COURSE HANDBOOK

Mt. Vernon Township High School

Area Vocational Center

Health Science Technology

Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program

2024-2025

BNATP COURSE SYLLABUS

Instructor:  Tara Heinzmann, RN                                B112 and Lab B114

Schedule:                1st and 2nd hour

3rd and 4th hour        

6th and 7th hour

Contact Info:        Classroom phone number (618) 246-1823

                        Download the “Remind” App.

                                  Countryside Manor (618) 242-1800                          

                        Email: theinzmann@MVTHS.org        

Course Prerequisites

• Junior or Senior in High School and 16 years of age by course completion.
• 53 or higher on Accuplacer to receive dual credit
• Valid Social Security card or Illinois Taxpayer Identification Card
• 2-Step TB test completed and result given to the instructor two weeks prior to clinical orientation
• Health Occupation Core Skills and Medical Terminology recommended
• Completed the MVTHS Healthcare (CNA) Application

Course Description

The Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program is open to juniors and seniors interested in pursuing a career in the nursing profession. The coursework will prepare students to work in a variety of healthcare settings. Students will have the opportunity to care for clients in a local nursing home. Grading is based on the mastery of nursing skills, application of theory, and adaptation to the work environment.

In order for a student to sit for the state exam, they must:

• Pass the theory portion with a score of 77% or higher.
• Receive a passing grade in clinical (pass/fail).
• Achieve competency in all 21 mandatory skills set forth by IDPH (pass/fail).
• Complete a CPR course during the BNATP program.
• Fulfill all required theory and clinical hours.

Meeting these requirements will place the student on the Illinois Department of Public Health registry as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Students will schedule their exam once the BNATP program is completed. The cost of the exam, $85.00, will be paid by the student.

Parents/guardians will be required to sign releases and permission slips for all activities. Students will be responsible for driving themselves or arranging rides for clinic and job shadow activities.

Supplies Needed and Costs for the Year (Paid by Student):

• Large 3” Binder*
• Black ink pens
• Small composition book for clinic
• Gait belt
• Uniform and shoes
• Pocket notebook
• Watch with a second hand
• Stethoscope (optional; available in the lab)
• 2-step TB skin tests: $50 (two appointments, $25 each)
• State exam fee: $85 (to be paid online with registration)

*Note: There may be some binders left from the previous year available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Textbooks and Chromebook will be provided.

If a student encounters any difficulty with supplies or payment, please contact the instructor as soon as possible.

Tuberculosis (TB) screening

A 2-step TB screening is required. Students must provide proof of testing to the instructor at least two weeks prior to clinical orientation. Failure to submit this documentation will result in a zero for the clinical grade, and the student will not be allowed to continue into the second semester of the program.

The Jefferson County Health Department (call 244-7134) offers TB tests by appointment on Mondays and Tuesdays. If a student is covered by a medical card, please provide it to the Health Department. Otherwise, the cost is $25 per step, totaling $50 for both steps. Payment is due at the appointment (cash, check, or card; note that a service fee applies to card payments). When scheduling, inform the provider that you require two appointments for two steps."

Testing may be completed through your physician if they offer the service. Documentation of both steps must be provided.

The Health Department will give specific instructions regarding the test, but students should plan to schedule it as soon as possible—do not wait until the week before clinical to complete your testing. If you have a positive reaction to the test, the Health Department will provide instructions, and you will be responsible for submitting clearance to the instructor. If you are already aware that you are a positive TB reactor, you must obtain written clearance from your primary physician.

Background Check

A background check is no longer required for secondary schools. However, students must complete a Healthcare Worker Background Check Authorization and Disclosure Form. This form will be sent home to be completed and must be returned to the instructor as soon as possible to ensure students are entered into the Illinois Healthcare Worker Registry. Additionally, students need to provide a copy of their social security card or taxpayer ID card by August 29th.

Method of instruction

Instruction will include lecture, discussion, video, role-play, hands-on activities, field trips, skill demonstrations, handouts, and clinical rotations (to be announced). This year, we will have all-day clinical site rotations. Students are responsible for making up any missed work in their other classes.

Method of evaluation

Assessment will include quizzes, tests, participation in lab and clinical activities, worksheets, daily work, and projects. The RLC final exam is required for dual credit. Students will also be evaluated on their professional interaction with the instructor and healthcare personnel at the clinical site. Competency in the 21 required skills is assessed on a pass/fail basis, with up to three attempts allowed for each skill.

Dual credit for the course is awarded through RLC if the student passes the ASSET test and achieves a score of 77% or higher on the RLC exam. Students will receive two separate grades for the course. Students may earn two credits for Mt Vernon High School and seven dual credits through Rend Lake College.

MVTHS grading scale:

90-100                A

80-89                B

70-79                C

60-69                D

Below 60        E

Rend Lake College Grading Scale:

93-100                A

85-92                B

77-84                C

76 and below         E

Required Manual Skills to be completed

Hand washing                                                Occupied bed

Use of Personal Protective Equipment                Transfer patient to chair or bed

Oral Care                                                Use of manual lift (Hoyer), Gait belts

Perineal care                                                Passive ROM

Nail care                                                Ambulation

Shaving                                                Positioning patient

Dressing                                                Intake and Output

Feeding                                                Temperature/pulse/respiration

Partial Bath                                                Blood pressure

Shower/Tub bath                                        Height/Weight

Side Lying positioning

COURSE ROAD MAP:

Rend Lake course content with schedule adjusted to MVTHS semester schedule.

Medical Terminology and Abbreviations

CPR and First Aid (Date to be determined)

Basic Anatomy and Physiology

Objective 1

The Healthcare System

The Nursing Assistant’s Job

Professionalism

Legal and Ethical Issues- Resident’s Rights

Long-Term Care

Workplace Safety

Patient/Resident Safety

Objective 2

Communication Skills

Overview of Long-Term Care

Those We Care For

Resident’s Environment

Admissions, Transfers, and Discharges

Infection Control

Bloodborne and Airborne Pathogens

Bedmaking

Objective 3

Integumentary A/P

Diseases and Disorders

Cleanliness and Hygiene

Grooming

Objective 4

Musculoskeletal A/P

Diseases and Disorders

Positioning, Lifting, Transferring/ ROM

Rehabilitation vs. Restorative Care

Heat/Cold

Objective 5

Cardiovascular/Respiratory A/P

Diseases and Disorders

Measuring Vital Signs

Caring of the Surgical Patient

Objective 6

Gastrointestinal/Genitourinary A/P

Diseases and Disorders

Assisting with Urinary and Bowel Elimination

Basic Nutrition

Objective 7, Part 1

Nervous System and Sensory System A/P

Diseases and Disorders

Mental Disorders

Objective 7, Part 2

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Related Disorders

Objective 8

Endocrine and Reproductive A/P

Diseases and Disorders

Caring for Patients with HIV/AIDS

Caring for People with Cancer

Caring for People Who are Terminally Ill

Caring for People Who are Dying

Caring for Developmentally Disabled

Introduction to Home Health Care

Infection Control and Safety in the Home

Job Seeking Skills

Classwork/Assignments/Tests/Quizzes

Assignments and Grading:

• Black ink is preferred for assignments and tests. Grades will be based on content, neatness, and timeliness of submission.
• Classwork/Assignments: Due on Fridays or on a date specified by the instructor. Late submissions may receive half credit if turned in before the end of the semester (prior to the semester exam).
• Quizzes and Tests: Announced in advance, with material reviews provided.

Cell Phone Policy:

• No cell phone usage during class. Students must place cell phones in a designated area during quizzes and tests.

Lab Participation:

• Scheduled Lab Time: Includes scheduled lab time in the first semester and practice labs throughout the year. Participation points will be awarded for certain labs.
• Skills Mastery: Students must master and be evaluated as competent in 21 required skills by the end of the year or on an assigned lab check-off day. Any missed lab time must be made up.
• Lab Equipment: Students are responsible for any damage to lab equipment. Beds in the lab are not for sleeping.

Binder:

• Binder: All graded assignments will be returned for students to keep in their binders, which will serve as a study resource. Binders may be collected and checked for neatness and organization, with extra credit awarded.

Clinical Assignments:

• Clinical Rotation: Dates and times will be provided in a letter sent home. It is crucial that students do not miss clinical sessions. Refer to clinical expectations.

Semester Exam:

• Final Examination: All students must take the Rend Lake College final exam in May. No exceptions will be made.

Academic Integrity:

• Cheating and Plagiarism: Academic integrity is expected. Any violations will result in disciplinary action.

RLC Dual Credit:

• Eligibility: Achieve a minimum score of 53 on the Compass Test.  Maintain a final grade average of 77% and meet all hourly and skill performance requirements.
• Final Grade: Your final RLC grade may differ from your high school grade and will be recorded on your transcript as a Spring course.

Competency Test:

• State Boards: In May, students who meet the requirements will be submitted for the state boards. An email will be sent to register for boards, and you will select the date, time, and location, paying a registration fee of $85.
• Proof of Competency: Required to enter the LPN/RN program. See the RLC syllabus for additional information.

Semester Review:

• Grade Review: Students with a grade of 76% or lower at the end of the first semester will have a conference with the instructor and administration to determine if they should continue into the second semester.
• Students who have not completed all paperwork with required TB tests will not continue to the second semester.
• Eligibility for CNA Exam: A classroom average of 77% or more in the BNATP class, a score of 77% or more on the Final Exam, completion of 40 clinical hours, and passage of 21 skills are required. The RN Instructor will make the final determination on eligibility to sit for the exam.

Medical absences

If a student becomes seriously ill or injured and misses clinical, a doctor's release is required to return to clinical practice. Alternate assignments will be provided for missed class time, but if extended absences are anticipated for recovery, a class transfer may be necessary. Completion of 40 hours of clinical practice is required to pass the course. Extended absences and extenuating circumstances will be addressed on a case-by-case basis through discussions between parents and the instructor.

Absence/Tardiness/Makeup assignments

The State of Illinois requires a minimum of 80 hours of classroom theory and 40 hours of clinical practicum. The instructor will monitor missed theory hours, allowing no more than 10 hours to be missed and made up within a semester. It is at the instructor's discretion whether a student may apply to take the CNA certification test. Attendance is ESSENTIAL for this class.

Make-Up Time: Any missed time must be made up outside of regular theory hours—during lunch, study periods, or by being excused from another class. Since this is a double-block class, missing one day requires making up two class periods within one week of the absence through additional study or completion of current assignments. Any extenuating circumstances should be discussed with the instructor as soon as possible.

1. Excused Absences: You have five (5) days to complete missed assignments and tests, according to MVTHS Policy. Test make-ups will be at the instructor's discretion. Students must come before school, during lunch, or after school to pick up work and discuss with the instructor.
2. Clinical Absences: A message must be sent to the instructor via the Remind App by 8 a.m. on the day of the clinical. Failure to do so will result in a zero for the day. Excused clinical absences will lead to an alternate assignment, but a makeup clinical day will still be required. Note: There will be only one makeup day. Clinical hours must meet the required 40 hours as mandated by the State of Illinois for certification. Clinical hours below 40 will prevent eligibility for the CNA exam.
3. In-School Suspensions or Crisis Incidents: Students may complete regular classwork without penalty, but work must be submitted by the end of the day with the ISS teacher. Missed clinical days will result in a zero and require a makeup clinical day.
4. Out-of-School Suspensions: Students will have two (2) days to make up work. Missed clinical days will result in a zero and require attendance at a makeup clinical day.
5. Truancy: Truancy will result in a zero for missed work. Tests are an exception and must be completed at the instructor's discretion. Reviews will not be provided.
6. Tardiness: Tardiness of more than two (2) minutes may result in points deducted from daily work or quizzes for that week. If you are with another teacher or counselor, be sure to bring a pass or note for exemption.

Criteria for Hours: Meeting the required hours is crucial. Do not plan to miss class or clinicals. This course demands consistent attendance and effort, with minimal exceptions for completion.

Tardiness and Discipline

Refer to MVTHS policy on tardiness and discipline measures. Students responsible for classroom disruption, disrespect, or non-compliance with rules set by the instructor and school policies will receive a zero and will not be allowed to make up missed work.

Bathroom and Water Breaks

Bathroom and water breaks are given at the instructor’s discretion and may not align with the bell schedule. Students should not leave the classroom unless they have a pass or have informed the instructor of a meeting. Locker passes will not be issued.

Classroom and Lab Expectations

BNATP students are expected to come to class clean, professional, and prepared to work. Bring all necessary items to class. Do not leave personal belongings in the classroom, lab, or at clinical sites, as the instructor will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.

                                                    CLASSROOM RULES

• Seated in your assigned chair when the bell rings
• No plagiarism.
• No devices out during class
• Take care of personal business during break
•  Ask permission to leave room, sign out and wait for pass
•  Only work/read material for this class
•  Discussion, assistance will be conducted daily 3:20-3:45
•  Keep the binder neatly on the shelf, keep up with your own textbook.
• Be respectful and take turns speaking, asking or answering questions.
• Classwork assignments due at end of day Fridays unless otherwise directed, half credit for late work unless situations previously discussed with the instructor (not after assignment due).
• This course is to train the students to work in the medical field.  As such, any dress, conduct or speech that is deemed unprofessional by the Instructor will be discussed, students will be counseled and if needed. 
• Non-compliance will be reported to parents as well as discipline measures taken.                                          

LAB RULES

• No horseplay, lying, sitting on beds (unless practicing), moving equipment
• Clean areas, fold linen and return to closet
• Do not leave books, uniforms or binders in Lab

CLINICAL EXPECTATIONS

We invite our BNATP students to participate in clinical facilities where they can learn, apply, and hone their skills. The necessary paperwork and medical screenings must be completed and submitted beforehand. More information will be sent home with students as the clinical dates approach. A calendar of scheduled clinic dates will also be provided—please note that students must attend all scheduled clinics.

The scrub color for this year is black, paired with either white or black (black and white) tennis shoes. Students must ensure that their uniform fits properly—not too tight, nor excessively loose or baggy. A gait belt is also required as part of the uniform. Other uniform items that need to be collected include a solid white or black undershirt or tank top (without any writing) and white or black socks.

CLINICAL CONDUCT

• Professionalism: Display professional behavior at all times.
• Teamwork: Assist others when needed or when asked.
• Visibility: Do not hide or be unavailable to the instructor.
• Instructions: Follow all instructions and ask questions when needed.
• Respect for Property: Be careful with resident property and facility equipment. We are responsible for any damaged or lost items.
• Clinic Attendance: Clinic groups must meet with the instructor at the start time and exit the facility with the instructor at the end of the clinic. Tardiness will result in a deduction of points from your clinical grade. Students are not allowed to leave or go outside the facility.
• Transportation: Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the clinic. If a student is unable to secure a ride, they should inform the instructor as soon as possible. Clinical hours are from 8:30 AM to 2:45 PM unless instructed otherwise.
• Meals: Students should bring a lunch (preferably non-heated) and snacks to consume during breaks at the designated time and area. Keep your lunch in a small cooler or pack.
• Substance Policy: No drugs or alcohol are permitted. Any student suspected of being under the influence will not be allowed to enter the clinic, will face disciplinary action, receive a 0 for the clinic grade, and forfeit approval to sit for the competency exam.
• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited. Any student who smells of tobacco will be sent to the MVTHS discipline officer and will not be allowed to attend the clinic. The student will receive a 0 for the clinic grade and will not be allowed to make up the time, thereby forfeiting approval to sit for the competency exam.
• Cellphones: Are not allowed on the floor at clinicals under any circumstances. It is best to leave them in your car or in the break area (the school or facility are not responsible if lost). Parents may contact the facility (phone number on page one) in emergencies. Pictures are prohibited. Any student seen with their phone in a patient care area will be sent back to the school and receive a zero for clinical.
• Behavior: Be courteous to everyone. A student will be removed from the clinic if the instructor receives any complaints.
• Confidentiality: You will be required to sign and abide by a confidentiality agreement and pass a HIPAA privacy test before participating in the clinic. Violation of this policy will result in removal from the clinic.
• Clinical Assignments: The instructor makes all clinical assignments. Students are not allowed to change assignments or swap without instructor approval. Stay in the area you are assigned.
• Street Clothes: Do not wear street clothes under your scrubs. If you do, you will be sent home with a grade of zero. You are not allowed to change clothes at the facility. Students will be graded on proper uniforms and prepared.

CLINICAL DRESS CODE

• Uniform: Scrubs must be black, clean, neatly pressed, and free of wrinkles, stains, rips, or loose threads. Pants should be hemmed and not dragged on the ground. Drawstring pants are acceptable, but they must fit securely and not require constant adjustment. May wear joggers if they are scrub material. Jackets must be scrub material and black.
• Undergarments: Should not be visible through the uniform. A plain, solid-colored black or white undershirt (without writing) may be worn under the scrub top if desired.
• Shoes: Must be white or black (or black and white), nursing or tennis shoe style. No canvas or shoes with holes are permitted. Clogs and Crocs are not allowed. Recommend shoes that dry quickly.
• Socks: Black or white socks are required.
• Scrubs: MUST be worn to clinical. May be worn to class, but students must change into a fresh uniform after clinical.
• Jewelry: Only small stud earrings are allowed. A watch with a second hand is mandatory. No facial jewelry, tongue rings, or necklaces are permitted. The wearing of wedding bands or religious jewelry will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Nails: Artificial nails, including tips, are prohibited (OSHA regulation). Nails must be clean, clipped, filed, and kept at a natural length.
• Hair: Must be clean and pulled up. Male students must be clean-cut, with long hair pulled into a ponytail and out of the face. Facial hair must be groomed.
• Makeup: Should be light and appropriate. Avoid heavy eyeliner or bright lipstick.
• Fragrance: No perfume, cologne, scented body lotion, or strong aftershave is allowed.
• Tattoos: Any visible tattoos should be discussed with the instructor, who will decide if they need to be covered.
• Nametags: Must be worn at all times. If lost, a replacement will cost $5.
• Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene, including clean skin, deodorant application, clean teeth, and fresh breath.

Covid Considerations

At this time, the plan is for us to complete all of our clinical hours at Countryside Nursing Home.  At this time COVID vaccination is not a requirement. The school will follow the facility policy and changes will be communicated to students and parents/guardians.

Graduation

Students can purchase a CNA pin at the end of the program to be pinned at graduation.

SCHOLARSHIP/internship

St Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship

BPW Dora Brydon Nursing Scholarship

Dr. Taylor Memorial Scholarship

Crossroads Community Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship

Livingston Pharmacy Scholarship

Peg Edwards Memorial Scholarship

Illinois Cryptic Masons Nursing Scholarship

Several hospitals offer scholarship programs in exchange for a work commitment.  Brochures for various allied health programs are available upon request.

Acknowledgement and Consent

Dear Parent/Guardian and Student,

Welcome to the Basic Nurse Assistant program! I am excited to work with each of you as you embark on this journey into the nursing profession.

The Medical field is a calling, and you are off to an excellent start by learning the basis in taking this course.  Much is expected, it is an Adult course being offered in a High School classroom – as such students are to be professional and empathetic throughout their learning and training.  The instructor is considerate of special circumstances, as ‘life happens’ and has an open door policy – please feel free to discuss any needs or concerns.

As part of this program, students will engage in various activities, including attending the CNA Conference, participating in field trips, and taking part in clinical and job shadow experiences. These activities are integral to the learning process.

Please read and review the following pages carefully and sign.

By signing below, both the parent/guardian and the student acknowledge that they have read and understand the expectations outlined in the Basic Nurse Assistant syllabus and handbook.

Student print ________________________   Student signature ________________________

Parent Print ________________________    Parent signature __________________________

I give permission for my student_______________ to attend any field trips in which a bus/van will be utilized for transport.

Parent Print ________________________    Parent signature __________________________

Turn the page for further acknowledgement and consent.

I grant permission for my student _______________ to drive and/or ride with another student to a clinic at Mt. Vernon Countryside Manor. I understand that clinical hours will take place during school hours, and as a result, my student will miss their other classes on clinical days. I acknowledge that clinical hours are scheduled from 8:30 AM to 2:45 PM on the assigned days, and I am aware that any changes will be communicated with the teachers.

Parent Print ________________________    Parent signature __________________________

By signing below, I acknowledge that I understand the nature of the care my student will be providing. I consent to _______________ participating in all aspects of patient care, including personal care tasks listed in the manual skills portion of the handbook.

Parent Print ________________________    Parent signature __________________________

As part of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program, your student will be participating in hands-on practice sessions to learn essential caregiving skills. One of these skills includes the safe and proper technique of shaving.

Shaving Practice Overview: To help students gain confidence and competence, they will practice shaving on each other in a controlled and supervised environment. The activities will include:

• Boys: Shaving the face.
• Girls: Shaving a small portion of the leg.

All necessary safety measures will be in place, and students will be instructed on the use of appropriate equipment and techniques.

By signing below, you acknowledge that you understand and consent to your student participating in these shaving practice sessions. This experience is a valuable part of their CNA training and helps them develop the skills needed for patient care.

If you have any concerns or questions regarding this practice, please feel free to contact the program coordinator.

Parent Print ________________________    Parent signature __________________________