Graduate student handbook

OSN Graduate Degree programs

(updated 7/31/20)

The Orvis School of Nursing (OSN) at the University of Nevada, Reno offers Master’s and Doctoral education in nursing. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree offers the following: BSN to DNP with specialty tracks of Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Education Leadership, Nurse Executive/Clinical Nurse Leadership, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Post-Master’s DNP for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Clinical Education Leadership, Health Policy, or Nurse Executive. 

Once admitted to a DNP track, a student is committed to that track. Should the student wish to change or transfer to a different track than which they were originally admitted, the student is required to contact the Associate Dean for Graduate programs at the Orvis School of Nursing to re-apply for admission to the track to which the student wants, during the next application cycle. The DNP tracks are competitive and there is no guarantee a current student will be automatically accepted to a different track through the re-admission process.

In addition, the OSN offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree with the following options: MSN Generalist, Nurse Educator, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Clinical Nurse Leader. Advanced Graduate (Post-Master’s) Certificates are also offered for each of the specialty track options with the exception of Adult Gerontology Primary Care.

Once admitted to a MSN track, a student is committed to that track. Should the student wish to change or transfer to a different track than which they were originally admitted, the student is required to contact the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs and re-apply for admission to the track to which the student wants during the next application cycle. The MSN tracks are very competitive and there is no guarantee a current student will be automatically accepted to a different track through the re-admission process.

DNP Overview

The DNP differs from the PhD in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Science degrees, by emphasizing advanced clinical practice, implementation of best practices, and evaluation of practice and care delivery models rather than individually initiated, original research.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree is designed to be a terminal practice degree for clinically practicing nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives and nursing leaders in health care organizations. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) suggests that the current level of preparation necessary for advanced nursing practice be moved from the master's degree to the doctorate level by the year 2025. The Institute of Medicine's 2003 report on Health Professions Education recommended strategies for restructuring all clinical education in the health professions to be consistent with the principles of 21st century health systems. These recommendations stressed that health science students and all working professionals develop and maintain proficiency in 5 core areas: delivering patient-centered care, working as part of interdisciplinary teams, practicing evidence-based medicine, focusing on quality improvement, and using information technology.

Graduates of the program receive a Doctor of Nursing Practice. BSN to DNP students in nurse practitioner tracks with the exception of the PMHNPs are required to attend a 4-5 day on-campus immersion the first week of the summer prior to the start of their clinical rotations. Both the DNP Project Proposal defense and the final defense of the DNP Project will be conducted through a ZOOM meeting. Students may come to campus for their defenses if they wish. The programs vary between 68-72 credits, depending on the specialty track chosen and takes 8-12 semesters to complete, including summers depending on full- or part-time study. 

For the Post-Master’s DNP students both the defense of the proposed DNP Project and the final defense of the DNP Project will be conducted through a ZOOM meeting. Students may come to campus for their defenses if they wish. The program is 30 credits, all coursework is online, and takes five semesters to complete including one summer for full time study and eight semesters for part time including two summers. 

The University of Nevada, Reno OSN DNP program prepares graduates for advanced clinical practice and leadership roles to serve the health care needs of the people of Nevada, the nation, and the professional community. DNP graduates are equipped to assume a wide range of leadership roles in both direct and indirect health care settings. DNP graduates may function as specialists in their advanced practice clinical roles, nursing faculty, or as healthcare executives, program and policy analysts.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing essentials

In accordance with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the Doctor of Nursing Practice at the Orvis School of Nursing follows the guidelines set forth in The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education. “The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education provides a framework for preparing individuals as members of the discipline of nursing, reflecting expectations across the trajectory of nursing education and applied experience. In this document competencies for professional nursing practice are made explicit. These Essentials introduce 10 domains that represent the essence of professional nursing practice and the expected competencies for each domain (see page 26). The domains and competencies exemplify the uniqueness of nursing as a profession and reflect the diversity of practice settings yet share common language that is understandable across healthcare professions and by employers, learners, faculty, and the public. The competencies accompanying each domain are designed to be applicable across four spheres of care (disease prevention/promotion of health and wellbeing, chronic disease care, regenerative or restorative care, and hospice/palliative/supportive care), across the lifespan, and with diverse patient populations. While the domains and competencies are identical for both entry and advanced levels of education, the sub-competencies build from entry into professional nursing practice to advanced levels of knowledge and practice. The intent is that any curricular model should lead to the ability of the learner to achieve the competencies. The Essentials also feature eight concepts that are central to professional nursing practice and are integrated within and across the domains and competencies” (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2021, p. 1).

The essentials domains and concepts

Domains:

1. Knowledge for Nursing Practice
2. Person-Centered Care
3. Population Health
4. Scholarship for Nursing Discipline
5. Quality and Safety
6. Interprofessional Partnerships
7. Systems-Based Practice
8. Informatics and healthcare Technologies
9. Professionalism
10. Persona, Professional, and Leadership Development

Concepts:

1. Clinical Judgement
2. Communication
3. Compassionate Care
4. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
5. Ethics
6. Evidence-Based Practice
7. Health Policy
8. Social Determinants of Health (AACN, 2021, pp. 10-14)

Terminal objectives

At the conclusion of the University of Nevada DNP program, graduates will:

1. Create a systematic approach to clinical reasoning based on best evidence, research, and knowledge from nursing and other disciplines to make decisions which optimize the health of populations and the delivery of care across a range of sociocultural settings
2. Role model communication strategies and teamwork to intentionally collaborate with interprofessional teams, individuals, groups, and populations across a range of sociocultural settings to advocate for diverse, equitable, and inclusive care in professional environments.
3. Assumes innovative leadership roles in the analysis, delivery and management of nursing practice and the micro through macro levels of health care systems (DNP)
4. Assumes leadership roles in the analysis, delivery and management of nursing practice and the micro through meso levels of health care systems (MSN)
5. Evaluate quality improvement principles, standards, methods, and strategies to identify health and systems problems and translate evidence-based change in practice settings.
6. Analyze systematic processes across settings using evidenced-based strategies and standards, to promote a just culture of safety, and to prevent or minimize risk to self, patients, and environment. 
7. Appraise health care technology, data, and information literacy, while considering risks and ethical requirements, to plan, implement, and evaluate person and population-centered care and assist in system-wide best practice decisions in a variety of settings.
8. Integrate person and population-centered care that is respectful of differing sociocultural needs based on best evidence, clinical judgment, and sound legal/ethical principles to maximize health for diverse individuals, groups and populations.
9. Expand professional identity through leadership and advocacy that promotes the needs of self, individuals, groups and populations and the nursing profession while improving the healthcare system.

BSN to DNP and Post-Master’s DNP Curriculum Options

For any questions related to the Graduate curriculum, students may contact the individual track leaders or Dr. Stephanie DeBoor, the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs.

BSN to DNP, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)

(Approved by UCCC, 5/21/2013)

  Contact: Dr. Jackie Ferdowsali

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) track of the BSN to DNP program prepares nurses to provide advanced practice in acute care settings through a program of study focused on the care of acutely ill patients and their families. An AGACNP can diagnose and treat medical conditions. In collaboration with the physician and other members of the health care team, AGACNPs provide direct care to patients from hospital admission through discharge. With an increasing inpatient population of acutely and critically, research has shown that nurse practitioners within these settings demonstrated evidence of reducing length of stay, hospital costs, and patient complications (Fry 2011), while improving communication among the heath care team, along with patient and family satisfaction. There are 72 credits and 780 specialty specific practicum hours required for this track and an additional 240 DNP Project and Residency practicum hours. Upon competition of the DNP/AGACNP, the graduate is eligible to sit for national certification with AACN or ANCC upon graduation.

BSN to DNP AGACNP Plans of Study: Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

BSN to DNP, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)

(Approved by UCCC 9/5/2019)

Contact: Professor Megan Pratt 

The Adult Gero Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program prepares nurses to provide advanced practice in primary care settings through a program of study focused on the care of adult and geriatric patients. This specialty provides the full spectrum of primary care health care services to include health promotion, disease prevention, health protection, anticipatory guidance, counseling, disease management, palliative, and end-of-life care. AGPCNP’s can function in autonomous and collaborative roles guided by appropriate nurse practice acts. Provide primary care to Adult and Geriatric individuals, their families and communities. Focus on health promotion and maintenance for clients. Utilize the process and method of scientific inquiry in the study of nursing. Contribute to the development of nursing science and pursue opportunities for enhancement of advance practice. There are 660 required practicum hours for this specialty track. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification.

BSN to DNP AGPCNP Plans of Study: Full and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

(Approved by UCCC, 5/21/2013)

 Contact: Professor Megan Pratt

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track of the BSN to DNP and Post-Master’s program prepares students to provide primary care across the lifespan to individuals, families, and communities. FNPs practice within private and clinic settings as well as urgent care facilities. FNPs focus on health promotion and maintenance, and function in autonomous and collaborative roles guided by appropriate nurse practice acts. There are 76 credits and 780 specialty specific, practicum hours required for this track and an addition 240 DNP Project and Residency practicum hours. Upon competition of the DNP/FNP, the graduate is eligible to sit for national certification with AANP or ANCC following graduation.

BSN to DNP FNP Plan of Study full and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

BSN to DNP Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PACNP)

(Approved by UCCC, 11/24/2020)

Contact: Dr. Patty Ozuna 

The Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner provides holistic care for pediatric patients with acute, complex, critical, and chronic illness across a variety of care settings including hospitals, intensive care units, subspecialty clinics, emergency departments, and the patient's home. Practitioners work independently and collaboratively to ensure quality health care. Another part of the NP's role is to assist the patient and family in negotiating health care delivery systems. Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board's CPNP-AC exam, which validates entry-level knowledge of graduates.

BSN to DNP PACNP Plan of Study Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

(Approved by UCCC, 5/21/2013)

Contact: Dr. Debbie Arnow

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track prepares advanced practice nurses to care for individuals and families with behavioral and mental problems. This specialty track within the BSN to DNP and Post-Master’s program prepares graduates to assess, diagnose, intervene (e.g. psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy), and provide follow-up to facilitate ongoing levels of wellness. The PMHNP is prepared to provide psychiatric and mental health care in a variety of treatment settings (e.g. hospitals, jails, home care, and outpatient clinics) and participate with other members of the health care team. With a shortage of mental health professionals and increasing demand for expert mental health care in rural health settings, the PMHNPs scope of practice brings critically relevant skills needed to care for persons experiencing the full range of psychiatric and mental health problems. There are 76 credits and 720 specialty specific, practicum hours required for this track and an addition 240 DNP Project and Residency practicum hours. Upon competition of the DNP/PMHNP, the graduate is eligible to sit for national certification with ANCC upon graduation. 

BSN to DNP PMHNP Plan of Study Full- and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

BSN to DNP Clinical Education Leadership

(Approved by UCCC, 5/10/2022)

Contact: Dr. Rochelle Walsh

The Clinical Education Leadership program integrates scientific findings, nursing and learning theories, informatics, and technology into the development and evaluation of curricula and educational programs in diverse educational settings. This program prepares nurses to become professional development and/or educational leaders within clinical agencies and academic settings. Upon competition of the DNP, the graduate is eligible to sit for national certification with NLN for the CEN, or ANCC for the NPD upon graduation. 

BSN to DNP Clinical Education Leadership Plan of Study Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

BSN to DNP Nurse Executive/Clinical Nurse Leader

(Approved by UCCC, 5/10/2022)

Contact: Dr. Zhizhong Li 

The Nurse Executive/Clinical Nurse Leader program prepares nurses as healthcare systems specialists to assume leadership roles in clinical practice or administration and be effective leaders for health care delivery. Students develop in-depth knowledge of interprofessional collaboration, information systems and healthcare technology, and the analysis, synthesis, translation, and dissemination of scientific and evidence-based professional literature. Learning experiences provided include design and implementation of quality improvement and practice change projects, systematic and comprehensive investigation of topics related to population health, healthcare systems, and coordination of complex patient care. Upon competition of the DNP, the graduate is eligible to sit for national certification with AACN for the CNL and AONL for the CNM or CENP. 

BSN to DNP Nurse Executive/Clinical Nurse Leader Plan of Study Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Post Master’s DNP for Advanced Practice, Educators, Health Policy and Nurse Executives

(Approved by UCCC, 5/21/2013)

Contact: Dr. Carrie Hintz

The post-master’s DNP program is offered ONLINE with a virtual orientation at the beginning of the program of study. The program is five semesters long with one summer session, or can be spread out over additional semesters if needed to adjust to the working nurse’s schedule. Total credits are 30, with an ongoing change project (capstone) occurring throughout the program. Both the DNP Project Proposal defense and the final defense of the DNP Project will be conducted through a ZOOM meeting. Students may come to campus for their defenses if they wish. Practicum hours are completed during the Residency course (NURS 765). This residency provides students the opportunity to apply program concepts and develop and implement strategies for practice-level and/or system-wide practice initiatives to improve the quality of care.

Post Master’s DNP for Advanced Practice: Full and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Post Master’s DNP for Clinical Education Leadership: Full and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Post Master’s DNP for Health Policy: Full and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Post Master’s DNP for the Nurse Executive: Full and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program description

Graduate education at the MSN level prepares registered nurses for advanced practice, educator, and leadership positions in health care. MSN level study develops clinical competence and increased sophistication in exploring and identifying a theoretical framework for nursing practice. MSN education also serves as an introduction to scholarly activity for those who wish to pursue a doctoral degree in nursing. Research focuses on the search of nursing knowledge, analysis and evaluation of nursing theory, and the study of strategies for nursing application. MSN education provides students with the opportunity to realize their creative potential and collaborate with other health care professionals in maintaining effective nursing and health care. Graduate Program Terminal Objectives are based on the revised AACN Essentials.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) AACN essentials

In accordance with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (2021) the Master of Science in Nursing program and specialty tracks at the Orvis School of Nursing follows the guidelines set forth in The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education. “The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education provides a framework for preparing individuals as members of the discipline of nursing, reflecting expectations across the trajectory of nursing education and applied experience. In this document competencies for professional nursing practice are made explicit. These Essentials introduce 10 domains that represent the essence of professional nursing practice and the expected competencies for each domain (see page 26). The domains and competencies exemplify the uniqueness of nursing as a profession and reflect the diversity of practice settings yet share common language that is understandable across healthcare professions and by employers, learners, faculty, and the public. The competencies accompanying each domain are designed to be applicable across four spheres of care (disease prevention/promotion of health and wellbeing, chronic disease care, regenerative or restorative care, and hospice/palliative/supportive care), across the lifespan, and with diverse patient populations. While the domains and competencies are identical for both entry and advanced levels of education, the sub-competencies build from entry into professional nursing practice to advanced levels of knowledge and practice. The intent is that any curricular model should lead to the ability of the learner to achieve the competencies. The Essentials also feature eight concepts that are central to professional nursing practice and are integrated within and across the domains and competencies” (AACN, 2021, p.1)

The Essentials Domains and concepts

Domains:

1. Knowledge for Nursing Practice
2. Person-Centered Care
3. Population Health
4. Scholarship for Nursing Discipline
5. Quality and Safety
6. Interprofessional Partnerships
7. Systems-Based Practice
8. Informatics and healthcare Technologies
9. Professionalism
10. Persona, Professional, and Leadership Development

Concepts:

1. Clinical Judgement
2. Communication
3. Compassionate Care
4. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
5. Ethics
6. Evidence-Based Practice
7. Health Policy
8. Social Determinants of Health (AACN, 2021, pp. 10-14)

MSN program student learning outcomes

The following are the revised (2012) terminal objectives for the MSN program of study. 

1. Create a systematic approach to clinical reasoning based on best evidence, research, and knowledge from nursing and other disciplines to make decisions which optimize the health of populations and the delivery of care across a range of sociocultural settings
2. Role model communication strategies and teamwork to intentionally collaborate with interprofessional teams, individuals, groups, and populations across a range of sociocultural settings to advocate for diverse, equitable, and inclusive care in professional environments.
3. Assumes innovative leadership roles in the analysis, delivery and management of nursing practice and the micro through macro levels of health care systems (DNP)
4. Assumes leadership roles in the analysis, delivery and management of nursing practice and the micro through meso levels of health care systems (MSN)
5. Evaluate quality improvement principles, standards, methods, and strategies to identify health and systems problems and translate evidence-based change in practice settings.
6. Analyze systematic processes across settings using evidenced-based strategies and standards, to promote a just culture of safety, and to prevent or minimize risk to self, patients, and environment. 
7. Appraise health care technology, data, and information literacy, while considering risks and ethical requirements, to plan, implement, and evaluate person and population-centered care and assist in system-wide best practice decisions in a variety of settings.
8. Integrate person and population-centered care that is respectful of differing sociocultural needs based on best evidence, clinical judgment, and sound legal/ethical principles to maximize health for diverse individuals, groups and populations.
9. Expand professional identity through leadership and advocacy that promotes the needs of self, individuals, groups and populations and the nursing profession while improving the healthcare system.

(Accepted by OSN Faculty and UCCC Approved 2/6/12)

MSN and Advanced Graduate Certificate (Post-Master’s) curriculum options

For any questions related to the Graduate curriculum, students may contact the individual track leaders or Dr. Stephanie DeBoor, the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs.

Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) 

Contact: Professor Zhizhong Li

The MSN program at the University of Nevada, Reno is designed to prepare graduates in the emerging role of the Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL). In response to healthcare and consumer needs, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing proposed the advanced practice role of the CNL in order to prepare effective leaders for health care delivery systems to work within all settings. A beginning CNL graduate would encompass the roles of clinician, outcomes manager, client advocate, educator, information manager, systems analyst, risk anticipator, team manager, member of a profession, and life-long learner (AACN, 2007). After successful completion of the Orvis School of Nursing MSN degree requirements (including a total of 420 clinical hours; a minimum of 300 hours in a supervised CNL role immersion practicum with an academic/practice partner), the CNL track graduate would meet the educational requirements to sit for the AACN CNL Certification Examination.

BSN to DNP option for Nurse Executive/Clinical Nurse Leadership found on page 10 of handbook.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Clinical Nurse Leader Track Full and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Clinical Nurse Leader, Advanced Graduate (Post-Master’s) Certificate Program Note: This program is open to nurses with a master's degree in nursing. The student may sit for national certification upon graduation. Full and part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Nurse Educator

(updated 10/31/13)

Contact: Dr. Rochelle Walsh

The Nurse Educator Track of the MSN program integrates scientific findings, nursing and learning theories, informatics, and technology into the development and evaluation of curricula and educational programs in diverse educational settings. Graduates provide ethical, evidence-based nursing education services for multi-cultural and ethnically diverse, students, staff, families, select populations, and communities. There are 420 required practicum hours for this specialty track. The student may sit for national certification upon graduation.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Educator Track Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Nurse Educator, Advanced Graduate (Post-Master’s) Certificate Program Note: This program is open to nurses who have already earned a master's degree in nursing. Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

BSN to DNP option for Clinical Education Leadership found on page 10 of handbook.

Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)

(Approved by UCCC, 5/21/2013)  

Contact: Dr. Jackie Ferdowsali

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) track of the MSN program prepares nurses to provide advanced practice in acute care settings through a program of study focused on the care of acutely ill patients and their families. An AGACNP can diagnose and treat medical conditions. In collaboration with the physician and other members of the health care team, AGACNPs provide direct care to patients from hospital admission through discharge.

There are 780 required practicum hours for this specialty track. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification.

Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program requirements can be located in the University catalog. Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Graduate (Post-Master’s) Certificate Program Note: This program is open to nurses with a master's degree in nursing and requires a minimum of 500 practicum hours depending on previous MSN preparation. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification. Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)

(Approved by UCCC 9/5/2019)

Contact: Professor Megan Pratt

The Adult Gero Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) program prepares nurses to provide advanced practice in primary care settings through a program of study focused on the care of adult and geriatric patients. This specialty provides the full spectrum of primary care health care services to include health promotion, disease prevention, health protection, anticipatory guidance, counseling, disease management, palliative, and end-of-life care. AGPCNP’s can function in autonomous and collaborative roles guided by appropriate nurse practice acts. Provide primary care to Adult and Geriatric individuals, their families and communities. Focus on health promotion and maintenance for clients. Utilize the process and method of scientific inquiry in the study of nursing. Contribute to the development of nursing science and pursue opportunities for enhancement of advance practice. There are 660 required practicum hours for this specialty track. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification.

Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program requirements can be located in the University catalog. Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link. At this time there is no option for a post-masters, advanced graduate certificate.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Contact: Professor Megan Pratt

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track of the MSN program prepares students to provide primary care across the lifespan to individuals, families, and communities. FNPs practice within private and clinic settings as well as urgent care facilities. FNPs focus on health promotion and maintenance, and function in autonomous and collaborative roles guided by appropriate nurse practice acts. There are 780 required practicum hours for this specialty track. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification.

Family Nurse Practitioner Program requirements can be located in the University catalog. Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Family Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Graduate (Post-Master’s) Certificate Program Note: This program is open to nurses with a master's degree in nursing and requires a minimum of 500 practicum hours depending on the MSN preparation. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification. Providing review of transcripts represents completion of required core coursework. Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (CPNP-AC)

Contact: Dr. Patty Ozuna

The Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner provides holistic care for pediatric patients with acute, complex, critical, and chronic illness across a variety of care settings (including, but not limited to hospitals, intensive care units, subspecialty clinics, emergency departments, and the patient’s home). The practitioner works independently and collaboratively to ensure quality health care. In addition, the NP assists the patient and family in negotiating health care delivery systems. Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board’s CPNP-AC exam, which validates entry-level knowledge of graduates.

Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program requirements can be located in the University catalog. Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (CPNP-AC), Advanced Graduate Certificate (for Post-Master’s APRNs only) Note: This program is open to nurses with a master's degree in nursing and nationally certified and licensed as an APRN. There is a minimum of 500 required practicum hours for this specialty. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification.

Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Contact: Dr. Debbie Arnow

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track prepares advanced practice nurses to care for individuals and families with behavioral and mental problems. This specialty track within the MSN program prepares graduates to assess, diagnose, intervene (e.g. psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy), and provide follow-up to facilitate ongoing levels of wellness. The PMHNP is prepared to provide psychiatric and mental health care in a variety of treatment settings (e.g. hospitals, jails, home care, and outpatient clinics) and participate with other members of the health care team. With a shortage of mental health professionals and increasing demand for expert mental health care in rural health settings, the PMHNPs scope of practice brings critically relevant skills needed to care for persons experiencing the full range of psychiatric and mental health problems. There are 720 required practicum hours for this specialty. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Graduate (Post-Master’s) Certificate Program Note: This program is open to nurses with a master's degree in nursing. There are a minimum of 500 required practicum hours for this specialty depending on MSN preparation. Upon graduation, the student is eligible to sit for national certification.

Full- and Part-time plans of study can be located in the University catalog and accessing program information through the Degree Programs link.

Important forms

Most forms that will be needed throughout your graduate coursework can be found on the Graduate School webpage. Whenever possible, please complete the DocuSign version of the form.

Graduate Progression Forms

• Program of Study Requirements
• Declaration of Advisor
• Change in Program of Study
• Graduate Credit Transfer Evaluation Request
• Change of Advisory Committee
• Leave of Absence
• Notice of Reinstatement to Graduate Standing

Graduation Forms

• Graduation Application Completed in your individual MyNevada account
• Notice of Completion (Master’s)
• Notice of Completion (Doctoral)
• Final Thesis Review Approval
• Master’s Thesis Filing Guidelines

Health insurance

All domestic degree-seeking graduate students, who are enrolled in six or more credits (regardless of the course level) in a semester, will be automatically enrolled and billed for the University sponsored health insurance for each term they are eligible (fall & spring/summer). DNP students are not eligible for health insurance through the university. If a student has other comparable coverage and would like to waive out of the student health insurance, it is the student’s responsibility to complete the University online waiver form prior to the deadline. If approved, a health insurance waiver is good for the current academic year only. A new waiver must be submitted each academic year. All international graduate students are required to carry student health insurance, and the cost will be automatically added to your student account. Any international graduate students with insurance questions must contact the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) directly.

View information on graduate health insurance.

Graduate student association

The Graduate Student Association (GSA) represents all graduate students and promotes the welfare and interests of the graduate students at the University of Nevada, Reno. The GSA works closely with appropriate university administrative offices, including the Graduate School and Student Services and reports to the President of the University. The GSA government functions through the Council of Representatives, Executive Council and established committees.

Graduate assistantships

All graduate students holding an assistantship (teaching GTA or GRA) are considered Nevada residents for tuition purposes. Non-resident tuition is only waived for the duration of the assistantship. To be eligible for an assistantship, students must be admitted to a degree-granting program and be in good academic standing. The student must have an overall GPA of at least 3.0 and must be continuously enrolled in at least 6 graduate level credits (600-700) throughout the duration of the assistantship.

State-funded assistantships (GTA/GRA) may be held for a maximum of: three (3) years for master’s degree students and five (5) years for doctoral degree students.

More information about graduate assistantships can be found on the Graduate General information page and the Graduate Assistantship handbook.

Plans of study/advisement

Upon admission to the DNP or MSN (including Post-Master’s certificates) program, students should meet with their Track Leader for advisement. During your meeting your advisor should provide you with a plan of study that will serve as an outline for progression throughout your program. This plan will be based on full-time, part-time or post-master’s certificate status. Of note, the plan of study and program of study are not the same. The plan of study is a semester by semester overview of the program track. The program of study is a form required by the graduate school (See important forms).

Once a semester you are required to make an appointment with your Track Leader for advisement and to ensure you are progressing as planned through the program. If for any reason the Track Leader is unavailable you may meet with the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs.

Once the student has selected a chair for their Graduate Committee, the chair and track leader will be responsible for co-advising. The chair will provide advisement for thesis/project work and the track leader will provide advisement for program progression.

Timeline for degree completion

All DNP and MSN degree specialty tracks are designed with full and part time plans of study. Many of these options can be completed in five to eight semesters. All work toward a doctoral or master’s degree (transfer credits, credits completed at the University of Nevada, Reno prior to program admission, and all examinations) must be completed within six (6) calendar years immediately preceding the granting of the degree. Requests for extensions must come from the major advisor with concurrence of the OSN Associate Dean for Graduate Programs and be based on an academic or humanitarian rationale for the delay in degree completion. Not to exceed one year. Courses falling outside the 6-year timeframe will need to be repeated.

Courses and course load

1. Only graduate courses (numbered 600 or higher at the University of Nevada, Reno) are applicable toward the DNP, MSN, and Post-Master’s certificate/degree. These include web-based courses, if available.
2. Transfer Credits: These are credits transferred from another institution. Credits completed at the University of Nevada, Reno in another program or as a graduate special do not need to be transferred. Transfer credit is requested on the Graduate Credit Transfer Evaluation Request form available on Graduate School website and must be signed by the student, major advisor, and graduate Dean. Transfer credits applied to the doctorate or master’s program must comply with the time limitation on graduate work (6 years). Thus, if a student took a course five years prior to admission, they would have to complete the degree within one year for the course to apply to the degree. Credits from a completed master’s degree will be exempt from the 8-year time limitation for those students earning a doctoral degree. Additionally, no more than 12 credits completed either prior to admission to a graduate program or transferred from another institution may be applied to the degree. The Graduate Credit Transfer Evaluation Request Form should be used to evaluate transfer credits.
3. Graduate credit may not be obtained through Extension courses or Correspondence courses.

Continuous enrollment

To maintain “good standing” all graduate students are required to enroll in a minimum of three (3) graduate credits each fall and spring semester until they graduate. International students may be required to enroll in nine graduate credits each fall and spring semester depending on the requirements of their visa. All students holding assistantships (whether teaching or research assistantships) are required to enroll in a minimum of six (6) graduate credits each semester they hold the assistantship.

Leave of absence

Students in good standing may request a leave of absence by completing a leave of absence form available on the Graduate School website, during which time they are not required to maintain continuous registration. Usually, a leave of absence is approved for one or two semesters. The leave of absence request may be extended by the student filing an additional leave of absence form. Students applying for a leave of absence should not have any “incomplete” grades which could be changed to “F” and have a detrimental impact on their cumulative GPA. Requests for leave of absences must be received by the Graduate School no later than the last day of enrollment for the semester the leave is to begin.

Military mobilization

Any student who has the education interrupted by mobilization or activation to duty; every possible effort will be made to return the student back into the academic track as close as possible to the point prior to activation. Following the recommendation of NSHE Policy Chapter 16, Section 6- Student Military Mobilization/Activation as well as Chapter 3 of Volume 2 of the Federal Student Aid Handbook, University of Nevada, Reno outlines its readmission policy for Service members to benefit individuals returning from service. 

If needed students may apply for a leave of absence.

Reinstatement

When a student who was in good standing has been absent for one semester or more without an approved leave of absence, may request reinstatement via the Reinstatement form available on the Graduate School website. This form allows the program the option to recommend the student be re-admitted to their graduate program based on their previous admission OR require the student to re-apply for admission which would require students to submit a new application for admission and pay the application fee. The Notice of Reinstatement to Gradate Standing must be received by the Graduate School no later than the last day of enrollment for the semester the reinstatement is to begin.

Grades and Their Consequences

Graduate grading scale policy*

Purpose: To provide consistency in grading across the graduate curriculum, the following grading scale is to be used by the Orvis School of Nursing faculty for all graduate courses.

Grade  Percentage

A             95.00-100

A-            90.00-94.99

B+           87.00-89.99

B             83.00-86.99**

B-            80.00-82.99

C+           77.00-79.99

C             73.00-76.99

C-            70.00-72.99

D+           67.00-69.99

D             63.00-66.99

D-            60.00-62.99

F              <60.00

OSN policy for incompletes

Student’s ability to progress in the program is dependent of completion of courses within the program of study for each specialty.  If a student receives an incomplete for a variable credit course, they will not be allowed to register for further credits within that same course. For example: if a student receives an “I”  for NURS 788 or NURS 794, they will not be allowed to register for additional credits in that course until the incomplete is satisfied and an official grade is posted.

*Approved by the OSN graduate committee February 11, 2008.
**A final grade below B in any graduate nursing course is considered as not passing.
Grades as posted in the Graduate Grading Scare are grades earned.  No grades are rounded up. 

Academic dishonesty

Students are expected to conduct themselves as professionals in all settings.  A student may receive academic and disciplinary sanctions for cheating, plagiarism, or other attempts to obtain or earn grades under false pretenses.  See Academic standards.

Academic standing and dismissal policy for OSN graduate program

(Revised and Approved/President Sandoval 1/18/2023)

According to the Nevada System of Higher Education ("NSHE") Code, Title 2, Chapter 11, "a student may be dismissed from a program for academic reasons which may include but are not limited to inadequate grades or failure to remain in academic good standing as defined by the program, a lack of professionalism or unethical conduct, or failure to comply with other specific program requirements. Failure to comport with professional and/or ethical standards applicable to the particular discipline or program may be grounds for dismissal from a program." The NSHE Code authorizes programs to establish their own written dismissal policies, procedures and sanctions for program dismissals. The Orvis School of Nursing ("OSN") herein sets forth the Dismissal Policy for graduate students in OSN Graduate Program ("OSN Graduate Program").

A. General:

A student may be dismissed from the OSN Graduate Program for numerous reasons, which may include, but are not limited to:

1. Failure to maintain good academic standing as defined by this Dismissal Policy.
2. Failure to make satisfactory progress as defined by this Dismissal Policy.
3. Failure to meet the conditions of academic probation as described in the Academic Probation Notice.
4. Failure to comply with professional or ethical standards applicable to the OSN Graduate Program while the student is in a clinical or professional setting.
5. Violations of University Student Code of Conduct or the Academic Standards Policy for academic dishonesty (UAM 6,502) where the disciplinary sanction is expulsion.

All probation and dismissal recommendations shall be submitted by the OSN to the Graduate School. Only the Graduate School may officially place students on probation or dismiss students. OSN and the OSN Graduate Program may not place students on probation, nor dismiss students from the OSN and the OSN Graduate Program unless authorized to do so by the Graduate School.

B. Academic Good Standing

A student may be placed on probation and dismissed from the OSN Graduate Program for failure to maintain academic good standing. To be considered in good academic standing in the OSN Graduate Program, OSN graduate students shall:

1. Complete each graduate course with a grade of ''B" or better for the units to be acceptable toward an advanced degree.
2. Maintain a University of Nevada, Reno grade-point average (GPA) of at least 3.0.
3. Maintain a grade of B or better in the clinical or practicum course.
4. Have not been placed on probation by the Graduate School for academic or clinical or practicum course deficiencies.

C. Failure to Make Satisfactory Progress

A student may be placed on probation and dismissed from the Graduate School and the OSN graduate degree for failure to make satisfactory progress in their course of study. Failure to make progress is indicated by one or more of the following academic progress standards ("Academic Progress Standards"):

1. A failure to complete three (3) graduate credits per semester toward the OSN Graduate Program; if an exception has been issued allowing a student to enroll for fewer than three (3) graduate credits, failure to complete the agreed-on number of graduate credits.
2. Unsatisfactory grades (including grades below or grades lower than a B.
3. Repeated withdrawals from courses.
4. Failure to consult with their advisor when requested.
5. Failure to establish a graduate advisory committee.
6. Failure to develop an official, approved program of study.
7. Failure to establish the groundwork for a thesis and/or MSN/DNP project.
8. Failure of comprehensive and/or qualifying exams, if required by the OSN Graduate Program, in the number of attempts specified by the OSN Graduate Program.
9. Failure to comply with specific Graduate Program requirements or policies as stated in OSN Graduate Program's student handbook and website.
10. Failure to meet a department milestone or benchmark within the timeframe specified by the OSN Graduate Program.
11. Failure to pass the culminating experience if required by the OSN Graduate Program.
12. Failure to successfully defend a thesis and/or MSN/DNP project, or to successfully defend a final document.
13. Failure to perform at a level commiserate with the training received from either the OSN Graduate Program or the clinical/practicum placement site while the student is in a clinical or practicum setting.
14. Failure to maintain the standards of academic and professional integrity expected in a particular discipline or OSN Graduate Program, as described in the OSN Graduate Program's student handbook and website, while the student is in a clinical or practicum setting.

The OSN Graduate Program shall review the academic performance and progress of the graduate student at least once per year.

The OSN Graduate Program benchmark or requirements for the Academic Progress Standards are stated in the OSN Graduate Program Handbook and website (p.27). The benchmarks or requirements for the Academic Progress Standards shall be consistent with OSN Graduate

Program requirements, standards in the field and as specified in the OSN Graduate Program Handbook and on the website for the OSN Graduate Program.

D. Dismissal - Failure to Maintain Academic Good Standing.

If the program dismissal is based upon failure to maintain the required grades or the required GPA for the OSN Graduate Program or for a course within the OSN Graduate Program, the dismissal procedures described below in Section ll(E), do not apply and the student may be summarily dismissed from the OSN Graduate Program. The student's only recourse to challenge a grade is to utilize the University's grade appeal process. If the student's grade appeal is successful, the student shall be reinstated in the OSN Graduate Program.

E. Probation and Dismissal.

1. Probation

If the OSN Graduate Program determines that the student has failed to make satisfactory progress, the Recommending Party shall make a written request to the Graduate School to place the student on probation. For purposes of this Dismissal Policy, the Recommending Party shall be the dean of the OSN ("OSN Dean"). In the request, the Recommending Party shall provide documentation of the student's failure to meet the specific provisions(s) of this Dismissal Policy warranting probation. The Recommending Party also shall provide specific requirements and/or conditions, including deadlines, which the student shall complete in order for the Graduate School to remove the student from probation.

If the Graduate School approves the request to place the student on probation, the Recommending Party shall notify the student in writing to indicate that the student has been placed on academic probation (the "Academic Probation Notice"). The Recommending Party shall forward the Academic Probation Notice to the Graduate School.

The Academic Probation Notice shall outline what the student must do and the dates by which the student must do so in order to return to good standing in the OSN Graduate Program. The Academic Probation Notice also shall inform the student that if the student does not meet the conditions of probation, the student shall be dismissed from the OSN Graduate Program, contain information about the OSN Graduate Program dismissal appeal process and provide the student with the contact information for the Graduate School Director of Operations ("Director of Operations") for any questions or concerns the student may have. The Academic Probation Notice also shall inform the student of the student's right to participate in a review conference with OSN to discuss the terms and conditions of the probation and that the student must submit, within ten (10) Working Days from the date of the Academic Probation Notice, a written request to the OSN to have a review conference.

The student shall be afforded the opportunity for a review conference, which shall be administered by the Recommending Party or the Recommending Party's designee who shall be a department chair, program director or associate dean ("Review Conference Administrator").

The student shall have ten (10) Working Days from the date of the Academic Probation Notice to submit a written request to the OSN for a review conference ("Review Conference Request"). The OSN shall direct the Review Conference Administrator to schedule the Review Conference to occur no later than ten (10) Working Days from receipt of the Review Conference Request.

2. Dismissal

If the student fails to meet the requirements and/or conditions of probation, violates the terms of the probation, or is recommended for dismissal without probation under Section ll(F), the Recommending Party shall make a written request to the Graduate School to dismiss the student from the OSN Graduate Program and Graduate School. In the request, Recommending Party shall provide documentation of the student’s failure to meet the terms of the probation or grounds for dismissal without probation as stated in Section ll(F).

If the Graduate School approves the request to dismiss the student, Recommending Party shall notify the student in writing that the student is being dismissed from the OSN Graduate Program and Graduate School ("Dismissal Notice"). The Dismissal Notice shall include a written statement of reasons for the dismissal action, information about the applicable appeal procedures and the time period by which the student shall file an appeal (set forth in Section ll(J) below).

F. Dismissal or Discontinuation Without Prior Probation. In rare instances, a student may be dismissed or discontinued from the OSN and Graduate School without being placed on probation. These instances include the following circumstances:

1. When the academic reason for failing to progress is non-enrollment without being granted leave of absence for at least three (3) consecutive semesters, including the summer session (see Section ll(E) Continuous Enrollment Policy).
2. When a sanction of expulsion is issued by the Office of Student Conduct resulting from a student conduct issue or a violation of the Academic Standards policy (UAM 6,502) for academic dishonesty.
3. When a student's behaviors or actions while in a clinical or practicum setting endanger the life, health, well-being or safety of any person at the clinical or practicum setting.

For those instances involving non-enrollment, the student is subject to the procedures outlined in Section ll(G).

For those instances involving a disciplinary sanction of expulsion by the Office of Student Conduct, the student is subject to the procedures as outlined in Section ll(H).

For the other instances described above, the student is subject to the same procedures as outlined in Section ll(E) for OSN Graduate Program dismissal. The student shall be provided with a Dismissal Notice which shall include information about the appeal procedures, the appeal conference and the time period by which the student shall file an appeal (set forth in Section ll(J) below).

G. Discontinuation for Non-Enrollment

Pursuant to the Academic Policies of the Graduate School, all students are required to be enrolled in either: (1) three (3) graduate-level credits per semester; or (2) the minimum number of credits agreed to by the Graduate School and the student prior to the beginning of the semester (the "Continuous Enrollment Policy''). Any student in violation of the Continuous Enrollment Policy is subject to discontinuation from the Graduate Program and the student's academic record shall be closed.

The Graduate School shall notify students prior to the beginning of the next semester if they are in danger of violating the Continuous Enrollment Policy ("Discontinuation Notice"). The Discontinuation Notice shall be issued by the Graduate School within 10 (ten) business days prior to the beginning of the semester. The Discontinuation Notice shall inform the student that failure to register for the minimum number of credits violates the Continuous Enrollment Policy and will result in their discontinuation. If thereafter, the student fails to register for the minimum number of required credits, the student is discontinued from the Graduate Program.

If a student is unable to enroll in the minimum number of credits the next semester, the student shall submit a Leave of Absence Form signed by the Graduate Program and the Graduate School prior to the start of that next semester.

Failure to timely submit the Leave of Absence form or failure to return to the Graduate Program after the leave of absence has expired shall result in discontinuation from the Graduate Program and the student's academic record shall be closed. The student may request reinstatement to the Graduate Program. The decision to reinstate is at the discretion of the Graduate Program.

H. Dismissal for Violation of University of Nevada, Reno's Student Code Conduct or University's Academic Standards Policy (UAM 6,502). All disciplinary issues relating to a student's alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct and the Academic Standards Policy are processed through the Office of Student Conduct and not the Graduate School. The OSN and the Graduate School do not dismiss students from the OSN Graduate Program or the Graduate School as a finding of responsibility for violations of the Student Code of Conduct or the Academic Standards Policy. The Graduate School does dismiss a student from the OSN Graduate Program and Graduate School upon direction from the Office of Student Conduct after all conduct hearings and appeals have been completed and the Office of Student Conduct notifies the Graduate School that the sanction imposed against the student is expulsion from the University and therefore, dismissal from the OSN Graduate Program.

I. Probation or Dismissal/ for Lack of Professionalism or Professional Misconduct in a Clinical or Practicum Setting. Students may be placed on probation or dismissed from the OSN Graduate Program for lack of professionalism or professional misconduct while in a clinical or practicum setting. OSN has established its own benchmarks or requirements for professionalism and professional conduct, consistent with its OSN Graduate Program requirements, licensing, accreditation and national standards. These benchmarks and requirements are stated in the OSN Graduate Program Handbook and the OSN Graduate Program website.

All probation and dismissal recommendations based upon lack of professionalism or professional misconduct in a clinical or practicum settling shall be submitted to the Graduate School and only the Graduate School may officially place students on probation or dismiss students.

A recommendation for probation and/or dismissal due to lack of professionalism or professional misconduct shall follow the procedures stated in this Dismissal policy for dismissals based upon failure to make adequate progress (Section ll(C)) or Section 11(1).

J. Appeal Process

1. Student's Appeal Request

The student shall have ten (10) Working Days from the date of the Dismissal Notice to submit an appeal to the OSN. OSN then shall have ten (10) Working Days to submit the student's appeal to the Graduate School. Within ten (10) Working Days of receipt of the student's written request for appeal, the Dean of the Graduate School ("Graduate Dean") shall review the student's appeal and provide the student with written notification of the opportunity for a review conference on the appeal ("Appeal Conference").

2. Appeal Conference

The Appeal Conference shall be administered by the Graduate Dean. The Appeal Conference is a meeting that is not intended to be adversarial in nature. The student may be accompanied by an advisor during the Appeal Conference, who may serve in a support role to the student during the Appeal Conference. In this process, the advisor has no right to speak during the Appeal Conference except to the student.

If a student, who has been given notice does not appear for the Appeal Conference with the Graduate Dean, then the review conference shall proceed in the absence of the student.

The Appeal Conference is the time for presentation of the information, documents or witnesses in support of the dismissal. The Appeal Conference is the time at which the student is afforded the opportunity to present information, documents or witnesses on the student's behalf.

Witnesses may present a statement to the Graduate Dean; however, only the Graduate Dean is allowed to ask questions of any witnesses. Furthermore, the Recommending Party has the

opportunity to participate in the Appeal Conference and may present information, documents or witnesses in support of the dismissal recommendation. The Graduate Dean also may include representatives from the OSN Graduate Program in the Appeal Conference.

The Appeal Conference shall occur within thirty-five (35) Working Days but no earlier than ten

(10) Working Days after the date the Dismissal Notice was sent to the student by email or by personal delivery. The student can make a written request to the Graduate Dean asking that the 10-day period be waived if the student wants the Appeal Conference to occur sooner. If necessary, the student can make a written request to the Graduate Dean for an extension of time for the Appeal Conference and the Graduate Dean in their sole discretion, may grant the extension with regard to the Appeal Conference. If an extension of time for the Appeal Conference has been granted by the Graduate Dean, the Appeal Conference shall take place no later than forty-five (45) Working Days from the date of the Dismissal Notice3. Written Decision.

After a review of all the materials, statements and relevant circumstances, the Graduate Dean shall issue a written decision setting forth the reasons upon which the final decision is based. The Graduate Dean's determination shall be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the student engaged in behavior or actions related to the Graduate Program that warrant dismissal.

If the Graduate Dean does not uphold the recommendation for dismissal, the student shall be reinstated in the Graduate Program. The Graduate Dean shall provide the written decision to the student and the Graduate Program within five (5) Working Days after the Appeal Conference.

3. Decision Final.

The decision of the Graduate Dean is final and is not subject to appeal.

OSN Graduate Program benchmark or requirements for the Academic Progress Standards

A. A student may register for and begin a course only two times. A student who has registered for the same course twice and has withdrawn, or received a grade less than a “B”, is ineligible for progression in any track of the DNP or MSN program or certificate and will be dismissed from that designated program of study.

 B. If a student fails (receives less than a “B”) and/or has withdrawn from a combination of two or more courses, they will be dismissed from their program of study.

 C. A student who has failed to progress, been suspended, or dismissed from any of the Nursing Graduate Programs and is seeking reinstatement/readmission, will be required to meet with the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs and the Graduate Panel (consisting of two graduate nursing faculty, a graduate faculty representative outside of nursing, and a graduate nursing student from a different track). The panel’s decision is final.

Chain of command

If for any reason an issue arises for a student, whether it is a personal matter, grade concern, faculty conflict, peer to peer conflict, etc. there is a specific chain of command within the OSN to handle these situations.  For course issues, such as grade or faculty concerns, etc., the student should first reach out to the faculty of record for that specific course. If there is no resolution of the students’ concern the second step would be to contact the specialty track leader.  All other concerns and those regarding program progression should be taken directly to the specialty track leader.  If the student feels there is still no resolution of their specific issue or concern, they may contact the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs.  Finally, if the student feels there has been no resolution of the issue, they may contact the Dean of the OSN

Grade appeal

Any student who has concerns regarding a grade they have received, may file a grade appeal. There are very specific steps and time frames associated with this policy and procedure, so please read it carefully. Situations of academic dishonesty are not eligible for the grade appeal process. Please see the University Grade Appeal Policy & Procedures.

Post-Master’s DNP Residency Practica, BSN to DNP, MSN, and Post-Master’s Advanced Graduate Immersions & Clinical Practica Requirements

Revised 12/5/2016

Immersion day

Students are required to come to campus for five (5) days during the summer semester prior to the start of clinical/practicum to participate in a mandatory immersion. Immersions serve for students to interact with faculty, Standardized Patients, practice hands on procedures, learn from specialty guests, etc. To strengthen your learning opportunities, animal products are often used for teaching procedures (suturing, chest-tube insertion, I&D, etc.). If a student has a personal or religious objection to working with animal products; it is the student’s responsibility to discuss this objection with the Track Leader or the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs a minimum of 2 weeks prior to immersion day(s), so an alternative can be provided. Students receive clinical/practicum hours for time in the immersion setting. Graded assignments are included in the co-requisite theory course(s). Any student who has previously failed or withdrawn from either a theory or clinical course must repeat the associated immersion day(s). Immersion day(s) are mandatory on campus assignments and failure to attend or miss any scheduled sessions during the immersion may result in failure of the course(s).

Practica/clinical placement

Throughout the state we have vetted preceptors. The faculty of record will assign students to those preceptors. Students who are outside of the state of Nevada will need to assist with identifying a preceptor/mentor for their clinical and residency placements, so that the proposed preceptor can be vetted and an affiliation agreement secured. All Practica/clinical placements for students are a collaborative arrangement. While students may have ideas for where they would like to have clinical experiences, these must be discussed and approved by the track advisors and faculty of record for that specific course prior to meeting with any prospective preceptor. A "Preceptor Agreement", outlining the agreed upon relationship between each preceptor and student must be completed and provided to the Track Advisor and course faculty for approval prior to the first week of the semester. The OSN need up to date Curriculum Vitae for of clinical preceptors. Some practicum settings require a full contract with the University. Contracts can take up to 6 months, at times longer, to obtain. Students must keep this in mind when considering preceptors and settings.

Students must be with a preceptor when in the clinical setting. Students may not be in the clinical setting at any time when the university is not in operation (e.g. spring break, observed holidays). Students in breach of these rules may be dismissed from the program. 

Please remember that our preceptors are volunteers who are expert clinicians and have graciously agreed to provide role modelling and precepted hours for the student’s learning experiences. It is the expectation of the OSN that students treat our preceptors with professionalism and respect. All students will work within the schedule of the preceptor, which will mean that you have flexibility in your work schedule. If an issue occurs at a site with any of the staff or with the preceptor, immediately excuse yourself and contact your faculty.

 Clinical evaluations (in person, virtual, on campus Standardized Patient, or phone) will be conducted by the faculty of record. There must be a meeting (virtual, face to face, phone) among the preceptor, student, and faculty of record at the beginning of the practicum, mid-term and final. While feedback is sought from the preceptors the course grade is the direct responsibility of the faculty of record.   

Clinical Incident Report 

Fit for duty (Appendix A)

All students must be able to meet the minimum requirements of the job description for their specialty within the practicum settings they have been assigned. As part of the admission process, MSN, Post-Master’s Advanced Graduate Certificate, BSN to DNP and DNP students were required to have a physical examination and provide a note from their MD or practitioner stating “fit for duty”. If for any reason during the program, your physical status changes, you must provide an updated “fit for duty” note from your practitioner in order to return to coursework and the practicum setting. In the case of a serious injury or illness, you may request a leave of absence. 

COVID and communicable diseases

For COVID and other communicable diseases, we follow the County, State and CDC guidelines for diagnoses, exposures and symptoms. If there is a discrepancy between the county, state or CDC policies, the OSN follows the strictest policy for the protection of the student and community. Students are expected to self-report accurate details of all possible exposures. Students may be required to quarantine.

Immunizations and required documentation

There are practicum sites that may require students to have additional testing (Drug and Background) and immunizations (e.g. Flu vaccine). In the event of a positive Drug test or Background check, students will be advised to do a self-report with the licensing State Board of Nursing. In addition, a report will be filed by the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs with the licensing State Board of Nursing. 

Students must have current documentation of program requirements (Unencumbered license, Immunizations, BLS, ACLS, TB, Professional Liability, etc.) within their on campus files. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that their documents are kept current. Students who are out of compliance with any of the required documents will not be allowed in the clinical setting until the missing or expired documentation is received and reviewed by the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs. Repeated offenses of expired documents will result in a recommendation of probation to the Graduate School.

Standards of conduct/class conduct

Students are expected to conduct themselves as professionals. In any class/practicum related activity, students must demonstrate behaviors consistent with the ANA Code of Ethics and the Nursing Scope of Practice. A student may receive academic and disciplinary sanctions for disruptive behavior. See Academic Standards.

Unprofessional conduct/chemical impairment

A student displaying any behaviors in class or practicum setting which are interpreted to be unprofessional (NAC 632.890) or demonstrating signs or symptoms of chemical impairment will be immediately removed from the setting. Those students who are identified as demonstrating unprofessional behavior will be required to meet with the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs. The student may be recommended to the Graduate School for suspension from the program pending investigation of the complaint. Pending the results of the investigation, the student may be recommended to the Graduate School for dismissal from the program. In addition, a complaint may be filed with the State Board of Nursing. 

Those students exhibiting signs of chemical impairment will be required to submit to drug and alcohol testing (at the student’s expense), and will be recommended to the Graduate School for suspension from the program pending investigation of the complaint. The faculty and student will complete the Safety Analysis Form (Appendix B) and student will be escorted for testing. Pending the results of the investigation, the student may be recommended to the Graduate School for dismissal from the program. In addition, a complaint may be filed with the State Board of Nursing. See Fit for Duty Policy: Graduate Students (Appendix A).

Exposure to blood or bodily fluids/needlestick (Appendix C)

(Revised 9/11/19)

If an exposure occurs: Immediate first aid for a percutaneous exposure includes cleansing the area with soap and water. Mucotaneous exposures should be flushed with water, and eye exposures should be flushed with normal saline. No attempt should be made to express blood from a percutaneous exposure site and the site should not be cleaned with caustic agents (i.e. bleach). If the student has sustained a deep laceration, the student should be referred to the emergency room of their participating provider for injury management.

A student in the School of Nursing who has blood or body fluid exposure while in a clinical agency is treated in a similar manner to any type of accident occurring within a clinical agency. The student must immediately notify the clinical faculty who will assist the student in triaging the exposure. The faculty member will contact the National Clinician’s Post-Exposure Hotline (888/448-4911) to assist in evaluating the exposure. Before contacting the Post-Exposure Hotline, the faculty member will determine the date and time of the exposure, where and how the exposure occurred, the type of device used, and the severity of the exposure (i.e. mucotaneous splash, superficial scratch without bleeding, moderate puncture or cut with a small amount of bleeding, or a deep puncture or cut with profuse bleeding). If for any reason the National Clinician’s Post-Exposure Hotline is unavailable to assist in evaluation, the student will immediately go to the Emergency Department covered by the student’s private medical insurance. For reference in handling exposure, the CDC guidelines for Management of Occupational Blood Exposure are located in Appendix E.

If the exposure occurs in an acute facility, the faculty member will inform the patient of the exposure and work with unit staff to obtain patient consent for a STAT needlestick panel. If the exposure occurs in a community agency, the faculty will inform the patient of the exposure if possible and contact the National Clinician’s Exposure Hotline for direction. The faculty member will review the patient’s medical record, if available, to identify whether the patient has a known history of HIV, HCV, or HBV. If the patient has a known history of HIV, the faculty member will attempt to obtain a recent CD4 count and viral load of the source patient. The National Clinician’s Post-Exposure Hotline staff will triage the exposure as low-risk (PEP is not indicated), potentially high risk (PEP may be indicated), or high risk (PEP is indicated). The decision to be tested, however, is the choice of the individual exposed.

If the student is deemed by the Post-Exposure Hotline to have experienced a potentially high- risk or a high risk exposure, the student will be immediately referred to the emergency department covered by the student’s private medical insurance. It is the responsibility of the student to know which facility is covered by their individual insurance policy. If the determination is that the student’s exposure is low risk, the student will be sent to the University of Nevada, Reno Student Health Services for baseline testing and evaluation. If an exposure occurs outside of Student Health Services hours or if the clinical experience takes place more than 50 miles from the University campus, the student is to be referred to the nearest emergency room that is covered by their individual health policy regardless of the triaged exposure risk.

The University of Nevada Reno is not liable for treatment or medication costs and students are not covered by the clinical agencies’ workers compensation policies. Each student enrolled in the School of Nursing must carry individual medical insurance coverage at all times and all costs are the responsibility of the student.

In the event of a potential or documented exposure to a patient with active Tuberculosis, the exposed student is encouraged to have a PPD skin test at baseline at three months after exposure. If student has had a prior positive PPD skin test, they must have a QuantiFERON-TB drawn. A student who has a positive PPD skin test within 18 months of a previous negative result should discuss treatment options with his or her medical provider. A student with a positive PPD skin test will be excluded from clinical practice until a chest x-ray or QuantiFERON-TB blood test demonstrates the absence of active disease.

An incident/occurrence report must be completed at the clinical agency. Faculty will consult unit management to facilitate timely reporting. The clinical course coordinator and/or the program coordinator will be contacted to assist with student triage and reporting as necessary. Faculty will complete the OSN Bloodborne Pathogen & Communicable Disease Student Exposure Form and submit the completed form to the OSN director within 24 hours of a communicable disease exposure. The OSN director will keep this documentation on file for a period of not less than ten (10) years following the date of the exposure. The faculty will need to assist the student in completing the Blood Borne Pathogen and Communicable Disease Student Exposure Reporting form(s) (Appendix A).

Dress/uniform

(updated and approved 12/8/2014)

For clinical/practicum/residency rotations, students are required to dress in business/professional and a white lab coat or navy blue scrubs and a white lab coat with the University of Nevada, Reno OSN embroidered logo. A name badge may be provided by the clinical site and must be worn during all practicum hours. If the name badge is lost, the student will need to secure a replacement badge. Additionally, students must have their identification (University of Nevada, Reno/Wolf Card ID) badge visible. Obtain a University of Nevada, Reno/Wolf Card ID at the Wolf Card Office in the Joe Crowley Student Union. Photo identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.) is required. ID cards may only be issued to students who have registered for classes. 

Exceptions to this policy are otherwise defined by the environment in which the student is assigned (i.e. Pediatrics, Psych/Mental Health). Students may be sent home from clinical sites for failure to comply with required dress/uniform standards.

Lab coats and scrubs can be obtained from the following uniform stores in Nevada as they carry our logo:

In Reno, Reno Uniforms 70 W. Taylor St. 775-657-6025

In Las Vegas, Las Vegas Uniforms 953 967 E. Sahara Avenue 702-734-7070

Absenteeism

Each DNP, MSN, and Certificate track has very specific clinical hour requirements to ensure eligibility for certification testing within that specialty. Clinical hours are expected to be completed within the semester assigned. Clinical hours may not be “banked” and rolled over to another semester. Based on those requirements, any missed clinical hours will need to be made up before the end of the semester for that course, otherwise a student may receive an unsatisfactory grade, have to repeat the course, and maybe ineligible to progress within the program.

If unforeseen circumstances arise, (i.e. hospitalization), the student may request an incomplete for the course, or a medical withdrawal and complete the course during the next offered semester (this may delay progression within the program).

Chair and graduate committee

The declaration of advisor/major advisor/committee chair form

This form must be received by the graduate School no later than the end of the second semester for all DNP and MSN students. The form can be found on the graduate school forms website.

Prior to the completion of 12 credits, the student will select a chair.  It is the student’s responsibility to meet with a potential Chair(s) to discuss development of a Committee.   All OSN Graduate Faculty (doctoral prepared) members are eligible to fill this role. When a faculty member has agreed to chair the student’s committee, the completed Declaration of Advisor/Major Advisor/Committee Chair form will be submitted to the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs for signature prior to sending to the Graduate School. 

1. The committee Chair is the graduate faculty member of the OSN who will guide the student in developing the DNP Project and MSN thesis and in implementing the various steps of that proposal. The Chair and student will determine other committee members to complete the committee makeup. The second committee member will be another OSN faculty member approved by the Graduate School and ideally, someone with some understanding of the student’s chosen area of concentration. The third faculty member; Graduate Representative, is generally selected from the university-at-large. According to the graduate school, the university-at-large member is given the role of representing the graduate school, assuring compliance with graduate school regulations and procedures, and reporting any deviation from prescribed standards to the graduate school. 

   For The MSN project, committee make-up is slightly different. The committee Chair is a graduate faculty member of the OSN who will guide the student in developing the MSN Project and in implementing the various steps of that proposal. Requirements for the MSN project are outlined in NURS 794.

2. The Graduate School rule regarding committees is that they should be formed prior to completion of 12 graduate credits.
   
   
3. Graduate Committee members must have graduate faculty status or approval of the Dean of the Graduate School. Contact the OSN Associate Dean for Graduate Programs to initiate this request.
   
   
4. Students working on a project in the community may find it helpful and even vital to include a key person from the workplace on their committee. Preferably, this person should be doctoral educated (Ph.D., Ed.D. Dr.P.H., M.D., etc.), in which case it may be possible to obtain Graduate School approval for their role as an official committee member.  If this is not possible, this person can at least serve on the committee ex officio.  Contact the OSN Associate Dean for Graduate Programs to initiate this request.
   
   
5. The student’s Chair and committee (Committee make-up will vary depending on whether student is in the DNP or MSN program of study) should meet with the student to review, approve, and, sign off on the student’s Program of Study, which should be detailed on the Graduate School’s Program of Study Form (See Below and see Important Forms section).

Program of study

1. Students should discuss their program of study with their Track Leader advisor. The responsibility for approving a student’s program of study lays with the student’s Chair, other members of his/her Graduate Committee, the track leader, and the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs (Graduate Director). This information is recorded by the student on the Graduate School’s Program of Study Form, which once finalized, must be signed by the Committee Chair, and each member of the Graduate Committee and forwarded to the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs for approval. Once the Program of Study form has been reviewed and approved by the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs, the student will submit the form to the Graduate School. The student should make a copy of the original form for their student file prior to submitting to the Graduate School. 
2. Elective- or Transfer-course choices should be made in collaboration with the student’s Chair and support the student’s areas of specialization and her/his research and professional interests. All degree requirements including elective/transfer courses must be included on the Program of Study Form.

Important note: The Program of Study Form should be submitted to the Graduate School as soon as possible after the completion of 12 credits in the program. Should a student need help with course decisions prior to selecting a Chair and committee, the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs can assist in approving and recommending courses. If elective-course choices change, an amended Program of Study Form should be completed, necessary signatures obtained, and the form submitted to the Graduate School.

DNP project (NURS 788)

Introduction

Both the BSN to DNP and the Post-Master’s DNP program requires a change project as the culminating experience for the program. The process for developing the project usually begins in the second semester of full-time study (fifth semester of part-time study) and continues throughout the remaining three semesters. A minimum of six credits of NURS 788 is required to complete the project.  Students have three faculty members on their Project committee: two nursing faculty (doctorally prepared) and a third member (doctorally prepared) who serves as a representative of the Graduate School. The following describes the project in more detail, but the syllabus provides clear credit objectives and examples of project options.  Note: you may alternatively hear the project referred to as the “Capstone.”  Preparation for the DNP Project may begin as early as the first semester a student is enrolled in the program. Students must have a chair who has signed the Declaration of Advisor form.  Faculty will review with student the NURS 788 syllabus to plan the 6 credits for project completion. 

DNP Project Guidelines

The purpose of the DNP project is give the student an opportunity to synthesize the advanced knowledge and skills developed in DNP coursework. One of the ways the student demonstrates the synthesis of advanced practice and leadership skills is through production of a DNP project report. The AACN provides guidelines regarding the DNP project. 

While there is a lot of information on the page regarding the DNP project, students are highly encourage to review the content. 

What Constitutes a DNP Project? The DNP project gives the student the opportunity to develop, and ultimately, demonstrate a synthesis of senior leadership and advanced practice skills within the context of health care improvement. Thus, the setting, purpose, and objectives of student projects will vary, but every project will include the synthesis of strategic, creative thinking, decision-making, business planning, project management, and communication skills that are hallmarks of a DNP-prepared graduate. Students will explore the impact of the project at both micro and macro-levels of healthcare.

Timetable: The student is oriented to the process for developing and completing the project during the initial orientation held on campus in the first fall term of the DNP program. At that time, an overview of the project and an introduction to DNP faculty members eligible to supervise students’ projects takes place. Faculty members present their research, evidence-based practice, education projects, and/or leadership expertise and interests. This provides students with information about faculty with similar interests as their own and as possible chairs and members of project committees as they progress through the DNP program.

Before the end of the first semester of coursework, the student should speak with an advisor about her/his interests and opportunities for the leadership or advanced practice project. The exchange should include a discussion of potential chairs and members of the project committee and their readiness to assume such a role. Although plans may subsequently change after exposure to new ideas through coursework, student discourses, and employment transitions, a continuing dialogue about the potential project with the advisor is essential. By the end of the semester and with the advisor’s approval, the student finalizes the selection of a faculty chair for the project. In collaboration with the Chair of the Committee, the additional members who comprise the Project Advisory Committee are selected. Students may seek advisement for selection of a chair from the Associate Dean.

Since the DNP Project is a synthesis of the program objectives and relates to advanced practice and nursing leadership, students track the hours spent in the Project courses to document their contribution toward the 1000 hours of supervised clinical practice requirement of the program.

In the second semester, the student is engaged in project planning. The Project Advisory Committee reviews the proposed plan and toward the end of the semester, the student defends the project proposal. The student will prepare a PowerPoint presentation to highlight the background of the project, stakeholders, pertinent literature, framework, methodology as necessary, and timeline. The Project Committee must approve the project plan prior to implementation. During the proposal defense the student’s program of study will be signed. In some instances the student may need to seek IRB approval. In this case the student will work with their Chair to submit a proposal to the IRB. 

After the project proposal is approved, the student is able to begin work on the project, unless IRB approval is required. During implementation, the student applies knowledge from previous and concurrent coursework to continue activities on the project. The student’s Project Committee chair supports the student by acting as a resource and reviewing the student’s progress. The student initiates activities on the project throughout the semester under the guidance of the Chair of the Project Committee. Throughout the semester, it is the student’s responsibility to stay in contact with the Committee Chair and set periodic meetings for review of the work.

The student works with the Project Committee chair throughout to finalize the work of the project and to prepare the final defense of the project to the committee. An Executive Summary which includes by is not limited to Background and Significance, problem statement, stakeholders, review of the literature, methods, framework, results, implications for nursing, conclusions, etc. must be approved by the Committee chair before it is sent to other members of the committee. A PowerPoint presentation is developed that acts as an outline for the defense of the project.

Once the work on the DNP project has commenced, satisfactory progress must be made each semester in order to receive a passing grade in NURS 788. You must communicate with your chairperson as to what constitutes “satisfactory progress.” A minimum of six credits of NURS 788 are required to graduate. 

MSN research/project requirement NURS 797 Thesis or NURS 794

Introduction

A standard of graduate nursing education is scholarship. The student is expected to develop a topic of thesis/project prior to completion of 12 credits. The scholarship requirement consists of one of the following plans: (1) thesis, NURS 797, or (2) project, NURS 794. Prior to the completion of 12 credits, the student is expected to complete the Request for Graduate Advisory Chair and Declaration of Advisor form.

This form begins the process of identifying a Chair (must be a doctoral-prepared nursing faculty member) and two other committee members, one within the School of Nursing and one outside the School of Nursing with graduate faculty status or approval from the Graduate School Dean.

1. Thesis (NURS 797, Plan 1)

Definition:

The MSN Thesis is nursing-oriented in nature and requires independent research processes aimed at the discovery and/or development of elements or relationships derived from theory. The MSN thesis, while research-based, does not necessarily require the generation of new data. The thesis requires a minimum of 6 credits (NURS 797) and is graded as satisfactory or unsatisfactory (S/U).

Objectives:

Provides the student with the opportunity to:

1. generate a research question/hypothesis within a theory/conceptual framework
2. analyze the relevant literature,
3. implement the research with an appropriate design,
4. analyze and interpret data, and
5. Make recommendations for replication, revisions, or future investigations.

General Thesis Guidelines

 (Revised and approved 11/24/2011 by OSN Graduate Committee)

The following guidelines are provided to assist you in preparation of your thesis. Always refer to your chair for any specific questions and timelines.

1. Choose a Chair for your thesis Committee. It is suggested that at the end of NURS 735, (Introduction to Knowledge Development and Scientific Inquiry) the student should seed a faculty member to serve as chair of their thesis committee. The Declaration of Advisor/Major Advisor/Committee Chair. This form must be completed and signed by the requested faculty who will serve as chair of the thesis committee. The completed form must be submitted to the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs for signature and sent to the Graduate School for final declaration.

2. Negotiate with chair to set a meeting time to discuss your topic of interest.
3. The Chair and student will select additional Committee members. The Committee is composed of three members, two nursing faculty members (one, doctoral prepared, serving as chair) and one discipline outside of nursing members.
4. Begin writing.
5. Submit the first three/four chapters of your thesis to your chair for review. Your chair will decide when it is appropriate to submit your writings to other members of the committee.
6. Negotiate with Chair setting a date and time for proposal meeting. Thesis Proposal Meeting and completion of Program of Study; the student will meet with his/her chairperson and discuss dates for a Thesis Proposal meeting, keeping in mind the calendars of other committee members for mutual date. Prior to initiation of the research, all details related to the thesis must be discussed, negotiated, and approved by the student’s Thesis committee. At the proposal defense, the Program of Study Form, will be signed by the chair, committee members, Associate Dean for Graduate Programs, and graduate school signatures. Make sure a copy of this form is placed in your file. This form can be located on the Graduate School website under forms.
7. Once you have obtained approval from your Chair and Committee members begin Institutional Review board (IRB) application process. Guidelines for submitting an IRB application can be found on the Research Integrity Office website. If not already completed you will need to complete the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) course prior to applying to the IRB.
8. Once you have received IRB approval you may begin your data collection.
9. Begin writing Chapter 4 and submit to Chair. Once approved by Chair, you may submit your writings to other members of the committee.
10. Set final defense date. Pay very close attention to timeline requirements and important dates located on the Graduate School website. 
11. The final copy of your thesis will be submitted to the Committee 2-4 weeks prior to your final defense date. The exact timeframe of this submission will be determined by your chair.
12. Thesis Defense. Two (2) hours should be scheduled for this defense. Bring to your defense completed, for signature, The Master’s Degree—Notice of Completion form. This form can be found on the Graduate School website.
13. Submit your thesis to the Graduate School in accordance with Thesis/Dissertation guidelines and submission requirements, located on the Graduate School website.
14. Don’t forget to register for Graduation!

Professional Project (NURS 794, Plan 2)

(Revised and approved 02/03/14, updated 2/3/21 by OSN Graduate Committee)

NURS 794 Graduate Nursing Scholarship-Capstone Project

The purpose of this course is to provide graduate nursing students the opportunity to demonstrate the mastery of translation and integration of research into evidence-based practice in order to improve the health outcomes of identified individuals, communities, or populations. This capstone project represents the culmination and application of fundamental objectives of the individual student’s master’s education including identifying, developing and disseminating evidence-based practice changes. Students will be assigned a “chair” who will be responsible for grading all assignments in NURS 794. The Chair must sign the Declaration of Advisor form.

The SLO’s of this course will guide you on completing the proper components of a project proposal. They include:

SLO1. Examine current healthcare systems, financing structures, and healthcare policy utilizing available technology to identify a practice issue that needs change.

SLO2. Critique, synthesize, and apply scientific knowledge within a theoretical framework to develop and execute a quality evidence-based change project.

SLO3. Create community partnerships and collaborate with other professionals and members of the community to provide optimal coordination healthcare to individuals, families, special population or aggregates. Culminating in a formal presentation and dissemination with an interdisciplinary team of community partners, faculty and students.

SLO4. Evaluate cultural and ethical implications related to the identified practice issue and supported practice change with particular emphasis on social justice considerations.

SLO5. Analyze the practice issue and change project for impact on concerns of access and health disparities to the different cultural group norms.

SLO6. Integrate the role and responsibilities of advance practice nurses guided by national scope and standards to lead the delivery and evaluation of a high-quality evidence-based change project.

SLO7. Demonstrate integration of scientific findings from nursing, biopsychosocial fields, genetics, public health, quality improvement and organizational sciences within a theoretical framework in a project that improves the state of nursing care and evidence-based practice.

Graduation process

1. Students have a total of 6 calendar years to complete all masters or doctoral degree requirements.
2. The Application for Graduation must be purchased and completed online in MyNevada. All DNP, MSN and Post-Master’s MSN students must complete this application process. This application includes the intended date of graduation, degree, and dissertation or thesis title (if applicable). Graduation deadlines are as follows:
   
   March 1 for May (Spring) Graduation
   June 1 for August (Summer) Graduation
   October 1 for December (Fall) Graduation
   
   Late applications will not be accepted.
   
   An applicant who does not complete all degree requirements by the specified deadline for the semester they applied for, must purchase and complete a new online graduation application.
   
   Note that only May and December have official graduation ceremonies.
3. A Program of Study Form must be completed by the student and approved/signed by all members of the student’s Graduate Committee upon completion of 12 credits toward the MSN degree. The program of study form is then forwarded to the graduate coordinator for approval and then to the Graduate School for final approval.
4. An oral presentation and defense of the student’s project or thesis to her/his Graduate Committee and other interested faculty and students must occur prior to the final exam period of the semester in which the student plans to graduate.
5. Dates for Submission of Thesis: The final date for submission of the thesis in final form is one week before the close of the semester. No extension of this deadline is permitted. The Graduate Dean makes final approval of theses. The Graduate School will always have a complete list of semester graduation deadlines posted online. See the Graduate School website for Thesis Guidelines. 
   
   Important note: The “end of the semester” is usually the Monday following the end of the final examination period.
6. Following the successful completion of the above, the Student Advisory Committee will sign a Notice of Completion and the student will seek the final signature of the OSN Associate Dean for Graduate Programs and submit the original to the Graduate School—a necessary component of the final approval of the student’s graduation.
7. Completion of Graduate Survey.

References

American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2008). The essentials of doctoral education for advanced nursing practice.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2008). The essentials of master’s education in nursing.

Institute of Medicine. (2003). Health professions education: A bridge to quality. Washington, DC: National Academies Press.

Appendix A

University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing Fit for Duty Policy: Graduate Students

Purpose: The Orvis School of Nursing (OSN) is committed to protecting the safety, health and well-being of its students, faculty, staff as well as the patients and employees of our affiliate institutions and clinical agencies. Therefore, the purpose of this policy is to establish clear expectations regarding student psychological and/or physical fitness for duty in the clinical setting and to outline the consequences of unsafe or unethical student behaviors. Every student in the Orvis School of Nursing program is expected to act in a safe and ethical manner consistent with the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses.

Policy & Procedure:

The rights of patients and the public to safe professional practice supersedes students’ learning and skill acquisition needs. Faculty has an obligation to assess and make professional judgments with respect to each student’s fitness for safe practice during clinical hours. Combined with the OSN Graduate Handbook policies, “Fit for Duty” policies and requirements of our clinical agencies provide the framework and expectations for student participation and behaviors at the individual sites. Each student is responsible to know how to access agency policies and procedures as an additional reference.

In circumstances where a ‘Fitness for Duty’ evaluation may be initiated, the faculty will proceed appropriately according to this policy. If the clinical agency has a different policy of fit for duty the most restrictive policy will supersede but not exclude this policy.

• In the event that a faculty member makes a professional judgment that a student’s psychological and/or physical condition impairs the student’s ability to perform safely, the student will be asked to leave the clinical area. The student must immediately comply with this request.
• Students with a fever over 100.4^o F, frequent diarrhea, vomiting, cough, visible rash of infectious nature, conjunctivitis, open wound that cannot be adequately covered, or inability to control bodily secretions may not participate in clinical activities of any kind. Students with minor upper respiratory infections may be required to wear a face make while providing patient care.
• Students must be able to meet the physical requirements of the clinical agency where they are assigned for clinical practice. If a student requires an assistive device for either a temporary or long term medical reason that does not meet the ADA requirements of reasonable accommodation related to a qualified disabling condition the device may not be allowed. The ability to maintain patient safety by providing safe patient care cannot be compromised for any reason. Patient care is integral to learning the professional/advance practice role and light duty and/or non-patient care tasks or alternative assignments are not available.
• Students demonstrating signs or symptoms of chemical impairment will be required to submit to drug and alcohol testing. When requested by faculty, the student must report for testing immediately upon leaving the clinical site.
  • Signs of chemical impairment for which a student may be required to undergo drug and/or alcohol screening include, but are not limited to: labile mood, disheveled appearance, reddened eyes, dilated or constricted pupils, tremor, decreased coordination, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, confusion, paranoid thinking, impaired perception of reality, slurred or rapid speech, unstable gait, odor of alcohol or other chemical substance, syncope, or needle marks.
  • A student, who is required to undergo drug and/or alcohol screening pursuant to this policy, must arrange for transportation to an approved testing site. Students being sent for chemical screening may not operate a motorized vehicle to report for required drug and/or alcohol testing.
  • A student (at their own expense) must undergo drug and/or alcohol testing at South Reno Concentra located at 6410 South Virginia Street. Reno, NV, 89511. The student must report to this facility within one hour of leaving the clinical site. If outside of the Reno/Sparks area, the student must report to the nearest Concentra or like lab.
  • Drug and alcohol testing results must be provided to the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs before the student may return to clinical. Results provided by the student must be signed by a representative of the testing facility, and enclosed in an envelope that is sealed at the testing site in a tamper-evident manner. Positive results are subject to self-reporting to the licensing State Board of Nursing. Additionally, a report will be filed by the Associate Director for Graduate programs to the licensing State Board of Nursing.

A student who refuses to submit to drug and/or alcohol screening when requested pursuant to this policy will be suspended and or dismissed pending further investigation.

A student who is taking a prescribed schedule II – V controlled substance while under the care of a medical provider, must comply with agency policy. A student may not provide direct patient care with a non-prescribed controlled substance or schedule I controlled substance in his or her system, whether or not the student demonstrates signs or symptoms of impairment.

• A faculty member may remove a student from the clinical area because of failure to adhere to the OSN dress code, inadequate preparation, or unsafe or unethical practice NAC 632.890
  • Examples of unsafe or unethical clinical practice include but are not limited to:
    • Negligent patient care
    • Patient abuse, either physical or verbal
    • Excessive sleepiness
    • Unprofessional behaviors
  • unsafe performance documented by the clinical faculty member
    • Refer to the syllabi and/or rubrics

• In the event that a student is asked the leave the clinical area because of signs or symptoms of physical, emotional, psychological or chemical impairment, or unprofessional behavior prohibited by this policy, the Orvis School of Nursing Graduate student absence policy (in Graduate Handbook) will apply to any clinical time missed for any reason.
• If a student is excluded from clinical due to illness, impairment, or injury, faculty may request medical documentation that permits a student to participate in direct patient care. If requested, this documentation must be provided before a student will be permitted to return to the clinical setting.
• Prior to return to the clinical setting, the student must meet with the clinical faculty, Track leader and the Associate Dean for Graduate Programs.

Consequences

Before being permitted to return to the clinical area, the student may be mandated by OSN to obtain a Fit for Duty assessment, which may include but is not limited to physical exam, psychological exam, and/or drug /alcohol testing. If recommended, the student must comply with treatment and further monitoring to continue in the clinical course. If the student refuses this assessment, treatment, and/or further monitoring the student may not be permitted to return to the clinical site, resulting in failure of the course and potential dismissal from the program. If dismissal from the clinical site is due to unethical, unprofessional, or unsafe clinical practice, then a clinical improvement plan will be initiated prior to returning to the clinical setting. If the student has been referred for medical or psychological treatment, the student will be permitted to return to clinical practice if the treatment provider has deemed the student fit for duty.

Information will be shared with the treatment provider(s) and OSN designated reporting party, with the student’s written consent.

If the student is removed from a clinical setting due to documented chemical impairment, the student will be dismissed from the nursing program. Failing to present for a chemical impairment evaluation within allotted time period, failure to report for specimen collection, tampering or attempting to tamper with a specimen or the results, will result in dismissal from the program.

Appendix B

Fit for duty Safety Analysis Form

The faculty and student will complete the Fit for Duty Safety Analysis Form.

Appendix C

University of Nevada Reno Orvis School of Nursing Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Guidelines

I. Purpose and Policy

The purpose of these guidelines is to reduce the risk of student exposure to blood borne pathogens such as, but not limited to, Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

Standard Precautions is an approach to infection control that requires the application of blood and body fluid precautions for all patients and patient specimens regardless of diagnosis. Standard precautions will be the minimum standard of practice throughout Orvis School of Nursing. Whenever possible Body Substance Isolation will be used. Body Substance Isolation takes Universal Precautions one step further and requires the same barrier precautions for all moist body substances and surfaces, not just those associated with the transmission of HIV and HBV. All human blood and body fluids will be handled as if they are infectious.

II. Prevention of Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure

Education and Training in Standard Precautions and Body Substance Isolation Procedures:

Students will be required to participate yearly in Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Prevention and Control Class during the first week of level one and level four clinical. The student must also have satisfactorily demonstrated skill in using personal protective equipment and procedures before receiving a patient care assignment. The OSN office will maintain documentation of yearly attendance.

Hepatitis B Vaccine:

Students will be required to have completed the hepatitis B vaccine series, have documentation of titer immunity, or to have signed a declination prior to going to clinical sites. Students may receive the series through Student Health Services, Washoe County Health Department, Orvis Nursing Clinic, or their own private health care provider.

III. Methods of Compliance

Students will become familiar and comply with the Blood Borne Pathogen Exposure Policy of the clinical sites to which they are assigned.

1. General Screening

The Orvis School of Nursing will not undertake any program of screening faculty or students for antibody to HIV. Any student or faculty wishing to be tested will be referred to his/her private physician, University of Nevada, Reno Student Health Center, or the county health department.

V. Accidental Exposure Incidents

A student in the School of Nursing who has blood or body fluid exposure while in a clinical agency is treated in a similar manner to any type of accident occurring within the agency. The student should immediately notify the clinical faculty who will then immediately notify the supervisor within the health care facility where the accident occurred. As much information as possible about the source patient should be collected (i.e. HBV antigen, HCV and HIV antibody status). The clinical agency will require the completion of an incident/occurrence report and will usually ask for permission from the client to test for blood borne pathogens.

The student should report to a health care provider within two hours to discuss post-exposure prophylaxis treatment. The student should be aware that post-exposure testing and post-exposure prophylaxis treatment is not a covered service at the University of Nevada, Reno student health center. While testing and treatment may be initiated at student health services, the student will be required to pay for these services at the time of treatment. In the event of a blood borne pathogen exposure, it is imperative that the student know where and how to seek evaluation and care, as post exposure prophylaxis must be initiated within two hours. Should the student have a private insurance policy (yourself, your employment, or through your parents); it is still necessary for students to determine if exposure to a blood borne pathogen is a “covered service” of their policy.

The University of Nevada Reno is not liable for treatment or medication costs. Each student enrolled in the School of Nursing must carry health insurance and must provide validation of this coverage each semester to the program coordinator or designated staff. The insurance must provide coverage for exposure to infectious/communicable diseases.

The cost of personal health care, including care required as the result of blood borne pathogen exposure in clinical practicum experiences, is not covered by the University, the School of Nursing, or the clinical agencies workman’s compensation policy.

The University of Nevada Reno does have a Student Accident Insurance policy that would cover students for a blood borne pathogen exposure. The policy is limited to $10,000 and only covers the student in off campus locations (i.e. hospitals or non-university clinics). The coverage is only in effect while you are a student.

The exposed student will be encouraged to have testing for HIV at baseline, 6 weeks, 12 weeks and 6 months. The decision to have testing or not, however, is the choice of the individual exposed.

The clinical instructor and student will complete the OSN incident report to document the exposure. The faculty will forward the information to the Director of Orvis School of Nursing for follow up. The school of nursing will keep this documentation on file for a period of not less than ten years following the date of the exposure.

The clinical instructor must notify the Director of the School of Nursing when a student has been accidentally exposed. Notification of the Administration is necessary to assist in the protection of the faculty and College in the event of subsequent liability issues or actions occurring following the incident.

VI. Guidelines for Exempting Students from Clinical Assignment to Clients with Blood Borne Diseases:

Confirmed Pregnancy:

The risk of transmission of communicable diseases to pregnant health care workers is not known to be greater than the risk to those not pregnant. However, a pregnant student may not be eligible to receive triple therapy post-exposure prophylaxis in the event of a high-risk exposure due to the teratogenic effects of protease inhibiting medications.

Based on the above information, there is no epidemiological reason to exempt pregnant students from caring for patients with blood borne diseases.

Incompetent Immunological Systems:

Students with diagnosed immunological deficiencies are at an increased risk for developing opportunistic infections that may be present in clients with blood borne diseases as well as other non-infected clients.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Nurses Association do not recommend barring HIV-infected health care workers from practicing their profession, though in some cases, disclosure of the student’s status may be indicated and mandated by law.

Students with HIV infection need not be restricted from clinical experience unless they have some other illness for which any health care worker would be restricted. Symptoms of HIV (i.e. fatigue, paresthesia, vision problems, or dementia) may limit a health care worker's ability to safely practice.

Infections:

Any student with an infectious process could further compromise the client with an incompetent immunological system.

All students with exudative or weeping skin lesions should be restricted from direct client care contact.

The decision to exempt a student from clinical experience will be made on a case-by-case basis by the faculty responsible for the clinical course. Decisions about longer exemptions (more than one clinical session) will be made in consultation with the student's physician and appropriate university faculty/administrators.

VII. Student Acceptance of Clinical Assignment

Students who have received formal classroom instruction in blood borne pathogen exposure control and can satisfactorily demonstrate knowledge and skills requisite to such care are expected to accept clinical assignments in order to meet the course objectives.

The decision to exempt a student from clinical experience will be made on a case-by-case basis by the faculty responsible for the clinical course.

VIII. Confidentiality

Within the Code of Federal Regulations are statements designed to protect medical information and the privacy of the individual, providing there is no overriding need for the public to know. To mandate that a person infected with HIV be required or requested to notify College authorities is difficult, if not impossible to enforce and legally challengeable.

Individuals involved with health care-giving services that know they are infected with a blood borne disease are ethically and legally obligated to conduct themselves responsibly in accordance with the following protective behaviors.

1. Seek medical advice.
2. Follow College and/or agency guidelines when involved in direct client care.
3. Be knowledgeable about and practice measures to prevent transmission of blood borne diseases.

No specific or detailed information concerning complaints or diagnosis will be provided to faculty, administrators, or even parents, without the express written permission of the individual in each case except as required by law. This position with respect to health records is supported by amendment to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. Health officials and other institutional officers must remember that all confidential medical/health care information is protected by statutes and that any unauthorized disclosures may create legal liability.

Revised April 2006
Approved by Director& OSN Faculty

April 24, 2006

Appendix D

Orvis School of Nursing Blood Borne Pathogens and Communicable Disease Student Exposure Report Form

• This form must be completed by the student in collaboration with clinical faculty for any exposure or potential exposure to a communicable disease that occurs during the course of a clinical rotation. An exposure or potential exposure is defined as a percutaneous injury or direct skin and/or mucous membrane contact with blood or body fluids or a reasonable belief that an exposure may have occurred.
• Please complete this form as thoroughly as possible. This form is required in addition to any form required by your clinical agency.
• While your first priority is to obtain appropriate exposure management and post-exposure prophylaxis therapy if indicated, this form must be completed prior to leaving clinical on the day that the injury or exposure occurred.
• This information will remain confidential and will be maintained in a locked cabinet at the Orvis School of Nursing for a period of not less than ten years following the exposure. Information in this form will remain confidential and will only be utilized by public health agencies in the mandated reporting of diseases, or as required by law.

Appendix E

Updated U.S. Public Health Service Guidelines for the Management of Occupational Exposures to HBV, HCV, and HIV and Recommendations for Postexposure Prophylaxis.

Management of Occupational Blood Exposures