Nursing Laboratory

The labs are staffed at all times by either lab staff or module instructors. The instructors are there to assist you on a one-to-one basis, as needed, as you work through the programs, skills and procedures.

Dorothy Kopec, Nursing Lab Support Specialist
A.A.S., Harper College
B.S.N., Olivet Nazarene University
847.925.6072
dkopec@harpercollege.edu

In order to allow active learning to take place, certain policies regarding the lab have been established and must be observed by all:

1. Lab Hours: Hours the lab will be open for use will be posted in the lab and explained to you in your modules. Lab hours are continually evaluated; if any changes are necessary, you will be notified.
2. Sign In: The computer to sign into the lab is located on the desk when you enter X228D. Please swipe your Harper ID badge to sign in and out of the lab. If you do not swipe out, your time will not be recorded.
3. Accidents: If you are accidentally stuck with a non-sterile needle or your skin comes in contact with contaminated material, you must go immediately to the NCH Outpatient Care Center located in Building M for evaluation.
4. Allergies: If a latex or iodine allergy exists or is suspected, please notify your clinical instructor and the lab personnel.
5. Earphones: When using computers in Building X, Room X254 and Building Y, Room Y203, earphones must be used for listening. Purchase the appropriate set in the bookstore-the cord is slightly longer than traditional headsets.
6. Inefficient Equipment: All damaged and/or malfunctioning equipment or manikin must be reported immediately to the lab staff or faculty.
7. Food and Drink: Eating and drinking are not permitted in the labs.
8. Visitors: Due to safety concerns, children and visitors are not permitted in the labs.
9. Lab Etiquette: After practicing skills, straighten unit/area so it is ready for the next student:
   • Chairs should be replaced under the tables when leaving the area.
   • Pick up any waste materials observed on the floor and place in trash containers.
   • Wipe up all spills on floors.
   • Keep beds in appropriate position with linens straightened before leaving and side rails in upright position.
   • Replace manikins neatly in the bed.
   • Turn off all over bed lights, suction and oxygen.
   • Evaluation: After you have completed a program and practiced the skills/procedures involved, the faculty will check you in skill performance. If you are inadequately prepared, the faculty will advise you of further independent study/practice. Lab staff members are available for assistance as needed during independent study/practice. Skill performance will be evaluated by faculty.
   • Announcements: Bulletin board space is provided for general announcements and specific module announcements. It is the student's responsibility to read the bulletin boards whenever they come into the lab. Keeping up to date with items posted is your responsibility. Announcements will also be posted on the nursing lab blackboard site.

1. Participate in an orientation to the lab.
2. No eating or drinking in the lab. When taking a break outside the lab, use a waste container provided.
3. No smoking is allowed in the lab or the Health Careers Building.
4. Chairs should be replaced under the tables when leaving the area.
5. Pick up any waste materials observed on the floor and place in trash containers.
6. Return media to proper storage area or to lab personnel after viewing.
7. All simulated practice needles are to be covered with needle sheath. Needles and syringes are not to be discarded in trash containers.
8. If you are accidentally stuck with a non-sterile needle or your skin comes in contact with contaminated material, you must go immediately to the NCH Outpatient Care Center located in Building M for treatment.
9. Return equipment to designated location; example - needle and syringes to syringe box in designated areas. Syringe boxes, syringes and needles must remain in Nursing Lab.
10. Wipe up all spills on floors.
11. Keep beds in appropriate position with linens straightened before leaving.
12. Replace manikins neatly in the bed.
13. Report any incidents or malfunctions to the lab staff.
14. Identify all textbooks and personal items with your name.
15. Special rules will be shared regarding Simulated Learning Resources, their use and their security.
16. If a latex or betadine allergy exists or is suspected, please notify your clinical instructor and the lab personnel.