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COLLEGE OF NURSING AND HEALTH SCIENCES

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN/BSN)

DR F.M. CANSECO SCHOOL OF NURSING

The mission of the Dr. F.M. Canseco School of Nursing is to prepare professional nurses to improve the well being of complex and diverse populations.

Nursing students pursue professional courses based on knowledge of physical, biological and social sciences, the humanities and communication skills. Upon successful completion of requisiste course in these disciplines, students are eligible to apply for admission to the Canseco School of Nursing for clinical nursing coursework.

Students seeking admission to the nursing program must apply directly to the School of Nursing. Admission to the University does not automatically guarantee admission to the School of Nursing.

The Canseco School of Nursing offers a basic (generic) Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with an accelerated track (RN/BSN) for the student who is already a Registered Nurse licensed in Texas.

All prospective nursing students should seek advisement from faculty of the School of Nursing, in order to plan a program of study that meets the needs of the student as well as the requirements of the degree plan. Upon completion of prescribed freshman year coursework, including prerequisite science courses, students should submit a record of their grades in freshman year courses, two letters of reference, the signed "acknowledgment of licensure requirements" form and the School of Nursing application form.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS-BASIC NURSING STUDENTS

Students are eligible for admission to clinical nursing courses when the following requirements have been met:

  1. Acceptance by Texas A&M International University.
  2. Complete application and supporting documentation received by the School of Nursing by September 1.
  3. Completion of pre-nursing courses in the Canseco School of Nursing: NURS 1302 Cultural Determinants of Health and NURS 2310 Nutrition. If nutrition is taken at another college/university it will be evaluated for course transferability.
  4. Completion of at least 35 semester credit hours of core curriculum and support area courses with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for spring entry.
  5. In the event of summer entry, completion of at least 47 semester credit hours of core curriculum and support area courses with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale).
  6. Completion of three of the four required science courses, with a minimum grade of "C" and a grade point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale), for spring entry.
  7. In the event of summer entry, all four required science courses, with a minimum grade of "C" and a grade point average of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale), must be completed.
  8. Prerequisite coursework in the sciences must have been completed within five years of the date of admission to the major. The assessment of dated credits and courses requiring updating will be made by the Admission and Progression Committee of the Canseco School of Nursing.
  9. Score baseline proficiency on the Nurse Entrance Exam: Math 75%, Reading 75% Grammar 75%. The test is administered by the School of Nursing in late September to students meeting criteria 1-8 above. If unsuccessful on the first attempt, a second opportunity to demonstrate proficiency on the exam will be provided in late October to students who have completed 20 clock hours of Plato remediation in each category (Math, Reading, or Grammar) in which they were unsuccessful. A third and final opportunity to demonstrate proficiency on the exam will be provided the following September.
  10. At student expense, verification of drug and criminal background screening by a company or agency designated by the School of Nursing.
  11. Student must have documentation of a current physical examination with no restriction (less than 1 year old), American Heart Association Health Care Provider CPR certification, and the following immunization: DTAP, Varicella or titer, MMR, TB skin test or chest x-ray (less than three years old), Hepatitis B vaccine or informed refusal.

TRANSFER APPLICANTS
Transfer applicants must meet the same academic criteria for admission to Clinical Studies as stipulated above for pre-clinical students. Admission is competitive and contingent on available space. Applicants must meet all admission requirements of the University, and in addition, must meet the following criteria:

  1. Accepted into the school of nursing on space available basis only.
  2. Have a GPA of 2.5 overall on all previous required nursing course work.
  3. Have four required science courses within the last 5 years with a GPA of 2.5.
  4. Pass the HESI entrance exam with a predictive score of 75% or greater on each of the required areas.
  5. Have completed all previous nursing course work within the previous 3 years.
  6. Meet all other university requirements for transfer and be eligible for a degree from TAMIU.
  7. At student expense, verification of drug and criminal background screening by a company or agency designated by the School of Nursing.
  8. Student must have documentation of a current physical examination with no restriction (less than 1 year old), American Heart Association Health Care Provider CPR certification, and the following immunization: DTAP, Varicella or titer, MMR, TB skin test or chest x-ray (less than three years old), Hepatitis B vaccine or informed refusal.

Criteria for acceptance of transfer work is as follows:

  1. Courses taken in nutrition will be evaluated for course transferability.
  2. Courses in foundations and skills will be evaluated for course compatibility with the SON, credit may be given for foundations and skills if grade is C or better.
  3. Introductory medical surgical/adult health nursing, pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, and maternity nursing (if previously taken) must be validated by an exit exam required by the SON for all nursing students. A predictive score of 75% or better is considered passing.

STUDENT SELECTION
If at any time the number of qualified applicants should exceed the faculty and facilities available, the Admission and Progression Committee will determine the final selection of students based upon the completion and grade point average on prerequisite core curriculum and support area courses. Any student who meets admission requirements but is unable to enroll in a given year will be given priority for enrollment the following year.

DECLARATORY ORDER REQUIREMENTS
OF TEXAS BOARD OF NURSE EXAMINERS

A petition for Declaratory Order must be submitted by the nursing candidate/applicant if one of the following criteria apply:
I. For any criminal offense, including those pending appeal, has the candidate/applicant:
A) been convicted of a misdemeanor?
B) been convicted of a felony?
C) pled nolo cotendere, no contest, or guilty?
D) received deferred adjudication?
E) been placed on community supervision or court-ordered probation, whether or not adjudicated guilty?
F) been sentenced to serve jail or prison time? court-ordered confinement?
G) been granted pre-trial diversion?
H) been arrested or have any pending criminal charges?
I) been cited or charged with any violation of the law?
J) been subject of a court-martial; Article 15 violation; or received any form of military judgment/ punishment/action?

(Only exclude Class C misdemeanor traffic violations.)
Note: Expunged and Sealed Offenses: While expunged or sealed offenses, arrests, tickets, or citations need not be disclosed, it is the applicant's responsibility to ensure the offense, arrest, ticket or citation has, in fact, been expunged or sealed. It is recommended that the applicant submit a copy of the Court Order expunging or sealing the record in question with the application. Failure to reveal an offense, arrest, ticket, or citation that is not in fact expunged or sealed, will at a minimum, subject the license to a disciplinary fine. Non-disclosure of relevant offenses raises questions related to truthfulness and character.
NOTE: Orders of Non-Disclosure: Pursuant to Tex. Gov't Code § 552.142(b), if the applicant has criminal matters that are the subject of an order of non-disclosure the applicant is not required to reveal those criminal matters on this form. However, a criminal matter that is the subject of an order of non-disclosure may become a character and fitness issue. Pursuant to other sections of the Gov't Code, chapter 411, the Texas Nursing Board is entitled to access criminal history record information that is the subject of an order of non-disclosure. If the Board discovers a criminal matter that is the subject of an order of non-disclosure, even if the applicant properly did not reveal that matter, the Board may require that the applicant provide information about any conduct that raises issues of character.

In addition a petition for Declaratory Order must be submitted if the nursing candidate/applicant answers YES to the following questions:
II. Are you currently the target or subject of a grand jury or governmental agency investigation?
III. Has any licensing authority refused to issue you a license or ever revoked, annulled, cancelled, accepted surrender of suspended, placed on probation, refused to renew a license, certificate or multi-state privilege held by you now or previously, or ever fines, censured, reprimanded or otherwise disciplined you?
IV. Within the past five (5) years have you been addicted to and/or treated for the use of alcohol or any other drug?*
V. Within the past five (5) years have you been diagnosed with, treated, or hospitalized for schizophrenia and/or psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, paranoid personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, or borderline personality disorder?*
If "YES" is answered to any question I-V, the applicant must provide a signed and dated letter describing the incidence(s) that is being reported to the Texas Board of Nursing. The applicant may indicate "NO" if he/she has completed and/or is in compliance with Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses (TPAPN) for substance abuse or mental illness.

Documentation requirements and forms for Declaratory Order Application may be found at http://bon.state.tx.us/olv/pdfs/DOapp.pdf


ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS-RN/BSN STUDENTS
Registered Nurses seeking admission to the RN/BSN program apply directly to the School of Nursing. Admission to the University does not automatically guarantee admission to the School of Nursing. All students entering the RN/BSN track are considered transfer students and accepted into the BSN program on a space available basis. In addition to completing all requirements for general admission to the University, the student must meet the following criteria:

  1. Completion of a School of Nursing Application (in addition to the University application form).
  2. Acceptance by Texas A&M International University.
  3. Evidence of current licensure without restrictions as a Registered Nurse in Texas.
  4. A 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or better cumulative grade point average (GPA) in all previous subjects taken.
  5. A 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or better cumulative grade point average (GPA) in all previous nursing coursework.
  6. A personal interview with the Nursing Admissions and Progression Committee may be required.
  7. All University core coursework completed before taking the final semester of nursing coursework.
  8. At student expense, verification of drug and criminal background screening by a company or agency designated by the School of Nursing.
  9. Students must have documentation of a current physical examination with no restriction (less than 1 year old), American Heart Association Health Care Provider CPR certification, and the following immunization: DTAP, Varicella or titer, MMR, TB skin test or chest x-ray (less than three years old), Hepatitis B vaccine or informed refusal.
  10. RN/BSN students may enter the fall or spring semester. If entering in spring, the initial course(s) will be NURS 3590 (Bridge), NURS 3302 (Cultural Determinants), and NURS 4363 (Issues in Nursing Management). If entering in the fall, students will take NURS 3314 (Pathophysiology) and NURS 3315 (Health Assessment).
  11. Requests for exceptions from GPA or other admission requirements, supported by evidence of extenauting circumstances, will be considered by the School of Nursing Admissions and Progression Committee only after an official School of Nursing Application has been filed. Such consideration for exceptions will be based on the individual student's work performance, academic record, and motivation to continue professional advancement.
  12. At the time of entry, the student will be assigned a faculty advisor and be given a degree plan for completion of courses. Any change in degree plan must be made in writing and approved by the appointed advisor. All changes are subject to space availability

STUDENT HEALTH REQUIREMENTS FOR CLINICAL NURSING COURSES
In order to be eligible for coursework involving direct patient care experiences all students must provide evidence of current Rubella, Varicella, and DT immunization, PPD or chest X-ray, Hepatitis B vaccines or signed informed refusal, and current physical examination certifying good health/no restrictions.

CORE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS*

The Texas A&M International Dr. F.M. Canseco School of Nursing has adopted the following Core Performance standards for Admission and Progression in compliance with the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Issue
Standard
Some Examples of
Necessary Activities
(not all inclusive)
Critical Thinking Critical thinking ability sufficient for clinical judgement. Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations, developing nursing care plans.
     
Interpersonal Interpersonal abilities sufficient to interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds. Establish rapport with patients/clients and colleagues.
     
Communication Communication ablities sufficient for interaction with others in verbal and written form. Explain treatment procedures, initiate health teaching, document and interpret nursing actions and patient/client responses.
     
Mobility Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room and maneuver in small spaces. Move around in patients' rooms, work spaces, and treatment areas; administer cardiopulmonary procedures.
     
Motor Skills Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care. Calibrate and use equipment; position patients/clients.
     
Hearing Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess health needs. Hear monitor alarm, emergency signals, auscultatory sounds, cries for help.
     
Visual Visual ability sufficient for observation and assessment necessary in nursing care. Observe patient/client responses.
     
Tactile Tactile ability sufficient for physical assessment. Perform palpation, functions of physical examinations and/or those related to therapeutic intervention, e.g., insertion of catheter.
     

* Developed by the Southern Council on Collegiate Education for Nursing (SCCEN), March 1993.

GRADING POLICIES
The Canseco School of Nursing has adopted a grading scale in line with other Texas Schools of Nursing, as required by the Board of Examiners:

A- 93-100
B- 84-92
C- 75-83
*D- 70-74

Nursing students must achieve a grade of C or better and pass both clinical and theory components of a course in order to pass that course.
(*In some cases, students may receive a non-passing grade of D in prenursing courses.)

ATTENDANCE POLICY
The Canseco School of Nursing adheres to the Texas A&M International University classroom attendance policy as stated in the current catalog. In addition, each course has specific attendance requirements for both classroom and clinical activities in order to comply with accreditation requirements.

COURSE POLICIES
Each course syllabus includes a statement of course policies. These may be more, but not less, stringent than overall school or university policies.

BSN PROGRAM ADD, DROP, WITHDRAW, AND INCOMPLETE
The School of Nursing follows the general policies of Texas A&M International University as outlined in the catalog with respect to add, drop, withdrawal and incomplete grades. In addition the following policies apply to Nursing Courses:

  1. The faculty of the School of Nursing supports the idea that the use of an "I" or "W" to hide unsuccessful performance is inappropriate.
  2. After the 10th week or 2/3 of class both the course faculty and the Dean must approve the withdrawal. Adds or drops must be signed by School of Nursing faculty.
  3. All students must maintain a satisfactory (2.00) grade point average:
    1. Cumulative (includes General Education/Liberal Arts and Nursing).
    2. Professional (includes only nursing courses). It should be noted that admission to a master's program usually requires a 3.0 GPA in the major at the baccalaureate level.
  4. Students must achieve a "C" (2.00) or better in each nursing course. A student may not continue in subsequent courses for which the failed course is prerequisite until a minimum of "C" has been achieved.
  5. A student receiving an "F" grade in either the theory or the clinical portion of any nursing course will fail the course.
  6. Students may repeat a nursing course, as space is available, only once to raise the grade to "C" or above,
  7. Students will automatically and permanently be ineligible to continue in the nursing program if:
    1. Two F's are earned in the same nursing course.
    2. Any nursing course is taken three times, withdrawal or failure or combination of both, without earning a "C" or better.
    3. There is failure of two nursing courses, excluding NURS 1302, NURS 2310 and NURS 4290.
  8. Students may receive an "I" (incomplete) in a course, in keeping with TAMIU policy. The student and course faculty will contract for completion of course requirements.
  9. Students who are unable to maintain active continuous enrollment at TAMIU School of Nursing must apply for a Leave of Absence from the School in order to remain in good standing. Such students will be permitted to re-enter the School of Nursing on a space available basis and will be given priority for available space.

ACADEMIC PROBATION
Probationary status is a warning to a student to improve his/her academic performance in order to remain in the program.

  1. A student is placed on probation if she/he does not maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.00. The final grade report will carry official notice of academic probation.
  2. A student is placed on probation if she/he does not maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.00 in nursing courses. The School of Nursing notifies the student of professional probation.
  3. A GPA must be returned to minimum of 2.00 to remove probationary status. Students will have 30 semester credit hours in which to remove probationary status.
  4. Restriction: Students on probation are not eligible to represent the School of Nursing in any student activity/committees.
  5. Students who fail to attain a 2.00 cumulative grade point average for two full-time consecutive semesters will be suspended from the School of Nursing.
  6. Students suspended from clinical studies because of a low grade point average may return after a semester on a space available basis and take prescribed courses to raise their grade point average. Students unable to raise their grade point average to 2.00 within one semester after returning from suspension will be dismissed from the School of Nursing.
  7. Students may also be dismissed from clinical studies for any of the following reasons:
    1. Academic misconduct such as any act of dishonesty involving academic work.
    2. Unsafe clinical practice.
    3. Falsification of credentials.
    4. Conduct unbecoming to a student as described in the University Student Conduct Code.
  1. Academic suspensions and dismissals are nonreversible. However, a student may appeal the course grade which resulted in suspension or dismissal within one semester of the award of the grade. (See grievance procedure.)

RE-ADMISSION TO THE SCHOOL OF NURSING
Students not enrolled in Clinical Nursing Courses for two consecutive semesters or formally dismissed will be placed on inactive status. Applicants for re-admission to the School of Nursing must be eligible for re-admission to the University. Decisions will be made by the School of Nursing Admissions Committee. The deadlines for regular admission apply to studentsseeking re-admission. However, admission will be on a space available basis. Re-admission application materials are available from the Office of the Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
The School of Nursing adheres to all general requirements and procedures of the university for graduation. For deadlines and requirements, see TAMIU catalog. In their final year, students need to verify with their advisors that all requirements for graduation and/or honors have been met. In addition, students are eligible to apply for graduation when the following conditions are met:

  1. completion of required semester credit hours
  2. a cumulative GPA of 2.00
  3. completion of all clinical studies coursework

ELIGIBLITY FOR GRADUATION IN BASIC NURSING
Satisfactory performance on diagnostic examinations designated by the School of Nursing to validate potential successfulperformance on the National Council Licensure Examination is required for basic students to be eligible for graduation.

  1. All students in the final semester of the clinical nursing program will enroll in NURS 4290: Senior Lab Seminar.
  2. At the beginning of the final semester, students will be administered a diagnostic examination by the School of Nursing.
  3. Upon receipt of the resulting diagnostic profile, each student will be counseled by the faculty advisor to identify areasof strength and weaknesses. The student and faculty will develop a contract for an individualized plan to assist in meeting the student's needs.
  4. A comprehensive examination will be administered during the final semester. To be eligible to write the comprehensiveexamination, the student must provide evidence that the terms of the contract have been met.
  5. Students who fail to demonstrate satisfactory performance on the comprehensive examination will not be eligiblefor graduation.
  6. A student who does not achieve satisfactory performance on the comprehensive examination will be required to re-enroll in NURS 4290: Senior Seminar and retake the exit examination at the end of the course. If satisfactory performance is not achieved on the second attempt at the course NURS 4290, the student will not be eligible for a degree.

Degree Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

  1. Hours Required: A minimum of 120 semester credit hours (SCH): 45 hours must be advanced, and fulfillment of degree requirements as specified in the Requirements for Graduation and the Dr. F.M. Canseco School of Nursing sections of this catalog.
  2. University Core Curriculum: 41 SCH as outlined in the suggested plans and as specified in the Requirements for Graduation. Wellness/Activity requirements met within nursing courses.
  3. Other Education Requirements: 11 SCH including BIOL 2415, CHEM 1406 and MATH 1342 .
  4. Major: 68 SCH. Nursing courses for the Basic BSN include NURS 1302, 2310, 2312, 2413, 3305, 3314, 3315, 3525, 3526, 3558, 3665, 4290, 4340, 4363, 4570, 4622, and 4665.
  5. Nursing courses for RN/BSN include NURS 3302, 3305, 3314, 3315, 3590, 4340, 4363, 4570, and 4622.

 

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