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Core Performance Standards

Nursing is an occupation which involves daily contact with individuals and requires ability to perform a wide variety of activities. Some individuals might not be suited to perform the activities of a registered nurse. Many hospitals require physical examination, laboratory testing and x-rays prior to hiring an individual to rule out pre-existing conditions which could cause problems in performing the expected duties. If you have any condition which might impair your ability to perform the activities required of a registered nurse, you might wish to reconsider applying for admission to the nursing program. Indicated below are core performance standards for admission and progression in the BSN program.

Core Performance

Standard

Examples of Necessary Activities (not all-inclusive)

Critical Thinking

Clear and rational thinking and analysis utilized to develop objective opinion to form an educated judgement.

Clinical judgement and reasoning utilized in the clinical setting and exams.

Communication

Communication abilities sufficient for interaction with others in verbal and written form.

Explain treatment procedures, initiate health teaching, document and interpret nursing actions and patient responses.

Interpersonal Relationships

Respectful speaking and conversational skills utilized to communicate and interact with individuals or groups for successful professional interactions.

Open and respectful demeanor utilizing both verbal and non-verbal communication.

Mobility

Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room and maneuver in small spaces.

Move around in patient rooms, work spaces and treatment areas, bend and stoop, push and pull objects such as wheelchair, cart, gurney and/or equipment. Administer cardio-pulmonary procedures.

Motor Skills

Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care.

Calibrate and use equipment, lift and/or re-position patients, administer medications orally and parenterally.

Hearing

Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess health needs.

Hears and responds to verbal communication and requests: monitor alarms, emergency signals, percussion and auscultation sound, and hear cries for help.

Visual

Visual ability sufficient for observation and assessment necessary in nursing care.

Observes patient responses; recognizes subtle physical changes.

Tactile

Tactile ability sufficient for physical assessment and performance of skilled nursing activities.

Performs palpation, functions of physical examination and/or those activities related to therapeutic nursing interventions, e.g. insertion of a catheter or starting an IV.