Nursing Outcomes
Outcomes are the specific, measurable, attainable, and realistic targets that serve as an effective tool for measuring progress and success. Three sets of outcomes are monitored within the division – Nursing Program Outcomes (Nursing Division Specific), Nursing Program Outcomes (NLNAC Specific), and Nursing Program Student Learning Outcomes.

Nursing Program Outcomes (Nursing Division Specific) - Nursing Program Outcomes (Nursing Division Specific) were established by the nursing faculty to align with the College’s vision (best prepared students and graduates to meet current and emergent needs) and strategic goals (access, student success, quality, and resourcefulness/efficiency).

1. Increase access for the residents of Northeast Tennessee to nursing education by increasing the number of students accepted to the nursing program by 5% over the period of three years (when fiscally capable).
2. Increase the number of students eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN), as compared to the previous year.
3. Graduate students who meet or exceed the state and national mean score on the National Council Licensure Examination – Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).
4. Achieve and maintain accreditation through National League for Nurses Accrediting Commission.
5. Promote through articulation, career mobility initiatives, and employment partnerships that stress the importance of and need for associate degree nurses to pursue baccalaureate (and graduate) level degrees in nursing, as evidenced by >10% of graduating students will continue or express interest in continuing BSN education.
6. Graduate students who are prepared to assume the roles of associate degree nurse: Provider of Care, Manager of Care, and Member of the Discipline of Nursing. Provider of Care requires using nursing process in decision making to promote optimum wellness. Manager of Care requires communication and collaboration with other members of the health care team and the client in order to manage care. Member of the Discipline of Nursing requires demonstrating a commitment to the profession as evidenced by lifelong learning, adherence to professional behaviors and ethical standards.

Nursing Program Outcomes (NLNAC specific) - Nursing Program Outcomes (NLNAC Specific) were established by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. These outcomes include performance on NCLEX-RN, program completion, program satisfaction, and job placement.

Nursing Student Learning Outcomes – Nursing Program Student Learning Outcomes have been defined by the National League for Nurses and identify the central competencies basic to the practice of Associate Degree Nursing. The Division’s curriculum framework was developed and reflects these eight core competencies. Each course in the nursing program contributes to the development of these competencies.

Nursing Program Student Learning Outcomes
By the completion of the AAS in Nursing, the graduate will be able to: 

1. Practice within the ethical, legal and regulatory frameworks of nursing and the standards of professional nursing practice.
2. Communicate effectively with the client, significant support persons and healthcare providers.
3. Collect subjective and objective data from diverse individuals across the life span.
4. Use a clinical decision making process in caring for diverse individuals across the life span with actual and potential health alterations.
5. Implement caring interventions for clients across the life span in diverse settings that incorporate principles of dignity, diversity, safety and knowledge.
6. Develop, implement, evaluate and modify an individualized teaching plan based on client needs.
7. Collaborate effectively with the client, significant support person(s) and health care team to achieve positive outcomes.
8. Coordinate nursing care for client(s) and groups of clients using management principles.