If you have attended college previously, a minimum GPA of 2.5 or better is required.

• National League for Nursing Pre-Admission RN Examination.  This examination is required.  Scores will be sent directly to the School from the NLN.  A mimium composite norm score in the 55th percentile is required.  A minimum verbal score in the 45th percentile and minimum 65th percentile in the math and science section is recommended.  NLN evaluation scores are valid for two years.
 
• Computer:  All students must have a computer—or access to a computer.  The School’s Math for Medications is offered as an online course.  Students are expected to possess basic computer literacy skills (including proficiency with word processing and electronic mail) and have the ability to utilize the Internet as a research tool.
• Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).  All students are required to purchase a PDA for use during clinical rotations.  

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND ABILITIES FOR GRADUATION 
To successfully complete the program, the student must demonstrate:

1.  The ability to assess patients and their environment to safely deliver nursing care (examples include but are not limited to the following: detect changes in skin temperature and color, detect changes in patient’s cognitive/psychological/physical condition).

2.  The ability/stamina to safely implement nursing care to patients of all ages (examples include but are not limited to the following: perform CPR, safely transfer patients in and out of bed, lift, move and position patients and equipment, hang IV bags at the appropriate level, maneuver in small spaces, move around in patient rooms, workspaces and treatment areas). 

3.  The necessary manual dexterity to prepare and administer medications via the required route e.g., intramuscular, subcutaneous, intravenous.         

4.  Possession of gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective nursing care (examples include but are not limited to the following: ability to calibrate and use equipment, insert catheters, manipulate intravenous equipment). 

5.  The ability to communicate clearly and effectively regarding treatments, procedures and patient teaching; the ability to record all information accurately. 

6.  The ability to exercise ethical judgment and think critically in the delivery of patient care:  (a) collecting, analyzing and integrating information and knowledge; (b) processing information accurately and quickly to prioritize tasks; and (c) predicting possible outcomes, applying knowledge and using the nursing process in a systematic way. 

7.  The ability to allay patient fears and anxieties using self as a therapeutic tool (examples include but are not limited to the following: develop sensitive interpersonal relationships with patients/families, demonstrate flexibility to function effectively under stress and adapt to changing situations, handle strong emotions, demonstrate compassion, focus and maintain attention to tasks). 

8.  Sufficient hearing and vision to carry out necessary patient assessments and treatments (examples include but are not limited to the following: detect sounds related to bodily functions using a stethoscope, detect audible alarms, such as monitors or call bells, detect unsafe temperature levels in heat-producing devices, accurately read the volumes in fluid collection devices, detect fire in a patient care area and initiate emergency action). 

9.  The ability to function collaboratively with peers and other health care team members. 

10. The ability to respond to clinical situations in a timely manner to ensure patient safety. 

11. Proficiency in basic computer skills (including word processing, electronic mail and utilizing the Internet as a research tool).