Nursing, AAS

Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing with a major in Nursing

Length: Five-semester (two-year) program (First semester consists of pre-requisite courses)

Purpose:

The Associate Degree Program in Nursing is fully approved by the:

Virginia Board of Nursing

Perimeter Center

9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300

Henrico, VA 23233-1463

Phone:804-367-4400

Fax: 804-527-4475

Website: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/nursing/ 

(Next scheduled site visit: 2031)

                

The Associate Degree Nursing program is also accredited by the:

 Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326

 Phone: 404-975-5000

 Fax: 404-975-5020

 Website: http://www.acenursing.org

 (Next scheduled site visit: 2030)

              

ADN Student Learning Outcomes and Competencies

Nursing Program Mission

Provide affordable, community access to quality nursing education. The VCCS nursing programs prepare qualified students to provide safe, competent, entry-level nursing care in 21st century healthcare environments. Students are prepared to meet the ever-increasing complexity of the healthcare needs of the citizens of Virginia.

Philosophy

VCCS nursing faculty ascribe to the core competencies for nursing and Nursing education. While firmly based in science and the arts, the essence of nursing is caring and compassionate patient-centered care. Ethical standards, respect for individual dignity, and consideration of cultural context are implicit in the practice of patient-centered care. The nurse advocates for patients and families in ways that promote self-determination, integrity, and ongoing growth as human beings. Nursing care is provided in collaboration with the patient, the family, and members of the health care team. The nurse displays a spirit of inquiry by examining evidence to improve the quality of care, promote safety, and improve patient outcomes. Nursing judgment is integral to making competent decisions related to the provision of safe and effective nursing care. Information management essential to nursing care is communicated via a variety of technological and human means.

Program Outcomes:

1. Educate graduates to deliver safe, patient-centered nursing care to a diverse population with health alterations in structured health care settings.
2. Eighty percent of most recent graduates pass the NCLEX-RN exam as first-time test takers within 12 months.
3. Seventy percent of students who start the first semester will graduate within 150% of the program length.
4. Eighty percent of graduates will indicate employment as a registered nurse 6 – 12 months after graduation.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Students who complete the Associate Degree of Applied Science with a major in Nursing will be expected to:

Client-Centered Care	Provide client centered care promoting therapeutic relationships, caring behaviors, and self-determination across the lifespan for diverse populations.
Safety	Practice safe nursing care that minimizes the risk of harm across systems and client populations.
Clinical Judgment	Integrate clinical judgment when collaborating with the healthcare team in the management of care for complex clients.
Professional Behaviors	Practice professional behaviors that encompass the legal/ethical framework while incorporating self-reflection, leadership, and a commitment to recognize the value of life-long learning.
Quality Improvement	Manage client care through quality improvement processes, information technology, and fiscal responsibility to meet client needs and support organizational outcomes.
Collaboration	Demonstrate principles of collaborative practice within the nursing and healthcare teams fostering mutual respect and shared decision-making to achieve stated outcomes of care.
Pharmacology	Manage the appropriateness, accuracy, and client response to pharmacology principles for clients with complex conditions.

 

First-time Performance on Licensure/Certification Examination - Aggregated for Entire Program

Expected Level of Achievement	Year	Licensure Examination Pass Rate
ELA:80% of students will pass the NCLEX on the first attempt	2025	100% (Number of testers= 40)
ELA:80% of students will pass the NCLEX on the first attempt	2024	100% (Number of testers= 40)
ELA:80% of students will pass the NCLEX on the first attempt	2023	100% (Number of testers= 30)
ELA:80% of students will pass the NCLEX on the first attempt	2022	93.02% (Number of testers= 43)
ELA:80% of students will pass the NCLEX on the first attempt	2021	79.03% (Number of testers= 62)

 

Performance on Program Completion – Aggregated for Entire Program

Expected Level of Achievement	Year	Program Completion Rate
45% of graduates of the program will complete the program within 100% of the program length.	2025	53.06%
45% of graduates of the program will complete the program within 100% of the program length.	2024	41.5%
45% of graduates of the program will complete the program within 100% of the program length	2023	46.2%
70% of graduates of the program will complete the program within 150% of the program length	2022	67.6%
70% of graduates of the program will complete the program within 150% of the program length	2021	58%

 

Admission to the Program

Students who meet the minimum requirements may enter the nursing program, as space is available. Wytheville Community College has standing contractual obligations with affiliating clinical agencies to ensure that all students admitted to the nursing program meet the minimum requirements prior to entering in the clinical setting.

The minimum requirements are:

Mandatory Criteria:

 

Category	Metric
High School Diploma or Equivalent
High School Chemistry*	“C” Grade or Better
High School Biology *	“C” Grade or Better
Cumulative GPA	≥ 2.0
Curricular GPA	≥ 2.5
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: BIO 141	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: ENG 111	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: PSY 230	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement:  SDV 100	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: PHI 220	“C” Grade or Better
Overall ATI TEAS Score (Composite Score)	≥ 64% or Higher
Science ATI TEAS Score	≥ 45% or Higher

*If the applicant does not meet the high school prerequisites, they may gain proficiency through the college’s developmental courses. The high school requirements may be waived if BIO 141 and BIO 142 (Anatomy and Physiology I and II) are completed with a grade of “C” or better;

**Students who have an unsuccessful attempt in another nursing program are not eligible for admissions for 5 years from their last attempt, unless they complete a Licensed Practicla Nursing Program and apply for the LPN to RN Transition Option.

 

Students must submit:

An application to Wytheville Community College and Selective Admissions to Health Professions Packet.

A copy of high school diploma or equivalent.

Official transcripts from previously attended high school and colleges.

Evidence of TEAS VII Score

Evidence of high school algebra, biology/ lab, chemistry: If a student has successfully completed BIO 141 and BIO 142, the high school chemistry requirement is waived.

Successful completion of pre-requisite courses: SDV 101 ENG 111 BIO 141 PSY 230 PHI 220 These courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or above and cumulative GPA of 2.5.

Service region students (Bland, Carroll, Wythe, Grayson, Smyth (East of Marion) counties, and the city of Galax) are considered before out-of- region and out-of-state students.

 

If there are more qualified applicants than space, the selective admission process will apply by ranking of the following:

Criteria	Possible Points Awarded
Cumulative GPA	4.0 to 3.5=   10 Points	3.49 to 3.0=  5 Points	2.99 to 2.5=   2 points	2.49 to 2.0=  0 points
Overall ATI TEAS Score (Composite Score)	100-90=   30 points	89.99-80=  20 Points	79.99-70=  10 points	69.9-60=   5 points
ATI TEAS Science Score	100-90=   20 points	89.99-80=  15 Points	79.99-70=  10 points	69.9-60=   5 points
ATI TEAS Reading Score	100-90=   20 points	89.99-80=  15 Points	79.99-70=  10 points	69.9-60=   5 points
ATI TEAS Math Score	100-90=   20 points	89.99-80=  15 Points	79.99-70=  10 points	69.9-60=   5 points
Total Nursing Admission Points Earned (Maximum Points 100)

 

Students will receive an acceptance letter via email to the nursing program in the Spring prior to their first nursing semester. Students will indicate acceptance or rejection of their offered space via email survey. Students who reject their offer of acceptance or do not accept by the stated due date, will have to re-apply to the nursing program in order to be considered for a position in the nursing program for subsequent years. Students must possess the technical skills required for the nursing program. Students are required to attend a formal orientation program. 

Students from other programs who have been dismissed or withdrawn from said programs because of failing to meet academic or other standards established by that program will NOT be considered for transfer to the WCC Program. Applicants must be in good standing at their previous college with a “C” average or better and must provide documentation of eligibility to continue in the regular sequence of course work without repeating a course in that nursing program.

Credit for Prior Learning: LPN to RN Bridge Option

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) who have met program requirements may enter the nursing program and receive credit for prior learning.

The LPN will receive credit for the follow NSG courses:

• NSG 100
• NSG 130
• NSG 106
• NSG 152
• NSG 170

Student will receive 90 clinical hours for Credit for Prior Learning.

Mandatory Criteria:

Category	Metric
High School Diploma or Equivalent
High School Chemistry*	“C” Grade or Better
High School Biology *	“C” Grade or Better
Cumulative GPA	≥ 2.5
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: BIO 141	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: BIO 142	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: ENG 111	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: PSY 230	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement:  SDV 100	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: PHI 220	“C” Grade or Better
Completion of Prerequisite Semester Requirement: BIO 150	“C” Grade or Better
Overall ATI TEAS Score (Composite Score)	≥ 64% or Higher
Science ATI TEAS Score	≥ 45% or Higher

 

*If the applicant does not meet the high school prerequisites, they may gain proficiency through the college’s developmental courses. The high school requirements may be waived if BIO 141 and BIO 142 (Anatomy and Physiology I and II) are completed with a grade of “C” or better;

Students must submit:

An application to Wytheville Community College and Selective Admissions to Health Professions Packet.

A copy of high school diploma or equivalent.

Official transcripts from previously attended high school and colleges; including practical nursing program.

Submission of a copy of current unencumbered valid LPN license.  Students who have probationary status, a suspended or revoked LPN licenses are not eligible to enter the nursing program.

Evidence of TEAS VII Score

Evidence of high school algebra, biology/ lab, chemistry: If a student has successfully completed BIO 141 and BIO 142, the high school chemistry requirement is waived.

Successful completion of pre-requisite courses: SDV 101 ENG 111 BIO 141 PSY 230 PHI 220 BIO 142 BIO 150 These courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or above and cumulative GPA of 2.5.

Service region students (Bland, Carroll, Wythe, Grayson, Smyth (East of Marion) counties, and the city of Galax) are considered before out-of- region and out-of-state students.

 

If more students who meet the above admission requirements apply for admission than there are positions available, the admission policy rubric will be followed to rank students.

Core Performance Standards for Admission and Progression

Issue	Standard	Some Examples of Necessary Activities not all inclusive)
Critical Thinking	Critical thinking ability sufficient for clinical judgment	Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations Develop nursing care plans, evaluate the plan of care and revise as appropriate Use relevant data to support the decision-making process Identify priorities of care based on analysis of data Exhibit arithmetic competence that would allow the student to read, understand and perform calculations for computing dosages
Professionalism	Interpersonal abilities sufficient to interact respectfully, ethically, and professionally with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds	Establish rapport (relationship) with patients/clients and colleagues Respect cultural diversity and the rights of others Capacity to engage in successful conflict resolution Demonstrate Personal and Peer accountability Integrates ethical behavior in Nursing Practice Recognizes that as a student they represent the nursing profession and must behave accordingly with others in class, lab, and clinical
Communication	Communication abilities sufficient for interaction with others in verbal, written, and electronic format	Write and speak English effectively so as to be understood by the general public Explain treatment procedures, initiate health teaching, document and interpret nursing actions and patient/client responses Interpret nonverbal cues and behaviors
Mobility	Sufficient to move from room to room and maneuver in small spaces	Move around in patients’ rooms, work spaces, and treatment areas; stand for prolonged hours; administer cardiopulmonary procedures
Motor Skills	Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe care	Perform physical activities necessary to do basic fundamental nursing skills such as correct handwashing techniques, donning sterile gloves, mask, and gown, providing assistance with activities of daily living, position patients/clients Manipulate instruments, supplies, and equipment with speed, dexterity, precision, and accuracy Calibrate and use equipment; grasp small objects, pinch/pick or otherwise work with fingers,
Hearing Acuity	Ability sufficient to monitor and assess health needs	Hear monitor alarms, emergency alarms, auscultatory sounds, and cries for help respond to patient with or without view of patient’s face
Visual	Visual ability sufficient for observation and assessment necessary for safe nursing care	Observe patient/client responses and recognize subtle physical changes Read small print, gauges, thermometers, measuring cups, syringes, and other equipment Identify hazards in the environment (safety rails, restraints, water spills, and harmful situations) Correctly visualize written words and information on paper and on a computer screen
Tactile	Tactile ability sufficient for physical assessment	Perform palpation, functions of physical examination and/or those related to therapeutic intervention, e.g., insertion of a catheter Correctly perform skills that require tactile sensation
Emotional Stability	Emotional stability sufficient to tolerate rapidly changing conditions and environmental stress	Respond appropriately to suggestions for improvement Accept criticism Establish therapeutic interpersonal boundaries. Provide clients with emotional support. Adapt to changing environment and stress while maintaining            professional conduct and standards without displaying hostility, agitation, rudeness or belligerence. Poses no threat to self or others. Perform potentially stressful tasks concurrently Mental and physical ability to demonstrate good judgment in decision making, in order to maintain safety and security of patients and to behave appropriately with patients, staff, students, and supervisors.
Attendance	The ability to get to required classes and clinical assignments, be on time, and complete all required course work and clinical shifts	Manages work to meet deadlines Arrives on time, well prepared to fully participate If unable to attend clinical or class, proactively communicates as directed
Technology Utilization	Demonstrate the ability to utilize technology for the purpose of scientific inquiry, documentation of health care data, and the delivery of safe patient care	Conduct web-based searches for the purpose of scholarly inquiry aimed at improving of delivering safe patient care Access, participate in, and successfully complete web-based assignments Timely and accurately access, document, and communicate health information using electronic health information technology systems Safely apply therapeutic and diagnostic technology as required for the delivery of safe and effective patient care.

 

Students who have a documented disability need to register with Disability Support Services. Refer to the WCC Student Handbook for more information. It is the student’s responsibility to provide their IAP (Instructional Accommodations Plan) to course faculty. IAP’s are not retroactive. Students must meet the essential functional abilities with or without accommodation to be admitted to or continue in the Nursing Program.

 

Criminal Background Check Policy

Criminal background checks are required by clinical agencies used by Wytheville Community College for all Health Profession students.  A criminal background check will be performed by an approved third-party vendor as designated by Wytheville Community College.  Students are responsible for completing the necessary forms and payment for the background check.  Students who do not meet the criteria set forth by the clinical agencies will not be eligible to continue in the nursing program.  If a change occurs at any time while the student is still enrolled in the program, the student will notify the Program Head, agree to resubmit, and incur the cost of, a background check and/ or to the third party utilized by Wytheville Community College.  If the student fails to comply with this agreement, the student will not be allowed in a clinical setting and will result in a clinical failure. Students will sign the Student Statement of Criminal Background Check each semester while enrolled in the program. Students who are not successful in the program will submit to a new background check and drug screen prior to re-entering into the program.

 

Drugs and Alcohol Policy

No student shall be under the influence of, use, consume, possess, purchase, sell, dispense, distribute, manufacture, or display any illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages while on duty.  No student shall violate any federal or state criminal drug statue at any time.  No student will perform duties under the influence of prescription or non-prescription drugs which may affect the student’s ability to perform safely or effectively. The use of marijuana, regardless of medical marijuana prescription, is not permissible while associated with the program. Violation of this policy will result in dismissal from the program.

• The term “on duty” includes class time, clinical time, break time, and meal time on any site in which a Wytheville Community College class or clinical is taught.
• The term “under the influence” includes not only obvious impairment but also having a level of illegal drugs or alcohol in the body that would produce a positive result in a drug or alcohol screening test.  This includes any substance that will impair judgement.
• The term “illegal drugs” used in this policy includes not only any drug which is not legally obtainable, but controlled substance for which the student does not have a lawful prescription or which the student is using in a non-prescribed manner.
• All Health Profession Programs maintain the right to require any student to undergo the appropriate kinds of testing at any time during the program to determine that the student is fit for duty.
• If a student refuses to be tested for drugs or alcohol as requested or if a student attempts to alter or tamper with a sample or any part of the testing process, they will be subject to dismissal from the program.
• Any student taking prescribed medication or over-the-counter medication which may affect the ability to perform their duties safely and effectively is expected to discuss the situation with a full-time faculty member.
• Students are subject to disciplinary action, including course or program suspension or dismissal, under certain circumstances.  These circumstances include but are not limited to the following:  coming to clinical and demonstrating behavior that reflects impairment of judgement and/or ability to perform patient care responsibilities, such as, but not limited to, being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or being mentally or physically ill.
• Students are responsible for all costs associated with drug/alcohol testing.
• Students who are dismissed from the program for a positive drug screen may reapply for admission the next academic year providing the submission of a negative drug screen. Re-admittance will be determined by the program head, in consultation with appropriate faculty and/or clinical personnel.

 

Pursuant to United States Department of Education (US DOE) 

 

Regulation 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v), the Wytheville Community College Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program provides the following information for all prospective and current students: 

 

The Wytheville Community College ADN program meets all Virginia Board of Nursing requirements for prelicensure nursing education programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia.  

 

In addition, the WCC ADN program meets all requirements for nationally recognized accreditation by the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing. 

 

The Commonwealth of Virginia participates with 32 other states in the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) National Licensing Compact (NLC) to allow nurses licensed in one state to provide nursing care across state lines in other compact states.  

 

States currently in the NLC are found at: https://www.nursecompact.com/.

 

Prospective and current students are strongly encouraged to evaluate all state requirements in jurisdictions where they intend to practice nursing.  

 

A list of all state requirements is found at: https://www.ncsbn.org/nursing-regulation/education/board-of-nursing-licensure-requirements.page#iw_comp1658124521632.

 

WCC has not determined if the ADN program meets the requirements of any other states. 

This statement serves to meet the USDOE regulation until further notice.