NURS 3613 202: Basic Nursing

GenAI Policy 

In this course, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools—including but not limited to ChatGPT, Grammarly AI, Quillbot, Bard, Copilot, Jasper, or any other text-generating, paraphrasing, or content-creation software—is strictly prohibited in all nursing coursework unless explicitly authorized in writing by the course faculty. Students must complete and submit all academic and clinical coursework using their own independent work, analysis, and writing.

Allowed: Students may use AI for:

• Brainstorming: Idea generation, questions to consider, themes or angles to explore.
• Outlining: Structuring your own paper, presentation, or project (e.g., headings, subheadings, sequence of points).
• Planning tasks: Milestones, timeliness, checklists for your workflow
• Not Allowed: Students may not use AI for:
• Writing or generating any portion of an assignment
• Paraphrasing or rewording content
• Summarizing articles or research
• Producing discussion board posts or responses
• Writing care plans, SOAP notes, or clinical documentation
• Creating PowerPoint slides or poster content
• Submitting AI-produced text (even if “heavily edited”) as your own
• Producing reference pages
• Editing grammar, APA, or formatting using AI tools

Source Verification Requirement

The use of automated reference or citation generators (e.g., Zotero, MyBib, Citation Machine) is not recommended and highly discouraged/prohibited to be used due to producing incorrect citations. Citations are to be formatted according to the American Psychological Association manual, following the edition specified in the course syllabus.

Students are required to include direct and clearly accessible links to all sources referenced in their written assignments. This requirement encompasses a diverse range of materials, including but not limited to journal articles, peer-reviewed studies, credible websites, and professional reports. The links should be formatted in a way that directs faculty and instructors straight to the original source, allowing for convenient verification of citations. It is essential that students take the time to double-check their links to guarantee that they lead directly to the content cited, thereby enhancing the overall quality and trustworthiness of their work.

Failure to adhere to the above policy will result in the following consequences:

Point Deductions

· Any assignments with broken or non-functional links will receive point deductions, impacting the overall grade as dictated by the lead faculty.

Exclusion of References

· References that cannot be verified due to missing or incorrect links, screenshots, or lack of URLs/DOIs will not be counted toward the assignment's reference requirements.

Reduced Academic Integrity

· Failure to properly format citations and provide verifiable sources may negatively affect the assessment of the student’s work and their ability to demonstrate academic rigor.

· Repeated or serious violations of the policy will be referred to the TAMIU Honor Code for formal review. This includes, but is not limited to, submission of unverifiable sources, falsified or fabricated references, persistent use of broken or misleading links, or failure to correct issues after written notice.

· Such referrals may result in institutional sanctions in accordance with university policy, which may include a formal warning, assignment failure, course failure, or additional disciplinary actions as determined by the committee. These measures are implemented to protect the integrity of academic work and uphold professional and ethical standards expected in nursing education.

OFFICE HOURS: Please book with assigned professor unless arrangements have been made prior to meeting. This will ensure that every student has the opportunity to meet with the lead instructors. Follow the chain of command if there is a concern/issue you wish to address. Please make sure you specify the reason for requesting a meeting with the lead instructor in your booking appointment. Exams cannot be reviewed in virtual appointments.

Clinical portion of this course will be taught face to face in the nursing lab/clinical setting. However, due to limited clinical sites clinical hours/dates are subject to change depending on availability. Clinical schedule will be distributed to students ahead of time. Any changes will be communicated via Blackboard email.

CLINICAL FACULTY:

Maria Sanchez, MSN, RN

Canseco Hall 315M

mariad.sanchez@tamiu.edu

956-326-3281

Iris A. Santos, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC

956-326-3112

Canseco Hall 313C

iris.santos@tamiu.edu

Denise Morales, MSN, RN

Canseco Hall 313D

denise.morales@tamiu.edu

956-326-3282

1. Synthesize knowledge from the arts, humanities, sciences, and other disciplines in developing a framework for nursing knowledge and practice.
2. Explore the effect of variations in health status, developmental processes, values, beliefs and attitudes, history, and environment on nursing care needs
3. Use critical thinking, clinical judgement/decision making, problem-solving, and the research process in the development of nursing knowledge and practice.
4. Assess, diagnose, plan, implement, and evaluate evidence-based and culturally appropriate safe nursing car with patients, families, populations and communities.
5. Evaluate utilization of health promotion strategies in the development of nursing practice.
6. Develop professional nursing practice frameworks and roles, including the provider of patient-centered care, health care team member/collaborator, leader/manager, educator, scholar, patient-safety advocate, activist, mentor, and entrepreneur.
7. Evaluate the impact of evolving technological, socioeconomic, political and demographic changes on nursing practice and health care systems.
8. Adhere to legal and ethical principles in the development of professional nursing practice.
9. Articulate a commitment to life-long learning.
10. Participate in nursing-and health-related service opportunities.

1. Associate concepts and principles from the arts, sciences, humanities, and nursing as a foundation for making beginning practice decisions for adult clients. (1,3,4)

2. Understand the influence of social, cultural, ethnic, spiritual, psychological, and economic factors on nursing care. (2,4,7,8)

3. Identify the ethical, legal, and professional principles which underlie nursing and health care. (6,8)

4. Use critical thinking to determine the pathophysiologic and psychosocial processes associated with health care alterations using the nursing process to develop holistic plans of care. (1, 2, 3, 4, 7).

5. Demonstrate beginning nursing skills to provide safe, holistic care to adult clients. (2,3,4,5,6)

6. Discuss holistic nursing care among diverse populations, including individuals, families, and communities, and identify relevant research. (2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9)

7. Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to provide holistic care to adult clients and provide resources as needed. (1,5,6,9,10)

To go to the bookstore, click here.

**Preferable paper copy of book since we will be using this in clinical practice**

• Nurse’s Pocket Guide; Doenges, Moorehouse, Murr; 15^th edition; F.A. Davis. 
• Davis’s Drug Guide for Nurses; Vallerande, Sanoski; 16^th edition (or more recent drug book)’ F.A. Davis

We will be using ATI Engage in this course. It is a mandatory resource. ATI Engage Fundamentals will be (part of your homework/a way to track participation/a practice quizzing environment/additional resource) and will count for (5%) part of your grade.  Please create an account and join the ATI class by January 21, 2026.

To begin working in ATI:

Step 1: How to create a New Student Account

Step 2: Enter Product Access Code for Inclusive Access

Students will need to create an ATI account first and then enter their cohort CDN product access code.

An orientation video that covers everything you need to know to get started can be found here: ATItesting.com

If you’d like additional help, please visit the ATI Support Page for helpful videos and answers to most common questions!

Minimum Computer/ Technology Requirements:

It is recommended that you meet the technical requirements listed on the Instructional Technology and Distance Education Services’ webpage when using the learning management system (LMS) of the University.

Additional Hardware. For this class, you will need the following additional hardware: a webcam and microphone for VoiceThread discussions. Recently purchased laptops may have these built-in web cameras. If you do not have this equipment, it is recommended to purchase a stand-alone webcam, microphone, or a webcam with a built-in microphone from your local electronic store or any online store.

Additional Software. You will need the following additional software: Microsoft PowerPoint for viewing lesson presentations and Microsoft Word for viewing course files and submitting assignments. TAMIU Students may access online versions of this software through their Dusty Office 365 account at https://dusty.tamiu.edu/. This site also provides students access to download the Microsoft suite for educational use. See instructions for downloading the Microsoft Office suite.

Note: Students if you do not own the required hardware, software or do not have access to internet, it will be highly challenging for you to make any progress in this class. However, my goal is to assist you to find solutions and guide you appropriately most of the required materials can either be found free of charge at TAMIU’s library, computer labs, and classrooms.  In addition, you may also purchase any of these items at any electronic store.

Learning Management System (Blackboard).  Students are provided with guides on how to use the Blackboard LMS. Guides may be available at Instructional Technology and Distance Education Services' Student eLearning Tutorial Videos page or by contacting the eLearning team at elearning@tamiu.edu.

METHODS OF EVALUATION AND COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

Module Exams (3 Exams; Each worth 20%) 60% 

Comprehensive Final Exam 20% 

End of Course Exams 10% 

Case Studies, Adaptive Quiz, Assignments, Class Quiz 5%

End of Course Examination Review/Remediation Packet 5%

Skills/Lab Assignments Pass/Fail 

**Standardized Exam: GRADING WILL BE AS FOLLOWS**

At the end of the semester students will be required to take the Proctored standardized course exams. The score on this exam will count as a grade and will count for 10% of the course grade. 

Students will receive review packets based on their performance on the end of course exam. These packets will be counted as an assignment for the course and will count as 5% of the course grade. All students will be required to complete the review packets by the due date assigned by course faculty. Failure to complete the review packets will result in the student receiving an Incomplete Grade for the course. Information regarding the Incomplete, Withdraw, and Dismissal process can be found in the TAMIU BSN Handbook 

https://www.tamiu.edu/conhs/documents/handbooks/bsnhandbook.pdf  

Examination Policy and Guidelines

Accurate assessment of knowledge and competencies is crucial to ensure that students process the necessary information for safe practice in clinical settings. Accurate and valid test data are also necessary to provide students with practice prior to the licensure examination; most nursing course examinations use an NCLEX format, which is different from other methods of testing. Test items assess the student’s ability to apply and analyze knowledge learned in the course.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure fair, consistent, and secure testing practices for all nursing students during examinations. The policy promotes academic integrity, professional conduct, and an environment conducive to accurate assessment of knowledge, skills, and critical thinking required for safe nursing practice.

PROCEDURE:

1. All face-to-face class examinations are proctored in a designated, supervised testing area. All Exam dates and formats will be communicated in the course syllabus.

a. Students must sit in assigned or randomized seats as directed by the instructor or proctor.

b. All personal belongings, including bags, watches, and phones, must be stored in a designated area away from the testing computer site.

c. Students are expected to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Late arrivals of more than 15 minutes without notice may not be admitted and will be considered a missed exam.

d. All materials brought into an exam must be left in an area designated by the proctor. The faculty or designated proctor will provide students with a pencil and sheet of paper, if allowed.

e. Students may wear coats or jackets during the examination period at the discretion of the proctor. All long sleeves should be rolled up to the forearms. The lead faculty will determine what additional aids will be allowed or used during the examination.

f. No food or drinks are allowed during the examination period.

g. Restroom use during testing will be documented and allowed at the faculty’s discretion.

h. Prohibited behaviors include:

i. Copying, sharing, or discussing the exam before, during, or after an exam.

ii. Using unauthorized aids (e.g., notes, devices, online resources)

iii. Impersonating another student or allowing someone else to take an examination.

iv. Recording or photographing test materials.

v. Talking, note sharing, or any form of collaboration.

i. Students must complete required computer system checks before the test. The use of a secure testing platform (Lockdown Browser) is mandatory. Once logged in, the student will no longer be able to leave the testing site without notifying the faculty or the proctor. Any form of communication with other students during this time will constitute a violation of the Academic Conduct of the TAMIU Honor Code Rules.

j. If the proctor suspects any sharing of information during an examination, all students involved will receive a ZERO (0) on the examination or quiz and are subject to Article 7 Violations of Academic Conduct of the TAMIU Honor Code Rules. This includes:

i. Students in possession of cell phones or any other electronic device during an examination (i.e., mobile phones, smartwatches, earbuds, or tablets).

ii. Students found obtaining or suspected of obtaining information from sources other than what has been allowed by the faculty or proctor.

2. Professional conduct during testing.

a. Students are expected to:

i. Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and respect.

ii. Follow all directions given by faculty or proctors.

iii. Maintain a quiet and orderly testing environment.

iv. Adhere to conduct and professional standards during testing.

3. All exam materials are the property of the Dr. F. M. Canseco School of Nursing.

4. A student who is removed from a quiz or examination for suspected sharing of information may be asked to leave the examination area and will receive a Zero (0).

5. Any student who must be absent from an examination must notify the lead faculty PRIOR to the examination. The lead faculty shall be notified in a written format, preferably via Blackboard Email, that includes a date and time. Students are responsible for providing satisfactory evidence to faculty members of their absence. The faculty member will decide if the excuse is valid and may provide the following option.

a. The weight of the missed exam may be added to the student’s final examination, ONLY upon lead faculty approval. Students who fail to notify the lead faculty before the examination period will not be allowed to carry the weight of the missed exam to their final exam; thus, they will receive a Zero (0) for the missed exam.

6. Only one exam can be missed and allowed to count toward the final exam weight. Any other missed exam(s) will be assigned a grade of ZERO (0).

7. Students who need to leave the examination area prior to completion will be requested to leave all testing materials with the proctor, and the examination is considered completed. Students may not leave the examination area without the proctors’ acknowledgement.

8. After the examination period, all examination materials (exam, additional work paper) shall be submitted to the proctor. Students who leave the exam room with any examination material, as a result of their actions, will earn a grade of zero (0) for the exam.

9. Examination grades will be posted per the TAMIU student handbook or course syllabus.

10. Students requiring accommodations must contact the Office of Disability Services.

11. Course faculty may elect to establish other requirements at their discretion, but in no case will these requirements be less stringent than those in this policy.

12. No exam grade shall be dropped when determining the overall course grade.

13. Pop quizzes may be given at the discretion of the lead faculty.

14. The final exam must be taken at the time specified in the course syllabus. If a student is unable to attend the final exam, the student must notify the lead faculty BEFORE the exam takes place. This notification should be submitted in writing, ideally through Blackboard Email, and must include the date and time of the absence. If a student misses the final exam, the lead faculty may, at their discretion, arrange a makeup exam with similar content on a designated date and time

15. Any student with a conflict in exam schedule due to University business (e.g., UIL, athletics) must refer to the TAMIU catalog.

TESTING: Any student who must be absent from an examination must notify the lead faculty PRIOR to the examination. The lead faculty shall be notified in a written format, preferably via Blackboard Email that includes a date and time. Students who fail to notify the lead faculty before the examination period will not be allowed to carry the weight of the missed exam to their final exam; thus, receiving a Zero (0) for the missed exam. If provided, review rationales after you have completed the exam in a proctored setting. Makeup exams will not be allowed. No exam material can be removed from testing site. No cell phones, apple watches, or drinks/food allowed in testing site/area.

REMEDIATION:  Students obtaining a 75% or lower on Unit Exams will be required to see faculty and a Remediation Plan will be initiated. Please book with assigned professor.

LEARNING CONTRACT STATEMENT FOR BSN STUDENTS:

Students will be assigned weekly NCLEX and Next Generation style questions as part of their assignments. These questions will help prepare students for the end of course and end of program standardized exams and for NCLEX. These questions will be assigned a percentage of the total weight of the course grade.

All students who score 75% or below on any periodical exam of a nursing course will be given a Learning Contract from faculty. A Learning Contract is created to facilitate student success in the course and in the BSN program. Failure to comply with the requirements listed in the Learning Contract signed both by faculty and student will result in an Incomplete Grade and will prevent a student from progressing to the next academic semester.

Students scoring less than 75% or below should make an appointment with their assigned clinical faculty to sign a learning contract and in order to allow all students an opportunity to meet with the professor. Students are encouraged to make an appointment with the lead faculty should the clinical faculty member assigned be unable to meet with the student. Please keep in mind that slots are limited. If you are unable to make a scheduled appointment, please notify the faculty in advance.

CLINICAL HOUR BREAKDOWN: This course has a total of 126 hours of clinical.

Clinical Experience                                                             Hours 

Skills Lab/Low Fidelity Simulation                                             38

Direct Patient Care                                                                    64

High Fidelity Simulation                                                            12

Computer Activities/Case Studies                                            12

Total                                                                                     126 hours

Clinical Schedule is subject to change based on availability of clinical sites. Any changes made will be directly communicated via Blackboard. It is the student's responsibility to frequently check Blackboard and TAMIU Dusty email for any changes made to the clinical schedule.

CLINICAL ACTIVITIES:  Required clinical paperwork will be graded as pass/fail. A student must pass the clinical component of a course in order to pass the course. Clinical Assignments will have separate due dates assigned by the clinical instructor.

1. Care plans: Students will complete a care plan for each patient.
2. Clinical Assignments
3. Skills Checklist
4. Students will be provided three opportunities to satisfactorily demonstrate competency on demonstrated skills.  Students unable to satisfactorily demonstrate competency in the following skills: PPE (Including Sterile Gloving), Vital Signs, Medication administration will not be able to attend the Clinical Rotations and will receive an “F” for the clinical component of the course.

I.          CSON GRADING AND GRADE ROUNDING:

1.      The CSON has adopted a grading scale in line with other Texas schools of nursing:

A = 90 - 100 B = 80 - 89 C = 75 – 79 F- 74 and below

2.      Nursing students must achieve a grade of C or higher in both theory and clinical components of a course in order to pass that course and progress in the program. A grade of F in either theory or clinical components will constitute a course failure.

3.      To pass a nursing course and progress in the program, a nursing student must attain an exam average (includes tests and the final) of 75% or higher.

4.      To pass a nursing course and progress in the program, a nursing student must attain an overall course average of 75% or higher.

5.      Read the CSON Grading, and Grade Rounding Policy found in the CSON student handbook for additional information on examinations.