clinical agency and VBON regulations. (this will be done at entry to the program; minors
will be completed before clinical begins in PN II)
6. The student must not violate any aspect of the school or county public school’s Code of Conduct.
7. The student’s tuition and program costs balance must be paid and up to date.
8. The student must complete all of the Fundamentals of Nursing clinical hours as scheduled in the
Spring Semester and maintain a 90% clinical grade.
Graduation Policy
PN I Students: are expected to participate in the graduation ceremony for the PN II class. The PN I students
are required to have the approved program scrub uniform to wear for the ceremony and will receive
recognition during the ceremony for progression to the clinical phase of their nursing education. The
ceremony is planned to not interfere with high school graduation ceremonies and is typically held the
Thursday prior to Bedford County Public Schools High School Graduations.
PN II Student:
1. Will be evaluated by the faculty according to criteria set by the School of Practical Nursing;
2. Must meet the objectives of the school;
3. Must attain an average of 80 in each course;
4. Must meet all course requirements of the clinical phase prior to graduation;
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5. Must have completed all makeup paperwork and clinical assignments as required;
6. Must demonstrate average or above average technical competence in the performance of clinical
assignments;
7. Must demonstrate average or above average performance in the application of classroom learning to
the patient situation;
8. Must meet all financial obligations to the school before graduation;
9. Must return all borrowed reference materials to the school;
10. Must be present for graduation unless permission for absence is granted by the Director of the
school. Such permission is granted only in case of an emergency.
Each student will have a graduation fee incorporated into their second year program fees. This fee will
include securing any cost of location for the graduation and additional fees for facility use and equipment
use. This fee will provide the student’s graduation announcements (up to 25 per student), graduation gown,
awards, and special presentations.
___________________________________________________________________________________
TEST/EXAM POLICY
Bedford School of Practical Nursing bases the design of the testing on the most current NCSBN NCLEX PN
Test Plan and NCLEX standards. Level of questioning is based on upper level questioning according to
Anderson and Krathwolh revised Bloom’s Taxonomy at the applying level and above. In addition, questions
will be guided by rules such as;
all questions are stand alone, use question formats such as “how” or “what” , prioritizing question options
should be correct, use generic names vs. brand names, and alternate format style questions embedded in
every test; questions will be in multiple format choice
39
The student can expect the difficulty of testing to increase as progression continues in the program. Our
testing policy is heavily weighted carrying no less than 80% for each course. Any additional learning
strategies will be graded at a minimum designed not to carry the student through the program but to strictly
re-inforce nursing concepts. Our program’s philosophy is intentional by design reflecting the requirements of
successful completion of the NCLEX exam for licensure. Additional work per course will be graded as listed
in the grading policy:
● Class work, homework, ATI Points System, group work used by the instructor will be worth
no more than 10-20% of the total course grade.
● ATI Policy maintains proctored exams will hold a 5-10% weight in grading when applicable
● Testing will be no less than 80% percent of the course grade dependent on other grading
assignments utilized be the instructor.
Each course will provide a minimum of three tests for the student to achieve their final course grade.
Testing concepts will include material and concepts covered in class instruction and include reading material
and assignments the student is responsible for reading and studying as indicated in course syllabi and any
additional reading assigned by the instructor.
Testing Procedure:
Each test administered by the faculty will simulate NCLEX standards. Students should be prepared for the
following possible format:
o BSOPN tests are in predominantly multiple choice formats and will additionally offer alternate format
questioning. Tests will be administered by pen and paper. Computer format testing will only be
according to ATI proctored testing and Comprehensive predictor testing.
o Personal items will not be allowed with the students, including mobile phones, smart devices, and
smart watches. Basic function calculators will be provided by the program for testing.
o White boards will be utilized for computer testing for any work needed on “paper”.
o Tests will not be graded by the students. The students are to use blue or black ink when taking
paper tests.
o Detailed discussion or distributing of test material is strictly prohibited and is grounds for dismissal
from the program.
40
o Test will be redistributed after grading for a time of review and remediation and collected by the
instructor for student files. The student is not allowed to keep the test or make copies or take
pictures in any form. This may be grounds for dismissal from the program.
The student has the right to request tests for review in preparation for NCLEX examination.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Bedford County School of Practical Nursing
CODE OF CONDUCT
CONDUCT AND ETHICS FOR THE PRACTICAL NURSING STUDENT:
All students must conduct themselves both on duty and off duty in such a manner as to reflect no discredit
upon themselves or upon the school.
All Students (High School and Adult) must meet these standards and others listed in the Bedford County
Public School’s Code of Conduct, the base school handbook distributed to high school students and the
BSTC Student/Parent Handbook. Dispositions for non-compliance are listed in the mentioned publications. It
is expected that all high school and adult learners adhere to these codes of conduct, conducting themselves
in a manner that will not be detrimental to the schools and partnering facilities.
Any student who fails to meet the standards of the school will have a conference with instructors and/or
director and/or representative of Bedford County Public School administration and may be withdrawn from
the program.
Both the admission committee and faculty reserve the right to reject applicants and dismiss students who do
not qualify or satisfactorily meet the objectives of the program. The administrator and director also reserve
the right to dismiss any student whose behavior is not acceptable.
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Lying, cheating, stealing, or destruction of property will not be tolerated. Any student who participates in
these behaviors will be immediately dismissed from the program.
Smoking and Drug use:
In accordance with the policies of Bedford County Public Schools, CENTRA facilities, and all partnering
clinical facilities, no student will use tobacco, alcohol, or drug products at any time while on the grounds of
these facilities or during any affiliated school function. Tobacco, alcohol, and/or drug use at any time on
these properties, including outdoors, is grounds for dismissal. Students may not circle surrounding
neighborhoods smoking or cross to a neighbor’s yard/sidewalk to use any tobacco product.
Any suspected illicit or improper drug use is grounds for on-site immediate referral for drug screening and
possible dismissal from the program. Refusal of such screening is grounds for removal from the program.
Any positive drug screen will result in dismissal from the program.
Clinical Experience Code of Conduct:
The practical nursing student is expected to adhere to the following rules and guidelines while participating in
their clinical experience at all partnering clinical sites. Any student failing to adhere to these policies will be
liable for disciplinary action.
1. Physicians and all practicing Health Professionals, are deserving of the student's respect. If a
student is using chart/EHR access and medical staff approaches, the student should offer the chart/EHR
access for their use. They are to confine their conversation with medical staff to any appropriate statements
which may be relative to the patient's condition or appropriate to the nursing care they should provide. The
student should ask the physician's permission to observe any procedure performed on the patient care unit,
allowing that the patient has consented.
2. It is considered unethical and illegal under federal law (HIPAA) for any student to engage in gossip
or release of information concerning any patient, his disorder, treatment, personality or personal
life. Likewise, the student is not to make any mention of any information overheard or any situations seen in
the operating room, recovery room, maternity, or any other area of the hospital that would reflect on the
habits or practices of a doctor or any other staff member. All the information which a student accumulates
42
while on duty is considered confidential and is not to be discussed in their home, on social media, in the
community, or among their friends, be they members of an allied medical field or not. Any information which
may be discussed in the classroom relative to a particular patient or to hospital practices is not to be
discussed outside of the classroom by the students.
Violations will result in immediate expulsion, without exception.
3. Students are expected to report for their clinical experience at the designated time. Students receive
a patient report from a unit nurse. At times specified by instructors, the student may have to be present for
a morning or afternoon report.
4. Students are not permitted to leave the hospital or other clinical sites for the day until the completion
of the pre-arranged clinical rotation time unless they have special permission from the clinical instructors. The
student must report to the instructor/preceptor and unit nurse responsible for the student’s assigned client
prior to leaving the unit.
5. Each student is expected to complete all assigned clinical duties each day. If a student is given a
specific assignment, they are expected to fulfill this assignment unless there are extenuating
circumstances. If a student is lax and fails to perform the assignment conscientiously and completely, it will
be documented on the evaluation sheet. Should there be any grievance concerning the evaluation by the
student, a conference with the director and/or instructors will be conducted and specific action will be taken
to correct the behavior.
6. Patients are to be addressed formerly followed by the surname or full name. Terms of endearment
like “Sweetie” are discouraged and not considered professional. Physicians are to be addressed as Dr.
followed by their last name.
7. Unprofessional conduct shall include but not be limited to:
o Performing acts beyond the limits of practice of a student nurse and without appropriate supervision.
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o Assuming duties and responsibility without adequate training.
o Misconducted such as obtaining supplies, equipment or drugs for personal or other unauthorized use
o Abusing, neglecting or abandoning patients/clients and unsafe clinical practice
o Failure to notify appropriate health care team members of changes in client’s status or failure to
follow verbal and written instructions.
o Failure to document care given or falsifying client documentation
o Violation of HIPAA law
o Inappropriate use of social media potentially violating confidentiality laws.
o Loud, boisterous talking and behavior unbecoming a student nurse in activities associated with the
school of nursing.
___________________________________________________________________________________
DISMISSAL POLICY
The Director, Principal, and Faculty of the Bedford County School of Nursing have the right to dismiss
students from the program for any or all of the following and the aforementioned reasons.
1. Students who do not maintain an 80 average in each course (Grades are not rounded).
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2. Students who remain unclean and unsanitary and unprofessional in their personal appearance and
health habits after repeated faculty counsel and intervention. This includes a lingering odor of smoke
on clothes on in hair.
3. Students whose behavior is immoral and/or reflects negatively on Bedford County Schools and the
profession of nursing (ex. not limited to: drinking to excess, flagrant promiscuity, drug addiction,
etc.).
4. Students who violate HIPAA law and practice unethical behavior such as discussing other
students, patients, doctors, nurses and hospital personnel in unprofessional situations.
5. Students who remain uncooperative, unprofessional, and resistant to corrective behavior, regardless
of counsel against such behavior.
6. Students whose physical health interferes with the safety of the normal workload of nursing,
endangers patients or provides a legal liability to the hospital and or School of Nursing.
7. Students with emotional and mental health issues which interfere with the normal pursuance of their
duties, endanger patients or classmates, or provide a legal liability to the hospital and/or School of
Nursing.
8. Students who have exceeded the maximum absences allowed (see attendance policy).
9. Students who consistently give poor and unsafe nursing care to patients despite coaching, or who
are unable or unwilling to demonstrate competency in basic nursing tasks assigned.
10. Students who repeatedly fail to comply with the dress code
.
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11. Students who have a repeat failure to call in before their assigned time when they will be absent or
who are absent without notifying faculty and/or staff; Students who do not attend assigned clinical
rotations.
12. Students who are found guilty of unethical and or criminal behavior and not compliant with the
Code of Conduct such as lying, cheating or stealing, or cooperating with someone else who is lying,
cheating, or stealing; or students who are found to be taking advantage of patients or their families.
13. Students who are found distributing or stealing of testing material.
14. Students who make inappropriate use of mobile devices during clinical after repeated documented
offenses or fail to communicate regarding communication needs appropriately with the clinical
instructor(s). Mobile devices are not to be utilized in patient care areas, but may be accessed in
staff areas only for the purposes of communicating with instructors or looking up information
pertinent to clinical. No photographs are to be taken in patient care settings or of patient records or
documents.
15. Students who have documented clinical performance fall below the school’s 90% benchmark in a
four week period.
___________________________________________________________________________________
ATTENDANCE
Good attendance is crucial in order to gain the necessary knowledge and skills needed for a foundation to
enter the second year clinical phase of the program. There is also a close correlation between good
attendance and good grades. Punctuality in required. The instructor will establish required arrival and
dismissal times. Normal hours of operation generally are:
PN I: M-F 1:00-3:00 (High School busses arrive around 1:10)
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PN II: M-F First Shift hours (approximately 6:45-3:00/30)
1. Any student who misses five days of class that are not excused by a physician’s note, parental sick
note, death in the immediate family, or court order will have a conference with the teacher to discuss the
absences.
2. Any student who misses seven days that are not excused (see above) will meet with the director
who will review both attendance and program achievement. For high school students this will be handled as
outlined in the BCPS Code of Student Conduct. Any student who misses seven day excused will meet with
the director due to the amount of material missed.
3. Any student missing more than ten days (excused or unexcused) will be in jeopardy of not
progressing to the clinical phase of the program. Academic achievement will be reviewed by the director and
faculty. A conference will be held with the student (and parents if student is in high school). In special
circumstances, the program will consider absences greater than ten days if work is maintained and
completed in a homebound status and exams are made up in a timely fashion. An example of this scenario
would be a student absence due to Pregnancy and birth of the child or a surgical procedure requiring a
requisite amount of rest. These absences cannot exceed two weeks due to the amount of sensitive material
covered. Each situation will be considered on a case by case situation when it is a medical excuse.
4. Any student missing 4 days of clinical rotation must have an excused absence from their doctor and
will need to coordinate appropriate make up of clinical experiences with the clinical coordinator. Anyone
missing more than 7 clinical days (this up to 28-30 hours of missed clinical hours) may be at risk dismissal
from the program.
5. Four tardies to class, five early dismissals, or a combination of four from both categories will be
considered one day's absence.
Students with excused absences may make up work accordingly:
Work/tests assigned prior to absences will be due the day of return or as determined by the instructor. It is
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the student’s responsibility to obtain missed assignments and notes.
Absent 1-2 days will have 3 school days to make up work.
Absent 3-5 days will have 6 school days to make up work.
Absent 6+ days will talk with the teacher to establish a date for the work to be completed.
After 10 days the student without medical excuse, the incomplete will be recorded as F.
Assignments that are late due to an unexcused absence are subject to minus 2 points per day.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE, SICK LEAVE, and DEATH IN the IMMEDIATE FAMILY
Students will not be granted leaves of absence except in an emergency. This granting of a leave will be
judged on the merit of the needs of the individual.
Doctor, dental and other appointments must be made for after class or clinical hours or on days off.
Death in Immediate Family:
The student is allowed bereavement days for the death of a father; mother, brother, sister, husband, wife,
child, guardian, or grandparent. The student is responsible for making up any work missed while absent. It is
recommended that the traditional 3 days of bereavement be observed however in the light of a spouse, child
or parent death, this may not be feasible. Absence would be considered in this situation as in the case of a
medical excuse and will be considered on a case by case basis; however, considerable absence is not
feasible for success in the program. The program director would discuss other potential options in the event
of extended bereavement beyond one week.
It is the student’s responsibility to obtain missed assignments and complete work by the date set by the
instructor. The instructor sets the date for missed tests/quizzes.
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STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY IN ABSENCE or TARDY
2 Step Procedure:
1. Call Clinical area where you are assigned. Tell staff you are sick and will not be in-take the name of the
person you speak with. This must be done prior to your assigned time as clinical areas expect you to be in
place on time to carry out your assignment.
*AND
2. Contact the Clinical Instructor and leave a message or call any additional number provided by the
instructor. Instructors will not accept “second-hand” information about a student’s location or status from a
classmate. Failure to do this may result in violations of the "Dismissal Policy."
Your Clinical Instructor will voice the preference in phone number in which to contact.
SCHOOL CALENDAR
Bedford School of Practical Nursing program follows Bedford County Public School’s (BCPS) Academic
School Year Calendar. The county school’s inclement weather policy is additionally followed. PN II mostly
follows the calendar with the exception of earlier start time accommodating clinical rotations. In addition, as
announced by faculty, BCPS parent teacher and/or teacher workdays may be utilized for PN II clinical and
or instructional time.
The BCPS Academic Calendar may be accessed through the public school’s website at
www.Bedford.k12.va.us.
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DRESS CODE
1. Approved program uniform is to be worn at all times while in all clinical areas and other times
designated by the instructors. Full uniform is to be worn at all clinical sites both in and out of the hospital
unless otherwise directed by your instructors. Units such as Surgical and OB will have you change from your
approved uniform to designated unit scrubs. Students must still arrive in student approved uniforms to these
areas.
2. Approved Program Uniforms defined:
a) Official LPN student uniform-Ordered through designated vendor
b) White or black professional shoes (solid colors) - must be an acceptable uniform shoe. All shoes
must have an enclosed heel. (Perforated “Crocs” are not allowed.)
c) Official Student Badge.
d) Appropriate nursing equipment including Stethoscope, penlight, and bandage scissors.
e) Watch with seconds hand or digital second indicator.
3. No jewelry except wedding bands and/or engagement rings or class rings. Only one pair of
discrete, small earrings (less than 1 cm and not dangling) is acceptable. Clear of flesh color retainers are
allowed for other piercings. No visible tattoos during clinical or when in uniform. Long sleeve matching
undershirts that do not dangle or interfere with safe care may be worn to cover tattoos. No bracelets except
“Medic-Alert”. No necklaces unless completely secured and hidden under uniform top.
4. Ballpoint pen (black). No markers are to be used for documentation or assignments.
5. Hair must be professional neat and appropriately styled (no pigtails, bows, big clips, etc.) and clean
at all times. No long bangs or loosely swinging styles. Hair must be kept away from the face at all times
while in uniform. Hair styles must not fall forward in the student’s face and or field of patient care. Hair can
be worn in a bun or braided. Male students must be either clean-shaven or display neat and trimmed facial
hair that does not interfere with the use of respirators and masks.
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6. Uniforms will be freshly laundered for each clinical and without wrinkles.
7. Appropriate undergarments will be worn that are flesh toned or white for all genders. Female
students will wear a bra or camisole while in uniform with the same color.
8. Students assigned to the maternity unit or the operating room, are the only students who are
permitted to wear that unit’s required scrub attire. Scrubs are for clinical times only and must be left on
those units. Students will receive guidelines on the use of facility scrubs on orientation to the unit.
10. Dress in the hospital on non-clinical days for pre-arranged events or case study preparations should
be similar to that worn by office personnel in any professional business. No short dresses or skirts, no
shorts, no skorts, no tight skimpy clothing, no midriff blouses, or jeans. No flip-flops, no dirty, holey or high
top tennis shoes. Name badges must be worn at all times even in professional dress if obtaining assignment
information. The School’s uniform scrub jacket or lab coat over a t-shirt or blouse is acceptable. NAME
BADGES MUST BE WORN
12. Nails must be kept at a reasonable length to work with patients. (See Instructor for clarification or
questions). No artificial nails, tips, or artwork allowed. Nail polish is discouraged but will be tolerated in
neutral and natural colors only (pale pink, clear, or tan) if it is unchipped.
13. Scrub jackets may be worn and must be laundered daily if worn in clinical areas. No other type of
sweater or jacket may be worn over the uniform while on clinical.
14. Your hospital badge must be visible when on clinical. The first badge is free. There is a replacement
fee for lost badges. (Student’s expense) Badges are to be returned upon completion of the program.
UNIFORM RESALE POLICY
Uniforms purchased by students may be resold after the last week of school. Nursing school is not involved
in this transaction. Students may choose to donate used uniforms to the program that will be utilized for
emergency backup or financial need situations.
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___________________________________________________________________________________
STUDENT HEALTH
Students are required to complete a medical physical releasing the student for the essential physical/mental
requirements for nursing school in order to complete the application process. A completed immunization
record must be submitted with completed series of:
MMR (2)
Hep. B (3)
Varicella (2)
-Or documentation of blood titers indicating immunity.
It is recommended that the DTap is up to date.
Tuberculin two step skin test is required within six months prior to clinical rotations. The Quantiferon TB Gold
will also be accepted.
Centra requires all employees and guest users (students and faculty) to have the annual flu vaccine prior to
clinical rotations. Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the program. Only documented proof of
medical inability to have the vaccine will be considered. Then Centra policy will be followed.
Incomplete immunization records will prevent participation in the required clinical experiences.
ILLNESSES AND INJURIES
Students are responsible to see their own physicians when they are ill or if they are injured. Neither the
hospital nor Bedford County Schools is responsible for illnesses or injuries, regardless of the
circumstances. Each student is strongly encouraged to carry health insurance to cover these situations.
If a student is injured or has had a body fluid or blood borne pathogen exposure while on clinical rotation, an
accident sheet from the school system must be completed and the student will need to be seen by their
personal physician or by an Urgent care or ED physician as deemed most appropriate for the situation.
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SOCIAL MEDIA STATEMENT
Bedford County School of Practical Nursing recognizes our society’s use of social media. Access of such a
resource can be extremely beneficial however at the same time requires great responsibility. Our program
adheres to the public school’s statement of use. In addition, due to the nature of the career of nursing and
regulatory and federal laws such as HIPAA, social media use is strongly cautioned and should reflect
professionalism at all times. Faculty and students are responsible for adhering to privacy and confidentiality
standards and are required to be familiar with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
(HIPAA). There shall be under no circumstances, sharing of any class room or clinical experience in any
social media format. Examples of these would be any web-based and mobile platform in which users
generate content that creates interactive and highly accessible content in pictures or in written or taped
dialogue. Any identified breach of confidentiality/privacy must be reported promptly to the practical nursing
faculty or BSTC faculty. Reference for safe practice of social media use in nursing is found on NCSBN
website: www.ncsbn.org/nurses guide to social media use. Material from NCSBN is additionally covered and
distributed to the student body. Any breach in this policy will be grounds for dismissal from the program.
CELL PHONE AND MOBILE DEVICES
Bedford School of Practical Nursing recognizes the value of cell phone and mobile device use. The program
will periodically allow for the use of such devices for learning experiences only as directed by the instructor.
Our program adheres to the Bedford Science and Technology Center’s cell phone policy. The students must
abide by the policy and by the instructor’s rules for device use. Under NO circumstances will cell phones be
accessed for personal use in patient care areas. Communication with instructors are required if a special
event such as an emergency situation is occurring. The instructor will advise steps for the student to take.
This will likely be an excused stepping off of clinical site to an outside location to complete any
communication via the device. Classroom use of cell phone and devices are not allowed unless used as a
part of the learning experience. As stated above, special emergency situations must be communicated to the
instructor. The instructor will then make an informed decision on the plan of action whether this be quiet
excuse from the classroom to conduct mobile device communication or excuse to use facility phone access
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in offices. Again, the student is responsible to communicate office and contact numbers to friends and family
in the event of emergency.
No pictures or recordings are to be taken on clinical rotations. No pictures or recordings are to be taken
during classroom time unless prearranged and approved by the instructor.
No Cell phones, mobile devices, or smart watches allowed during testing.
Any inappropriate use of mobile devices or breach in our policy will be means for dismissal from the
program.
DRIVING
BSTC:
Adult students must purchase a driving pass through the main office at BSTC. High School Seniors must
receive special permission to drive as bus transportation is normally provided for the student from their base
school. This is handled through BSTC front office. High school students who have permission to drive are to
be released with the adult learners and are expected to go directly to their vehicle unless prearranged study
group or remediation time with the instructor is scheduled after classroom hours.
CENTRA BMH:
Students do not need to pay for a parking pass however they must register their personal vehicle through
the PN office and parking is designated by the hospital’s security staff and is communicated through the PN
program faculty to the student. The student is not to park in patient parking areas. Any ticket received by the
student is at the cost of the student and their responsibility to rectify the ticket through the appropriate
governing authority.
Any breach in safe driving or any offense in school regulations or state driving offences on any of the
school’s sites, school functions, or clinical sites are grounds for removal of driving privileges and in extreme
cases of reckless driving convictions, possible dismissal from the program.
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GRIEVANCE POLICY
Bedford School of Practical Nursing maintains a process in the event of misunderstandings and
disagreements that may occur in issues of academics, policies, and faculty decisions. The grievance policy is
a procedure to obtain fair resolution of such issues. The following is a list of the procedure steps and an
example of the form used for documentation:
1. An appointment is to be made by the student with faculty directly related to the issue to
discuss the issue at hand.
2. After step one has been completed, a meeting may be set with the program director if fair
resolution was not felt to be obtained after one week of the initial step. At this time, the
grievance policy form will be initiated. The student is to communicate with the director and
faculty if they feel there has been a reasonable resolution of the matter after one week of
the initiation of step 2.
3. After one week of initiation of step 2, if the student does not feel resolution has been
obtained in a reasonable degree, the student must communicate to the program director and
the issue will be referred to the BSTC principal to further review the matter. The student will
be notified in writing or by set meeting of any decisions regarding the matter.
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Grievance Procedure form
BEDFORD COUNTY SCHOOL OF PRACTICAL NURSING
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Date of Complaint ___________________________
DESCRIPTION OF INCIDENT/STUDENT
1. Nature of complaint (Give date, time, location, those directly involved, description
of incident, observers, and any other pertinent data written attached).
2. STUDENT: Actions taken at that time
a. Describe your immediate action.
_______________________________________
Signature of Student
3. INSTRUCTOR: Actions taken at that time.
a. Describe your immediate actions.
_______________________________________
Signature of Instructor
4. Actions taken following report of incident.
FINAL RESOLUTION
Signature of Student___________________________________________Date:______
Signature of Instructor__________________________________________Date:______
Signature of Director___________________________________________Date:______
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STUDENT ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES
LIBRARY
A library is maintained at the school of Practical Nursing.
Resources can be obtained upon student request and need dependent on funds available.
Internet is provided through the school as well as technology including desktop, laptop computers, and
Chromebook.
NCSBN Learning Extension is utilized in PN II as part of the Student’s NCLEX Success.
ACTIVITIES: CO-CURRICULAR
CULTURAL AND CIVIC:
Students are encouraged to participate in any and all cultural programs in the local and surrounding
communities.
They assist with various planned civic programs including Elderfest, Centerfest, programs for the middle and
elementary schools, and others as requested. These programs are important pieces of a well-rounded nursing
education. Some of these events occur in the evenings or on weekends. These events are considered
class/clinical time. Attendance requirements for each event are set by the instructors or director.
RELIGIOUS:
There are several churches representing all the major faiths in the community and surrounding areas.
RECREATIONAL:
Many recreational facilities are available in the community and the students are encouraged to use them.
SOCIAL:
Social activities are planned for the students depending upon the needs of the students, their expressed desires
and the regulations of the School Board and Hospital Administration.
SCHOLARSHIPS
There have been several scholarships which our students apply for:
1. Bedford Community Health Foundation- Bedford County residents can apply for these
scholarships
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2. There are other miscellaneous scholarships which have been applied for and welcomed by our
students as they become available.
3. Bedford Science and Technology Center’s nursing programs are Region 2000 Workforce
Development listed providers and have students who are participating in this organization as part of our
programs.
Any information on possible scholarships will be communicated to students as soon as it becomes available.
Bedford School of Practical Nursing
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
During the interval between graduation and the notification of the results of the NCLEX examination, the
graduate may be employed as a practical nursing applicant – LPNA for a period up to 90 days from Board
of Nursing application acceptance. Students need to refer to Virginia Board of Nursing regulation 18VAC90-
19-110.
Employers have the option to not employ nurses until they have received licensure.
BSOPN seeks to introduce the students to a variety of potential employment and career opportunities. If a
student requests additional clinical exposure at a site of interest in their community, our program will work
with the student in obtaining such experiences while following Virginia Board of Nursing state nursing
education guidelines.
Our community facilities often offer to students who are current employees, scholarship opportunities for
continuing nursing education. Our program encourages students to seek these opportunities.
Our program in addition encourages, student attendance to local job fairs and invites potential employers to
guest speak and share about their facility throughout the year, primarily in PN II.
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Last revision date: 5/2/2019
Bedford School of Practical Nursing
STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING
This is to certify that;
I understand that the Practical Nursing Program is divided into two phases – Practical Nursing I
(pre-Clinical Phase) and Practical Nursing II (Clinical Phase).
I understand that if I fail to achieve the minimum grade of “80” in a course, I will not be eligible for
progression in the program. Tuition payments are non-refundable (see Fees and Expenses). A
high school student who fails to achieve the minimum grade of “80” in any course will continue in
the PN I program, fulfilling credit requirements for a high school diploma but will not be permitted
to enter the second year of the PN program.
I understand that throughout the Practical Nursing Program all students are on “probation”. I must
maintain a minimum “80” average in each course, an “80” average in skills lab, and a minimum
“90” four week average for clinical rotations, while acquiring skills in nursing procedures and
conduct myself in an ethical, moral manner suitable for a student of Practical Nursing.
I understand that there is a direct correlation between attendance and success in the program. I,
therefore, understand that I can be dismissed from the program or not allowed to enter the second
year if I do not meet the attendance requirements stated in the PN student handbook regardless of
academic grade.
I also understand that the Clinical Phase of the Practical Nursing Program extends approximately
nine months beyond completion of PN I. If I am promoted to Practical Nursing II and continue to
make a minimum “80” average in each course, conduct myself appropriately, meet the standards
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or clinical performance and clinical grades, I will complete the course and be eligible to take the
licensing exam given by the Virginia State Board of Nursing-(NCLEX).
I understand that I will attend classes during the Preclinical Phase for approximately two hours
daily from the beginning of the Bedford County Public School’s (BCPS) academic year until school
is released in May. I understand that the Clinical Phase of the program is a full-time program
beginning the following August (following BCPS academic calendar) and completed the following
May.
I also understand that all PN students are not permitted to smoke in the building and while on the
grounds of Bedford Science and Technology Center, Bedford Memorial Hospital, Partnering clinical
sites, and at the sites of any program field trips at any time.
I have read the above statements and have read the Bedford School of Practical Nursing
Handbook. I understand that I am also required to follow policies under Bedford County Public
Schools and Bedford Science and Technology Center. I have read these policy handbooks made
available to me on Bedford County Public School’s websites.
By signing this form I agree and state that I have read and agree to adhere to the schools’
policies, rules, and procedures listed in the handbook:
Student Printed Name: ______________________________
Signed _______________________________________________ Date: _____________
(Student Signature)
Parent or Legal Guardian for minors (PN I):
Printed Name: _____________________________________
Signature: _____________________________________ Date: _____________
(Parent/legal guardian)
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