Blinn College Radiologic Technology Program Handbook

Transcription

1 Blinn College Radiologic Technology Program Handbook Student:

2 INTRODUCTION A Message to the Students Equitable Learning Opportunities Non-Discrimination Statement Reasonable Accommodations for Disabilities MISSION AND GOALS Mission of the Institution Vision of the Institution Mission of the Program Outcomes of the Program Institutional Accreditation Program Accreditation JRCERT Non-Compliance Policy ARRT Certification and State License STUDENT ATTENDANCE Institution Attendance Policy Practicum Attendance Policy Practicum Absence Procedure Time Record Policy Practicum Tardy Policy Table of Contents STUDENT CONDUCT Student Rights and Responsibilities Civility Notification Statement Institution Student Conduct Policy Scholastic Integrity and Dishonesty Policy Program Essential Qualifications Evaluation of Essential Qualifications Program Conduct Policy Student Fraternization Practice Standards and Ethics Compliance Professional Ethics/ Confidentiality Social Media Guidelines Allied Health Division Practicum Online Management System Practicum Phone Policy Internships GRIEVANCES AND COMPLAINTS Program Complaint Chain of Command Didactic Concern Clinical Concern Institution Grievance and Complaint Procedure CURRICULUM Radiology Course Requirements

3 Program Curriculum Remediation Course Substitution Transfer Credits from Institutions Estimated Cost of Program STUDENT RESOURCES Energized Laboratory and Tutoring Professional Societies Financial Aid Counseling Services Library Services Learning Resource Center Retention Services Practicum Affiliates PRACTICUM COMPETENCY/EVALUATION GUIDELINES Procedure Observation Clinical Guidelines Practicum Grade Criteria Cumulative Assessment Component Demonstration of Competency Comprehensive Practicum Objectives Practicum Competency Requirements Practicum Competency Procedures Competency Evaluation Process Affective Domain Practicum Site Evaluations PRACTICUM UNIFORM AND ACCESSORIES Practicum Uniform Practicum Accessories STUDENT HEALTH AND SAFETY Clinical Safety Student Immunization Liability Insurance Student Harassment and Title IX Drug and Alcohol Use and Abuse Program Policy on Alcohol Use in Uniform Emergency Preparedness Workplace Hazards Inclement Weather Protocol Radiation Monitoring Radiation Protection Measures Direct and Indirect Supervision Policy Image Repeat Policy Patient Transport Student Illness and Injury Guidelines Communicable Diseases Venipuncture Policy

4 Iodinated Contrast Media Policy Pregnancy Policy Unsafe Practicum Performance DISCIPLINARY POLICIES Deficiencies Citations Suspension Policy DISMISSAL/WITHDRAWAL/READMISSION Dismissal Policy Withdrawal Policy Readmission Policy DOCUMENT SAMPLES Sample of Citation Sample of Notice of Deficiency/Probation Sample Pregnancy Release Form Sample Physician s Awareness of Pregnancy Form ACKNOWLEDGMENT Program student signature required

5 INTRODUCTION A Message to the Students Welcome to the Radiologic Technology program at Blinn College. This handbook has been compiled by the Program Director and Clinical Coordinator to help familiarize you with the policies utilized by this program as well as available student services. It is important for you to read this handbook very carefully. The sections outlining the clinical objectives will not be very meaningful to you until you start participating in clinical rotations. They should, however, point out to you the scope of the activities in which you will be engaged and the skills you will acquire before completion of the program. As you begin each semester, you will need to review these objectives and Essential Qualifications to remind yourself of what will be expected of you. Pay close attention to the policy statements as you will be expected to abide by each policy while you are in the program. At the completion of reviewing this handbook, you will be asked to sign an acknowledgment stating that you understand the policies and procedures and will be responsible for maintaining their integrity. It is the responsibility of each student to be fully aware of the contents of this handbook and the penalties that exist if you should deviate from any outlined policy. It is through the spirit of cooperation and communication in which students and faculty members share a common goal of learning. In this profession, competence is developed through diligence, determination, and patience in the practicum as well as the classroom environment. The curriculum for this program, leading to the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) from this school was developed with guidance from the following agencies: The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), The Joint Review Committee of Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), and The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC). It requires students to engage in diverse, complex, and specific experiences essential to the acquisition, and practice of essential healthcare practitioner skills and functions. Unique combinations of cognitive, affective, psychomotor, physical and social abilities are required to satisfactorily perform these functions. In addition to being essential to the successful completion of the requirements of the AAS, these functions are necessary to ensure the health and safety of patients, fellow classmates, faculty, and other healthcare providers. Although each student will ultimately be prepared to sit for the national registry exam, the purpose of a well-rounded curriculum is to prepare the student for academic and professional life beyond that of a single exam. Please remember that you, the student, are the most important asset of this program. Your suggestions or program concerns are important and respected. Communication is always welcomed and appreciated. 1

6 Equitable Learning Opportunities The program strives to promote fair and impartial education experiences, and will provide equitable learning opportunities and clinical assignments. Accordingly, all students should anticipate rotations to local and non-local practicum settings, which may include hospitals, clinics, specialty/imaging centers, orthopedic centers, and other facilities, and also participate in alternating shifts repeatedly throughout the two year program. Proposals for exemption from equitable learning opportunities and clinical assignments will not be considered. Non-Discrimination Statement Blinn College, including its career and technical education programs, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, age, or any other basis prohibited by law. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs. The Radiologic Technology program further delineates Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended: No otherwise qualified handicapped individual in the United States as defined in Section 7(6), shall, solely by reason of his handicap be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal assistance. Reasonable Accommodations for Disabilities Blinn College is dedicated to providing the least restrictive learning environment for all students and to ensuring that otherwise qualified students with disabilities are given equal access through reasonable accommodations to its services and programs. Support for such services for students with documented disabilities are provided on an individual basis, upon request from the Office of Disability Services (ODS). Please review more ODS information at Students with disabilities are expected to perform all the essential functions of the program with or without reasonable accommodation. The program will attempt to accommodate their disabilityrelated needs although is not required to provide requested accommodations that would fundamentally alter the essential or technical qualifications, competencies, and functions of the program, nor that would entail an undue financial burden. 2

7 MISSIONS AND GOALS Mission of the Institution Blinn College is a comprehensive community college committed to educational excellence and to individual and community enhancement. Vision of the Institution Blinn College will be the leading educational, cultural and economic resource for our stakeholders. Mission of the Program The Radiologic Technology Program of Blinn College prepares students with knowledge and technical skills necessary to become competent entry-level radiographers. Upon completion of this program: Goal # 1: Students will demonstrate clinical (practicum) competency 1.1 Students will demonstrate the principles of positioning patients 1.2 Students will demonstrate proper exposure factor selection Outcomes of the Program Goal # 2: Students will demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills 2.1 Students will evaluate and critique images for appropriate technical, procedural and pathologic factors and employ corrective actions if necessary 2.2 Students will demonstrate how time, distance and shielding can be manipulated to keep exposure to a minimum Goal # 3: Students will demonstrate professionalism in radiology 3.1 Students will demonstrate professional conduct 3.2 Students will demonstrate professional values of ALARA on patient care Goal # 4: Students will demonstrate effective communication skills 4.1 Students will effectively communicate pre-exam instructions 4.2 Students will demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills Institutional Accreditation Blinn College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( to award associate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia, or call for questions about the accreditation of Blinn College. 3

8 Program Accreditation The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) Standards for an Accredited Educational Program in Radiography are designed to promote academic excellence, patient safety, and quality healthcare. The standards require a program to articulate its purposes; to demonstrate that it has adequate human, physical, and financial resources effectively organized for the accomplishment of its purposes; to document its effectiveness in accomplishing these purposes; and to provide assurance that it can continue to meet accreditation standards. The JRCERT accreditation process offers a means of providing assurance to the public that a program meets specific quality standards. The process helps to maintain program quality and stimulates program improvement through program assessment. In 2014, the Blinn College Radiologic Technology program received the maximum 8-year accreditation award based on the recommendations by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. The program is in compliance with JRCERT standards and policies. Standards for an Accredited Educational Program in Radiography effective January 1, 2014 are as follows: Standard One: Integrity The program demonstrates integrity in the following: representations to communities of interest and the public, pursuit of fair and equitable academic practices, and treatment of, and respect for, students, faculty, and staff. Standard Two: Resources The program has sufficient resources to support the quality and effectiveness of the educational process. Standard Three: Curriculum and Academic Practices The program s curriculum and academic practices prepare students for professional practice. Standard Four: Health and Safety The program s policies and procedures promote the health, safety, and optimal use of radiation for students, patients, and the general public. Standard Five: Assessment The program develops and implements a system of planning and evaluation of student learning and program effectiveness outcomes in support of its mission. Standard Six: Institutional/ Programmatic Data The program complies with JRCERT policies, procedures, and standards to achieve and maintain specialized accreditation. 4

9 JRCERT Non-Compliance Procedure The Blinn College Radiologic Technology Program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). This agency sets the standards for the nation s Radiologic Technology Programs in colleges and universities. This program will promote quality and safety for all patients, quality education, on-going assessment of curricula, student services, student learning outcomes, and qualify its graduates for licensure. Students have the right to submit allegations against a JRCERT-accredited program if there is reason to believe that the program has acted contrary to JRCERT accreditation standards or that conditions at the program appear to jeopardize the quality of instruction or the general welfare of its students. The individual must first attempt to resolve the complaint directly with institution, clinical or program faculty, then the program director and then the Dean of Health Science. If the individual is unable to resolve the complaint with program/institution officials or believes that the concerns have not been properly addressed, he or she may submit allegations of non-compliance to the JRCERT: Chief Executive Officer, Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2850 Chicago, IL Phone: (312) Fax: (312) mail@jrcert.org ARRT Certification and State License Following a successful background review, a graduate of an accredited program, is eligible to take the national certification examination in radiography administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Successful candidates receive the designation of Registered Technologist, Radiography R.T. (R) which is required by most facilities to perform imaging studies. It is important to note that graduate status from Blinn College does not guarantee ARRT eligibility pertaining to legal and criminal background status. In order to be eligible to sit for the certification examination of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), an applicant must "be of good moral character." The ARRT states that for its purposes, conviction of a misdemeanor or felony may indicate a lack of good moral character. Applicants who could be affected by this policy should contact the ARRT prior to admission for further information and forms for review of individual cases. ARRT can be contacted at American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, Department of Regulatory Services, 1255 Northland Drive, St. Paul, MN 55120, (612) It is the student s responsibility to contact the ARRT and request a pre-examination eligibility review form or complete the form online at Application.pdf as early as possible if there is a concern. All graduates who pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification examinations are qualified for General Medical Radiologic Technologist (MRT) certification in Texas. State licensing and ARRT certification is mandatory for employment and have two different processes to obtain. For more information on Texas State licensing, go to the Texas Medical Board licensing website at: 5

10 STUDENT ATTENDANCE Institution Attendance Policy The College District believes that class attendance is essential for student success; therefore, students are required to promptly and regularly attend all their classes. Each class meeting builds the foundation for subsequent class meetings. Without full participation and regular class attendance, students shall find themselves at a severe disadvantage for achieving success in college. Class participation shall constitute at least ten percent of the final course grade. If a student has one week s worth of unexcused absences during the semester, he or she will be sent an e- mail by the College District requiring the student to contact his or her instructor and schedule a conference immediately to discuss his or her attendance issues. Should the student accumulate two weeks worth of unexcused absences, he or she will be administratively withdrawn from class although it is the student s responsibility to officially drop a class they are no longer attending. There are four forms of excused absences recognized by the institution: 1. Observance of religious holy days - Sec (b), Texas Education Code. An institution of higher education shall excuse a student attending classes and/or required activities, including examinations, for the observance of a religious holy day. A student whose absence is excused under this section may not be penalized for that absence and shall be allowed to take an examination or complete an assignment. The student should notify his or her instructor(s) not later than the 15th day of the semester concerning the specific date(s) that the student will be absent for any religious holy day(s). 2. Representing the College District at an official institutional function. If a student is asked by the College District to be an official representative of the College District at any function approved by the institution, the student will be excused from any classes missed and must be allowed to complete all work without penalty for that absence(s) in a timely manner as directed by the faculty member. 3. A high school student representing the independent school district at an official institutional function. If a high school student is asked by the independent school district to be an official representative of the school district at any function approved by the institution, the student shall be excused from any class missed and must be allowed to complete all work without penalty for the absence(s) in a timely manner as directed by the faculty member. 4. Military Service Sec (d), Texas Education Code; 19 Administrative Code 4.9. If a student can prove he or she is serving on active duty to which he or she is called with the Armed Forces of the United States, the student shall be excused from attending classes and allowed to complete an assignment or take an examination from which the student is excused within a reasonable time after the absence. Please review Attendance Policy. Other absences may be excused at the discretion of the faculty member. The program follows the discretion of this policy and will take each absence notification into consideration for excusal in regards for missed classroom and/or clinical time. 6

11 Practicum Attendance Policy Punctuality, consistent attendance, and diligence in participating 100% with patient care and examinations are key factors to the successful completion of this program as well as securing employment. The practicum components comprise a considerable portion of the learning activities; therefore, any absences should be taken only in the event of illness or family emergency. The JRCERT defines the operational hours of traditional programs as Monday - Friday, 5:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Programs may permit students to make up clinical time during term or scheduled breaks; however, they may not be assigned to clinical settings on holidays that are observed by the sponsoring institution. For the safety of students and patients, not more than ten (10) clinical hours shall be scheduled in any one day. Scheduled didactic and clinical hours combined cannot exceed forty (40) hours per week. Hours exceeding these limitations must be voluntary on the student s part. All missed clinical hours exceeding the semester specific amount of maximum allotted absence time, with the exception of official Blinn absences, will be made up outside of the scheduled rotations by one day prior to final grade submission of the current semester or will be recommended for program dismissal. Make up time is considered for extenuating circumstances, voluntary, and not guaranteed. Make up time is scheduled with the approval of the Clinical Coordinator and Site Clinical Instructor. Students must submit in written form the agreed upon make-up schedule signed by the Site Clinical Instructor to the Clinical Coordinator for the final approval of make-up time. Maximum Allotted Absence Time Semester 1 RADR hours Semester 2 RADR hours Semester 3 RADR hours Semester 4 RADR hours Semester 5 RADR hours In the event that a practicum site closes during the shift for any reason (disaster, unannounced closure, etc.), the student should report to the appropriate clinical faculty on campus from 8am-4pm, with one hour lunch break. The practicum absence and tardy policy are in effect for these hours. The student s scheduled practicum time will be completed with instruction conducive to program learning. Practicum Absence Procedure Minimum absence time is a 1 hour block. All absences must be reported to the Clinical Coordinator, Faculty Clinical Instructor, and Site Clinical Instructor prior to the beginning of the shift by calling at least 15 minutes prior to normal reporting time. When arriving to or leaving the practicum site, altered from the scheduled time, the student must have the approval of the Site Clinical Instructor and properly document the times. If the Site Clinical Instructor deems it necessary for the student to leave the clinical site because of a communicable illness, the student will document exit time before leaving. 7

12 Time Record Policy Students are responsible for accurately recording practicum time through the designated On-line RadSchool Program during each semester practicum time. Clock-in/out should only be performed by the individual student, and only performed on the designated computer provided by the clinical site Clock-in/out is required for lunch breaks and any other time during the rotational day a student leaves the practicum site. If a student forgets to clock in/out at the designated or assigned times during clinical, then the student must fill out the appropriate time edit slip, have Site Clinical Instructor sign, and turn into Clinical Coordinator for time editing in the On-line system. Students are allowed one time edit occurrence with no penalty to practicum grade. Any other time edit corrections after the first occurrence will result in 1 point deduction from final Practicum grade per occurrence. If a technical issue occurs with the designated site computer or On-line program, then the student must immediately inform the Site Clinical Instructor, fill out a time edit slip, have the Site CI sign, and student will then turn in to Clinical Coordinator with the designated reason of time edit being technical problems. The Clinical Coordinator will verify with Site CI, and no penalty points will deducted from student. Time Edit Slips must be turned into Clinical Coordinator by student within 24 hours of time mishap occurrence. Students have designated time schedules for each semester of Practicum. If a student needs to change a time schedule with another student at the same clinical site, the students must get the approval from the other student, Site Clinical Instructor, and inform in writing to the Clinical Coordinator for final approval. This must be done at least 24 hours before the time switch is requested or needed. If a student s assigned time schedule is changed without following the policy above, then a 5 points deduction from final Practicum grade will occur for all students involved in schedule change. This program documentation and record keeping is important for the structure of the program and to aid in legal accountability for the student, college, and hospital. There are circumstances when it is essential to know specifically when a student was at the clinical site. Since these are important legal documents, accuracy is essential and honesty is assumed. Any violation of this policy will be viewed as falsification of records and will result in the minimum of a citation with a 5 points final practicum grade deduction and maximum of recommendation for program dismissal. 8

13 Blinn College Radiologic Technology Practicum Time Edit Slip Student Name: Clinical Site: Semester: Date Example 3/20/17 Time- In Lunch Time In/Out Time- Out 8:00am 12:00pm/12:30pm 4:30pm Reason for Edit Forgot Or Technical issue CI/Faculty Notes Internet went down / / *Time Edit slip must be turned into Clinical Coordinator for approval and Online system corrections within 24 hours of time mishap.* Site Clinical Instructor Signature Date Clinical Coordinator Signature Date 9

14 Practicum Tardy Policy Tardy is defined as any time after the designated start time of a student s practicum shift, and must be documented accurately on the On-line RadSchool program. It is the student s responsibility to accurately and honestly document arrival/departing times.. If a student anticipates being more than 15 minutes late, the student should notify the Site Clinical Instructor, Faculty Clinical Instructor, and Clinical Coordinator. Late arrivals that are 15 minutes or more will be deducted from incurred absence time in 1 hour blocks. The student must make prior arrangements with the both the Site Clinical Instructor and the Clinical Coordinator to avoid receiving a tardy occurrence with a pre-arranged commitment. The first occurrence of a tardy will result in a citation by the Clinical Coordinator without a final grade point deduction; however, subsequent occurrences will result in citations with 1 point deduction for each repeated offense from the total practicum grade 10

15 STUDENT CONDUCT Student Rights and Responsibilities Blinn College Official Catalog, Admissions & Records / Student Services / Financial Aid By enrolling in classes at Blinn College, I understand that I have rights and responsibilities as follows: Students Rights 1. A student shall have the right to participate in a free exchange of ideas, and there shall be no College rule or administrative rule that in any way abridges the rights of freedom of speech, expression, petition and peaceful assembly as set forth in the U.S. Constitution. (FLA Legal; FLAA Local; FLA Local) (Administrative Procedure for Expressive Activities on Campus) 2. A student shall have the right to participate in all areas and activities of the College, free from any form of discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, disability, age, or veteran status in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. (FA Legal; FB Local; FFD Local; FK Legal) 3. A student shall have the right to know the specifics of how they will be evaluated in class, and to file a grade appeal if they feel they have not been graded properly. (FLDB Local) 4. A student has the right to personal privacy except as otherwise provided by law, and this will be observed by students and College authorities alike. (FJ Local) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford eligible students certain rights with respect to their education records. 5. A student subject to disciplinary action arising from violations of Student Rules shall be assured a fundamentally fair process as set forth in College policy. (FMA Local) 6. A student shall have the right to access the College s Consumer Information as required in various Federal regulations and displayed on the College s web site. 7. A student shall have the right to file a written complaint if they are unable to resolve a concern through established procedures. (FLD Local.) Students Responsibilities 1. A student has the responsibility to be fully acquainted with the published College student rules (found in the College Catalog) and to comply with them, as well as all federal, state, and local laws. 2. A student has the responsibility to be fully acquainted with the College s billing policies as well as meet all financial obligations to the College. More details 3. A student has the responsibility to maintain communication with the College including reading their Blinn s and keeping the College updated on addresses and phone numbers. 4. A student has the responsibility to seek out input concerning career, choice of majors and selection of courses from various academic advising offices on campus, catalogs/advisors at transfer institutions, and other resources. All decisions related to academic coursework are ultimately the advisee s responsibility. 5. A student has the responsibility to show respect and honesty in disagreements with faculty, staff, administration and others and to use the established channels to resolve complaints and concerns. (FLD Local) 6. A student has the responsibility to respect the rights and property of others, including other students, the faculty and College officials. (FLB Local) 7. A student has the responsibility to maintain a level of behavior which is consistent in supporting the learning environment of the institution and to recognize the College s obligation to provide an environment for learning. (FLB Local) 11

16 Civility Notification Statement Members of the Blinn College community, which includes faculty, staff and students, are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all aspects of campus life. Blinn College holds all members accountable for their actions and words. Therefore, all members should commit themselves to behave in a manner that recognizes personal respect and demonstrates concern for the personal dignity, rights, and freedoms of every member of the College community, including respect for College property and the physical and intellectual property of others. The following statement applies to classroom as well as clinical behavior. If a student is asked to leave the classroom because of uncivil behavior, the student may not return to that class until they arrange a conference with the faculty member; it is the student s responsibility to arrange for this conference. The Incivility Protocol is provided for more information. Institution Student Conduct Policy Each student shall be charged with notice and knowledge of, and shall be required to comply with, the contents and provisions of the College District s rules and regulations concerning student conduct. A student shall be subject to discipline, including suspension, in accordance with FM and FMA if the student violates this policy by engaging in prohibited conduct. A complete explanation of Conduct Policy, including prohibited conduct, is found in the in the online catalog at Blinn College Official Catalog, Admissions & Records / Student Services / Financial Aid Scholastic Integrity and Dishonesty Policy It is the responsibility of faculty to maintain scholastic integrity at the College District by refusing to tolerate any form of scholastic dishonesty. Adequate control of test materials, strict supervision during testing, and other preventive measures should be utilized, as necessary, to prevent cheating or plagiarism. If there is compelling evidence that a student is involved in cheating or plagiarism, the faculty member should assume responsibility and address the infraction. Likewise, any student accused of scholastic dishonesty is entitled to due process to resolve the allegation. Blinn College Official Catalog, Admissions & Records / Student Services / Financial Aid 12 Program Conduct Policy Radiologic Technology students representing Blinn College will be expected to conduct them in such a manner that reflects favorably upon themselves and the program. Every effort is taken to provide for all students a college environment that is conducive to academic endeavors, social growth, and individual self-discipline. The college assumes that students eligible to perform on the college level are familiar with the ordinary rules governing proper conduct and that they will observe these rules as a matter of training and habit. If a student is not in compliance with the program s Essential Qualification standards, a citation will be warranted with the possibility of further corrective action such as remediation, probation and/or dismissal.

17 During clinical hours, students are expected to perform all duties of a student radiographer during an assigned shift including exams, cleaning and stocking rooms, checking equipment, and required clerical duties. The students should aid on all exams they are available to assist, and not exclude exams they either have finished competencies or have not yet learned. If all radiography duties are completed, the student may review images, study, or practice positioning skills using any books or notes pertaining to the radiologic technology program at the site s discretion. The use of personal reading material, magazines, and newspapers is not allowed and a student may not use the internet or access their cell phone for any reason. It is the student s responsibility to receive Clinical Instructor approval to bring study material into the site. In addition, the student is responsible for periodically checking with the technologists or clinical instructors to ensure no radiography duties are pending or the student is needed in the work area. 13

18 Program Essential Qualifications Current students will be given the Essential Qualifications/ Competencies/ Functions of Candidates for Undergraduate and Radiologic Program Admission, Continuance, and Graduation with review and explanation as well as acknowledgement of receipt and understanding. Upon entering the program, students will receive a detailed orientation session reviewing the Essential Qualifications/ Competencies/ Functions of Candidates for Undergraduate and Radiologic Program Admission, Continuance, and Graduation with an opportunity to ask questions or seek clarification followed by a written acknowledgement of receipt and understanding. Blinn College s Associate of Applied Science (AAS), Radiologic Technology, signifies that the holder of that degree has been educated to competently practice the profession in all healthcare settings and to apply for the ARRT certification examination. The education of a healthcare professional requires assimilation of knowledge, acquisition of skills and development of judgment through patient care experiences in preparation for a) independent, and b) semi-autonomous and/or c) making appropriate decisions required in practice. The practice of a radiologic technology professional emphasizes collaboration among allied health care professionals and the patient. The curriculum leading to the AAS from this school was developed with guidance from the following agencies: The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), The Joint Review Committee of Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), and The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC). It requires students to engage in diverse, complex, and specific experiences essential to the acquisition, and practice of essential healthcare practitioner skills and functions. Unique combinations of cognitive, affective, psychomotor, physical and social abilities are required to satisfactorily perform these functions. In addition to being essential to the successful completion of the requirements of the AAS, these functions are necessary to ensure the health and safety of patients, fellow candidates, faculty, and other healthcare providers. The essential abilities necessary to acquire or demonstrate competence in a discipline as complex as healthcare and needed for successful admission and continuance by candidates for the AAS Radiologic Technology Program at Blinn College, in addition to the standards of behavior and conduct set forth in the Blinn College Student Conduct Policy, include but are not limited to the following abilities: Motor Skills Students should have sufficient motor function so they are able to execute movements required to provide general care and treatment to patients in all health care settings. [For example: For the safety and protection of the patients, the candidate must be able to perform basic life support, including CPR, and function in an emergency situation. The candidate must have the ability, within reasonable limits, to safely assist a patient in moving, for example from a chair to a bed, examination table, or from a wheelchair to another location. Sensory/Observation A student must be able to acquire the information presented through demonstrations and experiences in the basic and profession s sciences. He or she must be able to observe a patient accurately, at a distance and close at hand, and observe and appreciate non-verbal communications 14

19 when performing an assessment and radiographic examination, or administering of contrast medication. The candidate must be capable of perceiving and evaluating images for positioning and radiation exposure as well as patient conditions pertinent to procedural variances. Such information is derived from viewing the patient, display monitors, and auditory information from the patient and other members of the health care team. Communication The student must communicate effectively and sensitively with other students, faculty, staff, patients, family, and other professionals. He or she must express his or her ideas and feelings clearly and demonstrate a willingness and ability to give and receive feedback. A student must be able to: convey or exchange information at a level allowing development of a patient history, identify factors that contraindicate the procedure, relate accurate explanations and instructions, answer patient questions, and verify patient understanding and consent to the procedure. The student must be able to communicate effectively in oral and written forms. The student must be able to communicate information on the patient s status with accuracy and in a timely manner to members of the health care team. The appropriate communication may also rely on the student s ability to make a correct judgment in seeking supervision and consultation in a timely manner. Cognitive A student must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, integrate, and synthesize in the context of undergraduate professional study. The ability to quickly read and comprehend extensive written material is essential as well as the ability to evaluate, and apply information and engage in critical thinking in the classroom and clinical setting. Behavioral/Emotional A student must possess the emotional health required for the full utilization of his or her intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to obtaining quality medical images and care of the patients and families. In addition, s/he must maintain mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients, students, faculty, staff, and other professionals under all circumstances including highly stressful situations. The student must have the emotional stability to function effectively under stress and adapt to an environment that may change rapidly without warning and/or in unpredictable ways. The student must be able to experience empathy for the situations and circumstances of others and effectively communicate that empathy. The student must know that his or her values, attitudes, beliefs, emotions, and experiences affect perceptions and relationships with others. A willingness to examine and change behavior when it interferes with productive individual or team relationships is essential as well as skills and experience necessary for effective and harmonious relationships in diverse academic and clinical environments. Professional Conduct Students must possess the ability to reason morally and practice heath care in an ethical manner. The willingness to learn and abide by professional standards of practice are essential. Qualities that exemplify professional conduct include: compassion, empathy, altruism, integrity, honesty, responsibility, timeliness, tolerance, and adherence to professional personal hygiene and dress. Students must be able to engage in patient care delivery in all settings and deliver patient care to all patient populations including but not limited to children, adolescents, adults, developmentally disabled persons, medically compromised patients, and vulnerable adults. 15

20 Evaluation of Essential Qualifications The student will receive and review the Essential Qualifications at the beginning of the academic school year. Because of the close working relationship with the students, the Program Director, Clinical Coordinator, Clinical Instructor, and Didactic Faculty will collectively be responsible for monitoring and documenting whether a student is meeting the Essential Qualifications. This shall be done by the following actions: Direct interaction with and supervision of the students in the classroom and/or clinical setting, including simulations. Formal documentation of any concerns relating to behavior in the classroom and/or clinical setting. Ensuring that each student completes a Self-Evaluation of the Essential Qualifications for both classroom and clinical settings periodically. Practice Standards and Ethics Compliance The ASRT/ARRT Code of Ethics and Practice Standards serves as a guide to promote professional conduct as it relates to patients, health care consumers, employers and colleagues. The Code of Ethics is intended to assist Registered Technologists and applicants maintain a high level of ethical conduct, and provide protection, safety and comfort to patients. As a student radiographer, it is your responsibility to aspire to excellence through this Code of Ethics. All students will be held accountable for maintaining compliance with ASRT Standards of Ethics. Any violation of these standards will be grounds for recommendation for dismissal from the program. Please review ARRT Standards and Code of Ethics Professional Ethics/Confidentiality Students are expected to observe the rules of confidentiality of patient information per HIPPA. That information which should be kept confidential includes, but is not limited to, examination results, information in the patient's hospital record (chart), personal history, behavior in the radiology department, and any information obtained from the patient during the exam. The information should be passed on only to those professionals directly involved in the patient's care. Patient information is not to be discussed with co-workers not involved in patient care, other students, student's family and friends, or the patient's family. Students should not extend personal favors to family and friends based on their access to patients' radiology results and hospital records. The student should take into consideration the site of conversation with or about patients. Discussions with co-workers need to take place in areas where confidentiality can be maintained. When patients need to be asked questions about preparation, previous exams, or pregnancy, the appropriate place is within the examination room, not in the hallway. Appropriate conversation while walking patients to the room does not include personal information about the patient. 16

21 Additionally, the student is expected to conduct him/herself with integrity consistent with the profession. At minimum, the student is expected to be truthful with respect to his/her behavior in the clinical setting. This is a critical aspect of being trusted with the care of patients. The student must take responsibility for his/her actions and be forthright in addressing those situations requiring the attention of the student s supervisor. Failure to comply with the above rules will result in immediate disciplinary action including the possibility of recommendation of dismissal from the program to be decided by the program director, faculty, and/or clinical instructor. Social Media Guidelines Allied Health Division Social media websites allow people to engage in both professional and personal communications. These guidelines provide standards of conduct when people associated with Blinn College (students, faculty, and staff) go online to publish, discuss, blog, share files, post user-generated video and/or audio, enter into virtual worlds, log onto social networks or any other form of usergenerated media. Protect confidential information. Do not disclose or use confidential information regarding clinical experiences, clinical facilities, clinical staff, or clients. Respect confidentiality and abide by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA regulations), and/or other professional programs ethics and standards of practice. Removing an individual s name does not constitute proper de-identification of protected health information. Inclusion of data such as age, gender, race, diagnosis, date of evaluation, type of treatment, circumstances of injury, and/or the use of highly specific medical photographs may still allow the reader to recognize the person s identity Any posting that could be construed as a violation of HIPPA, unprofessional, unethical, or under the incivility policy of the College may be grounds for dismissal from the respective program. Student Fraternization The program holds its students to the highest ethical and professional standards. A student fraternization policy has been recommended in order to promote efficient and fair operation of the program, to avoid conflicts of interest, misunderstandings and complaints of favoritism, supervision problems, morale problems, questions regarding academic achievement, sexual harassment and overall to safeguard you in the program. Fraternization is defined as a consensual non-professional, consensual romantic or consensual sexual relationship between individuals who occupy different levels of authority within the program including the affiliated clinical sites. All students are prohibited from fraternization with any individual directly related to the program (faculty, Clinical Instructor, staff technologist ), including but not limited to: meeting anytime outside of program or clinical schedules, dating, pursuing a date, having or pursuing a romantic or sexual relationship. Violations of this policy are case dependent and may be subject to discipline, up to or including dismissal from the program. All students, employees, and clinical affiliates have an obligation to report known fraternization. Reports of fraternization should be reported to the program director and/or the clinical coordinator. Please review Title IX Policy and Procedure Blinn College 17

22 Practicum Online Management System Students are responsible for their own online practicum management and at no time should they release their secured username/password to another individual. Competency evaluations should only be completed by the assigned student and verified by the technologist supervising the examination. Any violation of this policy will be viewed as falsification of records and will result in the minimum of a citation with a 5 point final practicum grade deduction and maximum of recommendation for program dismissal. Practicum Phone Policy No personal calls are allowed except in emergency situations. Cellular phones may not be carried by the student at any time during the rotational shift but will remain in the OFF mode in the student storage area. Violation of this policy will result in a citation with four hours deducted from the absence time for the first occurrence. Each subsequent occurrence will result in 5 points deducted from final practicum grade for the remaining time of the program. Internships Students who are paid employees at any practicum site or other facility will clock out at the end of their practicum scheduled rotation time and change from their program uniform, radiation badge, and student markers before signing in to work as an employee. The first violation of this policy will result in a written citation. Another violation after the first will result in a written citation and 5 points penalty reduction of Practicum grade. Any violation of policy past the second occurrence will result in program dismissal. 18

23 GRIEVANCES AND COMPLAINTS Program Complaint Chain of Command It is the policy of the program to work with students in finding fair and equitable solutions to problems apart from those invoking the grievance procedures. Please allow the program to assist with any problem or concern regarding your role as a student. 19 Didactic Concern Step 1: It is recommended, but not required, that the student should first take their problem or question to their course faculty instructor(s) if feasible. Usually the instructor will have direct knowledge about the subject and is best qualified to resolve the situation. Step 2: If the student chooses not to take their problem to the instructor involved and/or the instructor is unable to find a solution or answer within a reasonable amount of time, the student may then bring the matter to the attention of the program director. The student should feel free to discuss the matter fully. Step 3: Should a satisfactory and impartial solution not result from step 2, the student may pursue the matter through the Dean of Health Science. Clinical Concern Step 1: The student should first take their problem or question to their Clinical Instructor. Usually the Instructor will have direct knowledge about the subject and is best qualified to resolve the situation. Step 2: If the student and Clinical Instructor are unable to find a solution or answer within a reasonable amount of time, the student may then bring the matter to the attention of the Clinical coordinator. The student should feel free to discuss the matter fully. Step 3: Should a satisfactory and impartial solution not result from step 2, the student may pursue the matter through the program director. In the event that the hospital requests that a student be removed from the facility permanently, two subsequent courses of action may take place: 1. If the situation is based on a problem specific to the facility and would not prevent the student from completing the program, the program may assign a student to another facility. 2. If the situation is based on unacceptable, intolerable, or illegal actions by a student which violate the clinical policies set forth in this handbook, or which violate any local, state, or federal laws, the student will be removed from the clinical site and released from the program. Under these circumstances, a student will not be allowed to reenter the program at any time in the future.