School of Nursing
Mission Statement
Curricula
ADN Program
ADN Course Descriptions
BSN Programs
BSN Generic Track Course Descriptions
BSN Completion
Track Course Descriptions
School of Nursing
Mission Statement
Curricula
ADN Program
ADN Course Descriptions
BSN Programs
BSN Generic Track Course Descriptions
BSN Completion
Track Course Descriptions
L. Julia Ball, School Head
Maggie T. Dorsey, Learning Resource Center Coordinator
Mission Statement
The School of Nursing endeavors to prepare students with the knowledge and
skills necessary for success in a rapidly changing society. The School of
Nursing contributes to the profession of nursing and to the development of
students through: 1) the provision of quality nursing-education that prepares
graduates with the nursing knowledge and competencies necessary to assume
responsible positions in the delivery of health care and 2) the discovery and
creation of knowledge in the discipline of nursing.
The nursing curricula provide a required sequence of courses in nursing as well as required courses in the behavioral, biological, and physical sciences and communications. Learning experiences occur in a variety of settings, including the classroom, science laboratories, nursing skills laboratory, and area health care facilities.
Courses in the BSN completion program build upon the student’s basic nursing program in preparation for practice in a variety of clinical settings.
Distinguished Professor
Trudy G. Groves, RN, GNPC, (Gerontological Nursing), Ed.D., University of
Georgia, 1985
Professors
Lou Gramling, RN (Psychiatric Nursing), Ph.D., Medical College of Georgia,
1991, Ione Wells Hanly/Bank of America Chair in Nursing
Linda Johnston, RN, (Adult Nursing), Ph.D., Medical College of Georgia, 1993
Associate Professors
L. Julia Ball, RN, (Gerontology), Ph.D., University of South
Carolina/Medical University of South Carolina, 1997
Patricia R. Cook, RN, (Adult Nursing), Ph.D., University of South Carolina,
1995, School of Nursing Chair in Surgical Nursing
Janice Cullen, RN, (Adult Nursing), Ed.D. University of South Carolina, 1994
Assistant Professors
Maggie T. Dorsey, RN, (Adult Nursing), M.S.N., Medical College of Georgia,
1981
Phyllis R. Farr-Weinstein, RN, ANP, (Adult Nursing), M.S.N., Medical College of
Georgia, 1984
Thayer McGahee, RN, (Health Care Across the Life Span), Ph.D., Medical College
of Georgia, 1998
Parivash S. Mura, RN, (Maternal-Child), M.S.N., Medical College of Georgia, 1973
Instructors
Peggy A. Morowski, RN, (Nursing Administration), M.S.N., University of
California-San Francisco, 1984
Joyce Pompey, RN, (Adult Nursing), M.S.N., Medical College of Georgia, 1990
Elizabeth Thelan, RN, PNPC, (Pediatric Nursing) M.N., University of South
Carolina, 1994
Jeanne J. Townes, RN, (Community Health) M.S.N., University of South Carolina,
2000
Iris Walliser, RN, (Adult Nursing), M.S.N., University of Alabama Birmingham,
1973
Professors Emeriti
Sandra J. Chubon, RN, (Community Health), Ph.D., University of South
Carolina, 1986
Betty B. Gardner, RN, FNPC, (Maternal-Child), M.N., University of South
Carolina, 1979
Elizabeth A. Hutchins, RN, (Gerontology), Ph.D., University of Washington, 1978
Mary Ann S. Rogers, RN, (Psychiatric Nursing), Ed.D., University of South
Carolina, 1988
Philosophy
Nursing
The Associate in Science in Technical Nursing Degree Program focuses on a
curriculum consistent with the mission of USCA. The ADN Program views nursing as
an art and science with a diverse theoretical base. Nursing is a vital component
of the health care system. Caring is essential in the practice of nursing and is
threaded throughout all aspects of the nursing profession. Through the nursing
process, nurses use critical thinking to provide client-centered care. The
primary purpose of nursing is to holistically promote health across the lifespan
through client teaching, to maintain or restore health, and to promote a
peaceful dying process with dignity, compassion, and respect for the uniqueness
of each individual.
Nursing Education
Undergraduate nursing education serves the purpose of preparing students to enter the profession at the beginning level of nursing practice. The nursing curriculum incorporates knowledge of the biological, social, and behavioral sciences. The curriculum utilizes teaching strategies that promote learning in a diverse group of students with various learning styles. While the learning environment is structured, individuality among students is recognized. Multiple methods of communication are used in the teaching/learning process for students and clients.
Nursing education is based on the belief that the practice of nursing is dynamic and complex, assumes diverse nursing roles, and is found in a variety of settings. Nurses are accountable to society and to the profession of nursing to provide quality, cost effective care. The quality of nursing practice is dependent upon participation in professional nursing organizations and professional development through lifelong learning.
**The complete philosophy and conceptual framework is found in the School of Nursing ADN Faculty Manual and the School of Nursing ADN Student Handbook.
Admission Requirements
The Associate Degree in Nursing major is in the process of being phased out
and is no longer admitting students to this major.
Retention Policy
A minimum grade of C (2.0 GPA) is required in each course in the nursing
curriculum. A student may repeat one clinical nursing course. Failure of a
second clinical course or failure of the clinical component of 2 courses will
result in termination from the nursing program. Appeals for termination are
addressed to the Scholastic Standing and Petitions Committee (see Right of
Petition on page 30). All students must maintain a minimum 2.0 system cumulative
GPA on all USCA courses in order to maintain good standing and progress in the
nursing program. Grades are reviewed at the end of each semester.
Students not
making continuous progress in the clinical nursing courses are not guaranteed
readmission to subsequent clinical nursing courses due to space limitations.
Readmission is coordinated through the ADN Program Coordinator. Progression into
clinical nursing courses subsequent to AANU 101 will be categorized as:
1. USCA continuing students who are progressing successfully through the clinical sequence;
2. USCA continuing students who are out of sequence due to course failures or personal circumstances; and
3. students who desire to transfer into USCA from other nursing programs.
Within each category, students will be ranked according to their cumulative GPA on core ADN program requirements.
Course sequences shall be such that AANU 221
and 202 are taken in the last semester of the student’s academic program. Testing
Throughout the curriculum standardized tests are used to assess students’
progress. Based on the results of these tests, a student may be required to
remediate course content. The remediation work must be fulfilled in order for
the student to progress to the next nursing course. A testing fee will be
charged to students each semester to cover the cost of these tests.
Transfer Policy
The School of Nursing of USCA abides by the statewide transfer and
articulation plan developed for nursing programs within the state of South
Carolina. All previous college course work is reviewed by the program
coordinators for possible credit towards the degree.
Students desiring to transfer into the A.D.N. program must meet the progression policy for the program. Nursing students must meet residency requirements for the university.
Health Requirements
Students are required to meet all health requirements of the University.
When students enter the clinical nursing course sequence, they are required to:
1. provide evidence of a recent physical examination prior to attending clinical courses. Information must be updated annually.
2. provide evidence of annual tuberculosis screening.
3. provide evidence of chicken pox immunity (shown through titer).
4. documentation of vaccination of the following:
a) rubella (positive titer acceptable)
b) diphtheria
c) tetanus
d) polio
e) hepatitis B
Students are encouraged to carry accident and illness insurance.
CPR Completion
All students enrolled in nursing clinicals are required to maintain current
certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (“Health Care Provider” or “CPR
for the Professional Rescuer”).
Drug Policy
The School of Nursing maintains a drug free environment. Details on the drug
policy can be found in the School of Nursing ADN Student Handbook.
South Carolina Student Nurses Association
Faculty of the Associate Degree Program strongly encourage each student to
join the South Carolina Student Nurses Association (SNA). The SNA is the
professional student organization in which members participate in health-related
activities on campus and in the community.
Application for Licensure in Nursing
Prior to completion of the last semester of study, students are expected to
apply for the nursing licensing examination, NCLEX-RN, and licensure by the
South Carolina State Board of Nursing or its counterpart in the jurisdiction
where the student will practice after graduation. Conviction of a crime other
than a minor traffic violation could result in ineligibility for nursing
licensure. Under these circumstances, early notification of the appropriate
state board of nursing is recommended in order to clarify mechanisms related to
determining eligibility.
Attendance Policy
Classroom attendance is expected. Attendance in clinical is required to pass
the course. In the event of an unavoidable absence, the student must give prior
notification to the lab professor. Arrangements for missed/excused work is at
the discretion of the professor.
Americans with Disabilities Act
Specific information related to the ADA can be found in the School of
Nursing ADN Student Handbook.
Student Release Form
Students are required to sign a Student Release Form. This form includes the
following statements:
Ability Statement
Students entering the ADN Program will be required to perform certain skills
requiring specific abilities. See the School of Nursing ADN Student Handbook
for a listing of these abilities.
Resource Information
Information regarding tuition, fees, and length of program is provided to
and available through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC),
61 Broadway, New York, New York 10006, (212) 363-5555.
Program of Study
Associate in Science in Technical Nursing Degree
1. General Education Requirements............................................... 31
A. Skills and Competencies
English 101 and 1021 - Composition and Composition and Literature..............................
6
B. Methods and History of Disciplines
Natural Sciences......................................................................... 16
ABIO 232, Anatomy
ABIO 242, Physiology
ABIO 330, Microbiology
ACHM 101, Introduction to Chemistry
Social/Behavioral Sciences.......................................................... 6
Introductory Psychology
Developmental Psychology (or Lifespan Development)
Humanities2 ................................................................................. 3
Philosophy (not logic),
History, Literature, Fine Arts History,
Religion, Humanities (AHUM acronym),
Selected Language courses,
Communications (last two digits in 50s or 60s)
2. Major Requirements.................................................................. 37
A. AANU
101, 110, 103, 120, 122, 201, 203, 223, 202, 221, 224
Total Credit Hours ADN Program................................................. 68
1 Students must complete English 101 with a
grade of C or better in order to fulfill general education requirements.
Students must also complete AEGL 102 with a grade of C or better in order to
fulfill general education requirements and before taking other English
courses.
2 For a list of courses that will meet the
Humanities general education requirement, see page 31.
Completion of the Associate in Science in Technical Nursing Degree program qualifies the graduate to enroll in the Baccalaureate in Nursing Completion Program the following semester. Enrollment in the baccalaureate program, beyond the first semester, is contingent upon success on the National Council Licensure Examination for RN’s and licensure as a registered nurse.
A challenge examination for AANU 101 and AANU 110 is administered by the School of Nursing at specified times each year. Arrangements to take this exam are made through the Coordinator of AANU 101. Only licensed practical nurses (LPN) are allowed to take this exam. The exam may be attempted only once. LPN students eligible for admission to the clinical nursing course sequence are allowed to take this exam. Students wanting to take the challenge exam must meet criteria for progression into Nursing 103 and 122 which includes grade of C or better in ABIO 232 and ACHM 101. Further information regarding the challenge examination is found earlier in this bulletin under “Academic Regulations” on page 39.
ADN Program (AANU)AANU 101 Fundamentals of Nursing. (4) (Prereq or coreq: ACHM 101, ABIO 232; coreq: AANU 110) Within the framework of the nursing process, this course introduces students to fundamental concepts needed to provide basic nursing care. Experiences in the clinical setting allow students to develop skills and apply these basic concepts. (3 hours lecture and 3 hours lab/week)
AANU 103 Medical Surgical Nursing I. (5) (Prereq: AANU 101; coreq: AANU 120, 122; prereq: or coreq: ABIO 242) Through the use of the nursing process, students focus on specific interventions in the care of adult clients experiencing basic alterations of function. Clinical experience provide the opportunity for implementation of these interventions. (3 hours lecture and 6 hours lab/week)
AANU 110 Nursing Skills. (1) (Coreq: AANU 101) This course will introduce the nursing student to the basic skills needed to provide nursing care. These skills will be learned within a structured skills lab setting. (3 hours lab/week)
AANU 122 Psychiatric Nursing. (4) (Prereq: AANU 101; prereq or coreq: AANU 103, 120, ABIO 242) A survey of mental health problems and nursing interventions, including psychopharmacology. A variety of clinical experiences focus on communication skills as well as relating symptoms to diagnosis and treatment. (2.5 hours lecture and 4.5 hours lab/week)
AANU 202 Seminar. (1) (Coreq: AANU 221, 224) Emphasizes current societal trends and issues directly affecting nursing practice.
AANU 203 Medical Surgical Nursing II. (5) (Prereq: AANU 103, 120, 122, ABIO 242; coreq: AANU 201, 223) Through the use of the nursing process, students implement individualized plans of care for adult clients experiencing alterations in function in selected body systems. Clinical experience provides the opportunity to apply individualized plans of care. (3 hours lecture and 6 hours lab/week)
AANU 221 Medical Surgical Nursing III. (5) (Prereq: AANU 203, 223, 201; prereq or coreq: ABIO 330; coreq: AANU 224, 202) Through the nursing process, students develop individualized plans of care for clients with a focus on multi-system alterations in function. Clinical experience provides the opportunity to function more independently in the delivery of client-centered holistic care. (3 hours lecture and 6 hours lab/week)
AANU 223 Maternity Nursing. (5) (Prereq: AANU 103, 120, 122, ABIO 242; coreq: AANU 201, 203) Students use the nursing process to individualize family-centered maternity care, with clinical experience providing the opportunity to apply these principles. (3 hours lecture and 6 hours lab/week)
AANU 224 Child Health Nursing. (4) (Prereq: APSY 310, AANU 201, 203, 223; prereq or coreq: ABIO 330; coreq: AANU 202, 221) Students use the nursing process to provide family-centered care to the pediatric client and care-giver. In the clinical setting, students utilize concepts of family-centered care in delivering individualized care. (2.5 hours lecture and 4.5 hours lab/per week)
AANU 299 Special Topics in Nursing. (1-3) (Prereq: Consent of instructor) A course on selected special topics in nursing.
Note: Clinical hours for courses in the ADN Program use a ratio of one credit for three hours of laboratory/clinical experience.
The School of Nursing offers the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This program is approved by the South Carolina State Board of Nursing and is fully accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (61 Broadway - 33rd Floor, New York, New York, 10006; Telephone number: 800-669-1656, ext. 153; Fax number: 212-812-0390; e-mail address: www.nlnac.org). The graduate of this program is prepared to practice professional nursing in a variety of settings and has the necessary background for graduate nursing education. For registered nurses desiring to complete the baccalaureate degree, the School of Nursing offers an upper-level curriculum designed to meet the learning needs of graduates of Associate Degree or Diploma Programs in Nursing.
A graduate of the BSN Program at USCA:
1. Provides professional nursing care based on knowledge derived from theory and research.
2. Utilizes critical thinking in the provision of nursing care.
3. Communicates effectively.
4. Accepts responsibility and accountability for functioning within the legal and ethical scope of nursing practice.
5. Demonstrates commitment to the values of caring and diversity.
6. Coordinates the health care of clients across the lifespan in collaboration with other members of the health care team.
7. Applies strategies for health promotion, risk reduction, and disease prevention across the lifespan.
8. Explains the need for lifelong learning.
9. Explains the importance of participation in activities to improve the nursing profession.
Philosophy
The Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing Program views nursing as an art and
science with a diverse theoretical base that is a vital component of health
care. The scientific base of nursing expands as theories are advanced, developed
from practice, tested in practice-based research, and further refined for
practice in a variety of settings. Because the knowledge base for nursing is
continually advancing and health care is evolving, nurses must be prepared for
change. The body of knowledge called nursing is unique; however, it is based in
part on knowledge gleaned from the humanities, social, behavioral, and physical
sciences.
Nursing practice includes the delivery of care to individuals, families, groups, and communities in a variety of settings and the promotion of health and wellness. Nursing care is holistically based and sensitive to the diversity of the clients served and their values.
As members of a profession, nurses function as participants in the health care team in an evolving health care system. Nurses have a responsibility to be knowledgeable and active in political and regulatory processes that impact the definition and implementation of nursing care. Commitment to life-long learning is necessary to maintain competence within the nursing profession.
BSN Generic Track
Admission Requirements
General Admission
Admission to the University of South Carolina Aiken is determined by
standard admission requirements.
Admission to Clinical Nursing Courses
Students in the baccalaureate degree in nursing major may apply for
admission no later than October 1 to begin the clinical nursing course sequence
in the spring semester or March 1 to begin the clinical nursing course sequence
in the fall semester. Enrollment is limited. The following criteria are used for
admission to the clinical nursing course sequence through a competitive
selection process:
• GPA of 2.75 or higher
• completion of 30 designated prerequisite credits in required general education courses prior to the term in which the application is submitted with a grade of ‘C’ or better in all required courses (contact the School of Nursing office or the web site for a list of courses)
• two references
Admission to the baccalaureate degree in nursing major does not guarantee admission to nursing courses. Admission to clinical courses is a competitive process and meeting of minimum admission criteria does not guarantee admission to the nursing courses. Students who are not accepted in the nursing courses must submit a new application for the next admit date and must compete with the new admission group.
Transfer students, change of major students, students with undergraduate degrees, and students returning to the University after an absence of at least 12 months who do not have a GPA of 2.75 may be considered for admission to the clinical nursing courses after meeting the following criteria:
• Successful completion of 15 hours with a 3.0 GPA in USCA courses; or
• Successful completion of 30 hours with a 2.75 GPA in USCA courses.
A suggested course of study is available through the student’s nursing advisor. Any student who has not achieved a 2.75 GPA with 60 attempted semester hours at USCA will not be allowed to remain in the nursing program and will be required to change majors.
Courses designated as professional nursing courses are limited to candidates who have been formally accepted into the USCA nursing program.
Advanced Placement
1. General education courses identified by the University can be used for
advanced placement through CLEP examination. University departmental exams may
be used for advanced placement if offered by the appropriate department and if
the student meets the expected testing level identified by the department.
Progression and Retention
Students enrolled in the BSN major must abide by the following:
1. A grade of ‘C’ or better is required in all courses applied to the degree.
2. Any time that nursing students incur a second failure in the same course in the major requirement, they will be dismissed from the School of Nursing. Any time that nursing students incur two failures in different courses of the major requirement, they will be dismissed from the School of Nursing.
3. A grade of ‘C’ or better in any prerequisite to other courses is required before progression to the next course.
4. A system cumulative GPA of 2.0 must be maintained for continued enrollment in the baccalaureate program.
5. ANRS 411 is required during the last semester of degree work.
6. Students must complete all nursing courses in ten major semesters (fall & spring) after acceptance into the clinical courses.
Student records will be monitored for suspensions at the end of each semester by nursing faculty. Students will be notified of suspension from the BSN program.
Testing
Throughout the curriculum, standardized tests are used to assess students’
progress. Based on the results of these tests, a student may be required to
remediate course content. The remediation work must be fulfilled in order for
the student to progress to the next nursing course. A testing fee will be
charged to students each semester to cover the cost of these tests.
Transfer Credit
Transfer students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better. A Transfer
Credit Summary will be prepared by the Office of Admissions after receipt of a
student’s official transcript from any college previously attended.
1. Students may transfer equivalent courses for the general education requirements. The courses must meet the University requirements for transfer credit.
2. Students may transfer equivalent courses within the nursing major. Junior and senior level BSN courses that are more than five years old cannot be applied toward the BSN degree. The courses must meet the University requirements for transfer credits. The last 30 hours of credit must be earned in residence at the University.
3. The School of Nursing of USCA abides by the statewide transfer and articulation plan developed for nursing programs within the state of South Carolina.
Health Regulations
Students are required to meet health requirements of the University. When
students enter the clinical nursing course sequence, they are required to:
2. provide evidence of annual tuberculosis screening.
3. provide evidence of chickenpox immunity (shown through titer).
4. documentation of vaccination of the following:
b) diphtheria
c) tetanus
d) polio
e) hepatitis B
Students are encouraged to carry accident and illness insurance.
CPR Completion
All students enrolled in nursing courses are required to maintain current
certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (adult, child and infant CPR,
conscious obstructed airway, and unconscious obstructed airway).
Drug Policy
The School of Nursing maintains a drug free environment. Details on the drug
policy can be found in the School of Nursing BSN Student Handbook.
South Carolina Student Nurses Association
Faculty of the Baccalaureate Degree Program strongly encourage each student
to join the South Carolina Student Nurses Association (SCSNA). The SCSNA is
the professional student organization and provides participation in
health-related activities on campus and in the community.
Application for Licensure in Nursing
Prior to completion of the last semester of study, students are expected to
apply for the nursing licensing examination, NCLEX-RN, and apply for
licensure to the South Carolina State Board of Nursing or other Board of
Nursing in the jurisdiction where the student will be employed after
graduation. Conviction of a crime other than a minor traffic violation could
result in ineligibility for nursing licensure. Under these circumstances,
early notification of the appropriate state board of nursing is recommended
in order to clarify mechanisms related to determining eligibility.
Attendance Policy
Classroom attendance is expected. Attendance in clinical is required to pass
the course. In the event of an unavoidable absence, the student must give
prior notification to the lab professor. An arrangement for missed/excused
work is made at the discretion of the professor.
Americans with Disabilities Act
Specific information related to the ADA can be found in the School of
Nursing BSN Student Handbook.
Student Release Form
Students are required to sign a Student Release Form. This form
includes the following statements:
More information on this statement can be found in the School of Nursing BSN Student Handbook.
Ability Statement
Students entering the BSN Program will be required to perform certain skills
requiring specific abilities. See the School of Nursing BSN Student Handbook
for a listing of these abilities.
Resource Information
Information regarding tuition, fees, and length of program is provided to
and available through the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission
(NLNAC), 61 Broadway, New York, New York 10006, (212) 363-5555.
Program of Study
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Generic Track
1. General Education Requirements ....................................................
55
A. Skills and Competencies1
English 101 and 1022 - Composition and Composition
and Literature ...........................................................................
6
Statistics and Math or Logic .......................................................... 6
Applied Speech Communication3.................................................... 3
B. Methods and History of Disciplines4
Natural Sciences ..........................................................................
16
(Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Chemistry5)
Social/Behavioral Sciences .............................................................
9
(Introductory Psychology, Developmental
Psychology, Introductory Sociology)
Humanities5 (at least two areas) ......................................................
9
Philosophy (not logic),
History, Literature, Fine Arts History,
Religion, Humanities (AHUM acronym),
Selected Language courses,
Communications (last two digits in 50s or 60s)
History of Civilization (AHST 101 or AHST 102)............................ 3
American Political
Institutions........................................................... 3
(APLS 201, AHST 201, or AHST 202)
2. Major Requirements ..........................................................................
67
A. ANRS 201, 202,
301, 303, 307, 312, 315, 322, 323, 324, 411, 413, 414, 415, 416, 418
Total hours required4..................................................................................
122
1
For undergraduate writing proficiency, see Proficiency Portfolio in Writing
described on page 45.
2 Students must complete English 101 with a grade of C or better in
order to fulfill general education requirements. Students must also complete
AEGL 102 with a grade of C or better in order to fulfill general education
requirements and before taking other English courses.
3
The following are considered Applied Speech Communication courses: ACOM 201,
ACOM 241, and ACOM 342.
4
At least 3 hours must be in non-Western world studies, unless an approved
non-Western world studies course has been completed elsewhere in the student’s
degree program.
5
The following are accepted for Chemistry: ACHM 101 or ACHM 111.
6
For a list of courses that will meet the Humanities general education
requirement, see page 31.
BSN Generic Track Course Descriptions
BSN Generic Track (ANRS)
ANRS 201 Fundamentals of Nursing. (5) (Prereq: Admission to the professional
program) This course will introduce the nursing student to the theory and
practice related to the application of concepts and skills in providing nursing
care. (3 hour lecture, 6 hours lab/week)
ANRS 202 Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice. (3) (Prereq: Admission to the professional program and C or better in ABIO 330) Theories and concepts that provide the foundation for nursing practice are presented with an emphasis on the health/illness continuum and health promotion. Theories of human development and the concept of health and the nursing process will be integrated to prepare the nurse to work with individuals, families, groups, and communities.
ANRS 301 Pharmacology. (3) (Prereq: ABIO 242) The study of the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of medications with emphasis on nursing implications for patient care.
ANRS 303 Adult Health Nursing. (9) (Prereq: ABIO 330, ANRS 201, ABSN 307, ABSN 312, ANRS 202, AANU 120; coreq: AANU 201) Through the use of the nursing process, students focus on specific interventions in the care of adult clients experiencing alterations in function. (6 lecture hours/ 9 lab hours/per week)
ANRS 307 Health Assessment. (3) (Prereq: ABIO 232, ABIO 242, admission to Baccalaureate in Nursing clinical courses) Introduces the student to a foundation in assessing the physical and psychosocial health status of individuals across the lifespan; assessment skills and selected screening procedures will be applied in a client simulated lab. (2.5 hours lecture/1.5 hours lab/ per week)
ANRS 308 Professional Nursing. (3) (Prereq: RN Licensure and admission to Baccalaureate in Nursing clinical courses) The development of nursing as a professional discipline and science and related issues; introduction to nursing theories, processes and practice roles.
ANRS 312 Pathophysiology. (3) (Prereq: ABIO 232, ABIO 242, admission to Baccalaureate in Nursing clinical courses) Focuses on the pathological bases of disease processes and clinical manifestations of selected diseases.
ANRS 315 Community Health Nursing. (5) (Generic Track Prereq: ANRS 323, ANRS 324; Completion Track Prereq: RN Licensure and ANRS 308 and ANRS 307; Completion Track Co-Req: ANRS 312) Concepts of community health nursing are presented and applied in clinical settings with emphasis on the community and the family as clients. Communicable disease control, principles of epidemiology, health promotion practices, family theories, and public health issues are addressed. (3 hours lecture/ 6 hours lab/ per week)
ANRS 322 Psychiatric Nursing. (5) (Prereq: ANRS 303, ANRS 323, AANU 201) Through the use of the nursing process, students utilize a model of psychodynamics in the restoration, maintenance, and promotion of mental health. Therapeutic communication is included with appropriate clinical experiences. (3 hours lecture/ 6 hours lab/ per week)
ANRS 323 Maternity Nursing. (5) (Prereq: ANRS 201, ABSN 307, ABSN 312, ANRS 202, AANU 120) Students use the nursing process to individualize family-centered maternity care, with clinical experience providing the opportunity to apply these principles. (3 hours lecture/ 6 hours lab/ per week)
ANRS 324 Child Health Nursing. (5) (Prereq: ANRS 303, AANU 201, ANRS 323) Students use the nursing process to provide family-centered care to the pediatric client and the family. (3 hours lecture/ 6 hours lab/ per week)
ANRS 398 Special Topics. (1-3) (Prereq: Consent of instructor) An elective course on selected topics in nursing.
ANRS 411 Leadership and Management. (4) (Generic Track Prereq: ANRS 315, ANRS 413, ANRS 415; Generic Track Coreq: ANRS 416; Completion Track Prereq: Enrollment in BSN Completion and in last semester) Leadership and management concepts and principles for professional nursing practice. Emphasis on knowledge and skills that impact effective and manager role activities. This course will provide for the senior project and must be in the student’s last semester. (3 hours lecture/ 3 hours lab/ per week)
ANRS 413 Nursing Research. (3) (Prereq: ANRS 308 and one of APSY 225 or ASTA 201 or ABUS 296) The course provides an introduction to analytical and critical thinking, scientific concepts, methods and decisions, ethical and legal concerns, and research techniques essential to the research process. Emphasis is placed on the student as a consumer of nursing research.
ANRS 414 Ethical-Legal Issues in Nursing. (3) (Prereq: ANRS 308) This course emphasizes the principles and concepts of ethical theory and the legal basis for nursing practice. Ethical issues affecting nursing practice are examined to provide a basis for students to form intelligent, unbiased, ethical decisions. The legal responsibilities of nursing practice are identified and discussed particularly as they related to ethical dilemmas and safe nursing practice.
ANRS 415 Gerontological Nursing. (5) (Generic Track Prereq: ANRS 324 and ANRS 323; Completion Track Prereq: ANRS 308; Completion Track Prereq. or Coreq: ANRS 315) Theories of human development and the achievement and/or maintenance of healthy life-styles of elders are explored and applied in a variety of settings. (3 hours lecture/ 6 hours lab/ per week)
ANRS 416 Adult Health Nursing II. (4) (Prereq: ANRS 315, ANRS 413, ANRS 415; coreq: ANRS 411) Through the use of the nursing process, students focus on interventions in the care of adult clients experiencing multi-system alterations in function. (2 hours lecture/ 6 hours lab/ per week)ANRS 418 Entry into Practice. (1) (Prereq: ANRS 315, ANRS 415, ABSN 414) Synthesis and critical evaluation of issues related to entry into professional nursing practice. Study of nursing theories and processes as they affect practice roles.
ANRS 420 Nursing Care of the Client with Complex Health Needs. (3) (Prereq: RN Licensure and last semester of nursing) In this course students are expected to synthesize knowledge from all previous courses as care is provided to people with complex health needs in hospitals, clinics, or specialized health care facilities. Critical thinking will guide the student’s ability to identify nursing diagnoses, develop knowledge-based nursing interventions, evaluate outcomes, and revise nursing care for individuals and families. Emphasis is placed on continuity of quality care and on achieving proficiency in assessment, psychomotor, and communication skills, the integration of professional values, and the ability to coordinate care in a variety of settings.
BSN Completion Track
BSN Completion Major Admissions Requirements
1. admission to USCA;
2. Associate of Science degree in nursing or diploma in nursing and South Carolina RN licensure;
3. completion of each of the following courses or their equivalent with a grade of C or better:
A. Biology (ABIO) 232 (Anatomy), 242 (Physiology), 330 (Microbiology)
B. Chemistry (ACHM) 101 (Introduction to Chemistry)
C. English (AEGL) 101 (Composition), 102 (Composition and Literature)
D. Psychology (APSY) 101 (Introductory Psychology), 310 (Developmental Psychology)
E. Sociology 101 (ASCY) (Introductory Sociology)
4. current licensure to practice as a registered nurse in South Carolina;
5. references addressing clinical competency (nursing practice performance) from two recent nursing employers at supervisory level;
6. Cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better
All requirements must be met before admission to the BSN major will be granted.
Transfer Credit
Transfer students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better. A Transfer Credit Summary will be prepared by the Office of Admissions after receipt of a student’s official transcript from any college previously attended.
1. Students may transfer equivalent courses for the general education requirements. The courses must meet the University requirements for transfer credit.
2. Students may transfer equivalent courses within the nursing major. Junior and senior level BSN courses that are more than five years old cannot be applied toward the BSN degree. The courses must meet the University requirements for transfer credits. The last 30 hours of credit must be earned in residence at the University.
3. The School of Nursing of USCA abides by the statewide transfer and articulation plan developed for nursing programs within the state of South Carolina.
Advanced Placement
1. General education courses identified by the University can be used for advanced placement through CLEP examination. University departmental exams may be used for advanced placement if offered by the appropriate department and if the student meets the expected testing level identified by the department.
2. Registered nurses can write the NLN exam for advanced placement in biology courses. If the student meets the expected testing level, advanced placement will be granted.
3. The BSN program offers challenge exams for selected BSN courses (ANRS 312). If the student meets the expected testing level, advanced placement will be granted. A student desiring to write a BSN Challenge Exam must notify the course coordinator at the beginning of the semester prior to the semester the student wishes to write the exam.
Progression and Retention
Students enrolled in the BSN Nursing major must abide by the following:
1. A grade of C is required in all courses.
2. Any time that nursing students incur a second failure in the same course in the major requirement, they will be dismissed from the School of Nursing. Any time that nursing students incur two failures in different courses of the major requirement, they will be dismissed from the School of Nursing.
3. A grade of C or better in any prerequisite to other courses is required before progression to the next course.
4. A system cumulative GPA of 2.0 must be maintained for continued enrollment in the baccalaureate program.
5. ABSN 411 is required during the last semester of degree work.
Student records will be monitored for suspensions at the end of each semester by nursing faculty. Students will be notified of suspension from the BSN program.
Americans with Disabilities Act
Specific information related to the ADA can be found in the School of
Nursing BSN Student Handbook.
Graduation
University guidelines for graduation in effect at the time of admission to
the BSN major will be followed. Students must complete credit hours as
follows:
Program of Study
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
1. General Education Requirements ..................................................
55
A. Skills and Competencies1
English 101 and 1022 - Composition and Composition and
Literature ................................................................................
6
Statistics and Math or Logic ........................................................ 6
Applied Speech Communication3.................................................. 3
B. Methods and History of Disciplines4
Natural Sciences .......................................................................
16
(Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Chemistry)
Social/Behavioral Sciences ..........................................................
9
(Introductory Psychology, Developmental
Psychology, Introductory Sociology)
Humanities5 (at least two areas) ....................................................
9
Philosophy (not logic),
History, Literature, Fine Arts History,
Religion, Humanities (AHUM acronym),
Selected Language courses,
Communications (last two digits in 50s or 60s)
History of Civilization (AHST 101 or AHST 102)........................ 3
American Political
Institutions....................................................... 3
(APLS 201, AHST 201, or AHST 202)
2. Major Requirements ...................................................................... 57
A. Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing
Basic nursing education must include content in the following areas:
Fundamentals of Nursing, Maternal-Child Nursing, Medical-Surgical Nursing
and
Psychiatric Nursing ...................................................................
25
B. Baccalaureate Level Courses:
ANRS 307,
308 .............................................................................. 6
ANRS 312,
315
.............................................................................. 8
ANRS
411, 413
............................................................................. 7
ANRS 414, 415,
420 .................................................................... 11
3. Electives ............................................................................................ 8
Total hours required4.............................................................................
120
1
For undergraduate writing proficiency, see Proficiency Portfolio in Writing
described on page 45.
2
Students must complete English 101 with a grade of C or better in order to
fulfill general education requirements. Students must also complete AEGL 102
with a grade of C or better in order to fulfill general education
requirements and before taking other English courses.
3
The following are considered Applied Speech Communication courses: ACOM 201,
ACOM 241, and ACOM 342.
4
At least 3 hours must be in non-Western world studies, unless an approved
non-Western world studies course has been completed elsewhere in the
student’s degree program.
5
For a list of courses that will meet the Humanities general education
requirement, see page 31.
Student Responsibilities
1. The student is responsible for obtaining the initial required health exam prior to the first clinical course and for completing the annual health questionnaire requirements. Health exams must meet clinical agency requirements including TB screening, documentation of rubella titer (or previous rubella), current tetanus immunization. Health questionnaires and TB screening must be completed on an annual basis following the initial exam.
2. The student is responsible for providing evidence of current liability insurance, current CPR certification and current S.C. licensure to the student’s BSN advisor on registration for a clinical course. Clinical participation will not be permitted and the student will be counted as absent until all required evidence is provided.
3. The student is responsible for transportation to and from clinical resources. Urban and rural areas will be sites of experiences, so access to an automobile to permit home care experiences is expected.
4. USCA name tag will be required for clinical experiences.
5. Class attendance policies of the University will be enforced. The student is encouraged to maintain punctual and regular class attendance.
6. Students are expected to attend all clinical experiences with absences only if unavoidable because of sickness or other cause, rendering attendance impossible. Make up time for clinical absences will be left to the discretion of the faculty and availability of clinical facilities.
7. Students are responsible for input into School of Nursing, BSN Program decision-making through the established School of Nursing Committee Structure.
BSN Completion Track Course Descriptions
BSN Completion Track (ABSN)
Admission to the BSN program is a prerequisite for all courses unless otherwise specified.
ABSN 315 Community Health Nursing. (9) (Prereq: ABSN 307, prereq or coreq: 312). Concepts of community health nursing are presented with emphasis on the community and the family as clients. Communicable disease control, principles of epidemiology, health promotion practices, family theories, and public health issues are addressed. Clinical practice in a variety of community settings is required to enhance students’ understanding of community health nursing roles. (6 hours lecture, 6 hours clinical)
ABSN 411 Leadership and Management. (3) (Prereq or Coreq: NRS 413) Leadership and management concepts and principles for professional nursing practice. Emphasis on knowledge and skills impacting effective leader and manager role activities. The course will provide for the Senior project. Required during last semester. (2 hours lecture, 2 hours lab)
ABSN 415 Gerontological Nursing. (6) (Prereq or Coreq: ABSN 315) Theories of human development and the achievement and/or maintenance of health life-styles of elders are explored and applied in a variety of settings. An in-depth case study integrating concepts from nursing, physical, and behavioral sciences will be required. (3 hours lecture, 6 hours clinical) (Note: this course will not be offered after August 2006.)
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