PERSONAL SUPPORT WORKER PROGRAM

Transcription

1 PERSONAL SUPPORT WORKER PROGRAM Riverside Glen Campus School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services Conestoga College PROGRAM STANDARDS & PROCEDURES HANDBOOK 2014/2015

2 WELCOME To the School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services Your Bridge to Practice What Can This Mean For You? The opportunity to begin, today, to become the professional you aspire to be! The opportunity to learn in real-life settings and with real-life scenarios, rehearsing for the day when you will be in these real-life situations! A unique inter-professional opportunity, given the number of different disciplines in the School. You will learn with, about and from your future colleagues. An opportunity to take advantage of the unique learning opportunity of the LIVING CLASSROOM at the Village of Riverside Glen. Your goal of being viewed by employers as a preferred graduate is up to you; your professors, technologists, administrative staff and College services look forward to supporting you as you journey from Day 1 to your Graduation!

3 TOGETHER FOR LEARNING: 5 TOP EXPECTATIONS OF YOU 1. USE MY CONESTOGA TO CONNECT TO Your Conestoga (e.g. John Smith, Student Number , jsmith4567@conestogac.on.ca) This is the official communication vehicle regarding your academic requirements. CHECK IT REGULARLY AND RESPOND AS REQUESTED. econestoga: (Desire to Learn) This is your resource for all course-based program information and course-based communication with your faculty. MAKE econestoga YOUR PARTNER IN LEARNING; THIS IS YOUR GUIDE TO ALL COURSE ACTIVITY. Student Portal: Find your grade information, college tuition invoices, class schedules and absence reporting. Practicum Health Requirements: (Go to Services and find Practicum Services Link ) KEEP TRACK OF YOUR REQUIREMENTS; KNOW THAT THEY ARE COMPLETE TO ALLOW YOU TO GO ON YOUR PRACTICUM. 2. KNOW YOUR ACADEMIC SCHEDULE AND PLAN WITH IT WITH YOUR FAMILY TOO! Course Schedule: Your schedule has been planned with many people and considerations in mind. Classes can be scheduled from 8am to 6pm (note, times for practicums follow work place schedules). CHANGES MAY BE CONSIDERED BUT ONLY FOR EXTENUATING REASONS (Please discuss with your Program Coordinator). The Academic Year has critical dates: please plan around these dates to ensure you are here when you need to be--including the potential need to be present for the 2 weeks after the semester ends if you might need to complete supplemental work. Fall 2014 Dates Winter 2015 Dates Fall Orientation Week August Winter Orientation January 5 Fall Semester Classes Start September 2 Winter Semester Classes January 6 Start Study Week February Last Week of Semester December 8-12 Last Week of Semester April 20-April 25 Intersession (no classes) Dec. 15-Jan 2/15 Intersession (no classes) April 27 May 8

4 TOGETHER FOR LEARNING: 5 TOP EXPECTATIONS OF YOU 3. BE THE PROFESSIONAL YOU WISH TO BECOME, FROM DAY ONE! CIVILITY, RESPECT, AND PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIORS WILL BE KEY TO THE QUALITY OF YOUR LEARNING EXPERIENCE AND A FUTURE EMPLOYER'S FIRST AND LASTING IMPRESSION! Professional Dress & Conduct: See section 3 of the Handbook for professionalism expectations for your program. The College s Student Guide sets out Student Code of Conduct for our community at Conestoga. Pre-practicum Health Requirements and mandatory flu shot: Complete as required; without these, you will not be able to progress to your practicum and your program completion will be in jeopardy (per your information in the Student Portal) Social Media: Use responsibly Don t jeopardize your future on ill-advised communication with the e-tools that we use so freely (see section 3 of the Handbook) 4. ATTEND TO ENHANCE SUCCESS Please Review Attendance Expectations in See Section 4 of the Handbook: Attendance for class, labs and practicum supports student learning and your experience as a future professional! Absence from Evaluations: Must be reported in the Student Portal before your absence to be eligible for a repeated evaluation. Request for Accommodation for Religious Holidays: Must be requested to your Program Coordinator in the first 3 weeks of each semester 5. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR ACADEMIC STATUS Student Records if you have questions about your student record, academic status and/ or program withdrawals, go to the Registrar s Office and/or speak to your Program Coordinator. Fee Payments: Payment is required to attend classes. Check your student portal for invoices; pay as directed. Credit Transfer: Conestoga supports the transferability of academic credits between programs and educational institutions through recognized transfer pathways, articulation agreements and course-to-course equivalences. This may allow you to enter a program at an advanced level or provide for individual course credit transfer. Go to for more information. Student Forms: To access forms go to Academic Policies & Procedures: May be found at Student Affairs Polices & Procedures: May be found at

5 TOGETHER FOR LEARNING: 5 TOP RESOURCES FOR YOU 1. YOUR TEACHING TEAM Contact Information: Is posted in econestoga and in your Handbook (Section 2 in Handbook) Appointments: Making appointments (in person, by phone, ) helps to ensure your desired resource is available. Inquiries: will be answered within 2 business days. Urgent Need for Help: Program Assistants are available to help you reach one of the Teaching Team (contact information in Section 2 of the Handbook) 2. COUNSELLING AND SERVICES FOR PERSONAL NEEDS College Counselling: Professionally-trained counsellors can help you achieve your educational goals for such common support as stress management, anxiety, depression, transition issues, family issues, etc. Counselling is free, voluntary and confidential. Arrange to see a Counsellor quickly if academic or personal problems stand in the way of your College success. To make an appointment, visit or call Guelph Campus Welcome Centre x6156 Check their WEB SITE: Good2Talk: Confidential 24 hour phone line for stresses big and small Security: , 3357 Student Financial Aid: CSI Food Bank: Health Services: Your Family Doctor on campus! Check out the services that they offer on their web site at or call Ext Services available Monday to Friday at Doon, 8:30 to 4:30. Some same day appointments may be available by walk-in. A full-time Health nurse is on site. 3. ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES Students with Documented Disabilities are encouraged to book an appointment with Accessibility Services to access accommodations EARLY in your program. Disability-related documentation will be required to book an appointment. Go to for more information. Adaptive Technology Aids and Special Facilities: Adaptive Aids are arranged through Accessibility Services; handicapped accessible washrooms are located through- out the campus. Go to for more information on Adaptive technology Aids.

6 TOGETHER FOR LEARNING: 5 TOP RESOURCES FOR YOU 4. STUDENT STUDY SPACES AND GENERAL SUPPORTS General Access Computers and printers are located in two areas adjacent to the classrooms: Basement in the student area with photocopiers Open Access Lab This is available on come and go basis for health care programs practicing key skills. It is open from 8:30am to 4:00 pm every day. Book with Open Access Nurse Technologist. Lockers: Available with your tuition; important to store your extra clothes and books, etc. so that you can be at your professional best in the lab. Lockers will be assigned in the first week of class. Information Technology: New ITS HELP DESK - Go to for more information or call x SERVICES FOR STUDENTS Library Resource Centre : Go to for more information International Office: Check out Services for You: Learning Commons: (Access through MyConestoga) Your ONE-STOP resource for academic services and resources, such as Math, Writing Skills, Peer Tutors and resources for APA. Check out their web site: Student Life: Get involved and shape your experience. Connect to MyConestoga for your Co-Curricular Record Student Financial Aid: Your ONE-STOP Resource to apply for student awards and bursaries apply early to increase your chances! Go to for more information Bookstore: Your location to buy books (check out their options including used books), clothing for your program, general supplies. Find it in Guelph Campus or visit Doon in A wing Door 1 Co-op and Career Advising: Your resource for Co-op Placements (if you are in a degree); your source of help to look for summer jobs or future careers and gain help preparing your resume. Check out their web site

7 Welcome to the PSW and PN Living Classroom at Riverside Glen! In 2006, Conestoga College and Schlegel Villages developed a Living Classroom program in Long-Term Care (LTC). This innovative and collaborative program consists of classroom and clinical teaching for Practical Nursing (PN) and Personal Support Worker (PSW) students, all in a real LTC and Retirement Home environment. Learning from the Living Classroom is evaluated by the Schlegel-University of Waterloo Research Institute of Aging, with the intention to enhance further learning and research. By participating in the PSW and PN Living Classroom program: You have all the benefits of Conestoga College s PSW and PN curriculum and credentials, and You have the additional benefits of learning at the Schlegel Village of Riverside Glen. The Living Classroom program embraces intentional interactions among you (students), the LTC and retirement living team, residents, and families. The program provides you with formal and active learning experiences in LTC and retirement living environments. The Living Classroom program includes: 1. a specifically designed collaborative gerontological curriculum; 2. intentional exposure to, and mastery of, knowledge, skills, and behaviours; and, 3. The fostering of a formal and informal learning in a mentoring environment. In addition to teaching and providing support for you as a student, Conestoga College faculty in the Living Classroom work together with the healthcare team to integrate your learning with the care activities in the facility, and create opportunities for your involvement. You are encouraged to take advantage of being in the Village by spending time with the residents and their families. The LTC and retirement Village also facilitates volunteering opportunities for you to run recreational activities or assist residents and families. Furthermore, teams receive special training on how to mentor and support you while you are in the Village. The outcomes of the integration between learning and caregiving are mutually beneficial: as a student, you gain more comfort and confidence in working with residents and families; the team actively participates in your training; residents and families are provided with social engagement; You feel respected and valued as a member of the team; Team and residents also feel valued as they are actively assisting in the learning and training process by sharing their own skills and experiences with you.

8 Schlegel Village of Riverside Glen Welcome Dear Student, I would like to welcome you to The Village of Riverside Glen. As the General Manager, it is my privilege to work with a strong team to provide the best possible quality of life for our residents in Long-Term Care and Retirement living. I ve been working with seniors for over 20 years and that is because I enjoy people. Residents stop by my office daily to say hi or to share a story. Our Village is designed to build a community while serving residents' personal needs. To that extent, we work as an integrated and inter-professional team, of which you now will be a part. As a student, you will have a unique opportunity to be trained in a living classroom environment, where learning happens in formal and informal ways. We are looking forward to have you onboard and trust that this experience is the start of a great career in the care for seniors. Brad Lawrence General Manager Village of Riverside Glen

9 Chair of Nursing Welcome Address Dear Personal Support Worker Student, Welcome to the Personal Support Worker (PSW) Certificate Program. You have worked hard to be accepted into the PSW Program at Conestoga College and we commend you on your success. This handbook has been prepared to provide further information about academic standards, guidelines and processes specific to the PSW Program at the Riverside Glen Schlegel Village in Guelph. Reading, understanding, and following the information in this handbook, is an important first step in your continued success in this program and your chosen profession. The handbook has been compiled with careful consideration for your personal and professional growth during your time at the college. If you do not understand any of the information in this handbook, please ask any of our Faculty or the Chair of Nursing for an explanation. Use the Table of Contents in this handbook as your guide and the contents as your continuous reference as you proceed through the program. The PSW faculty will refer to the handbook often, but the responsibility for knowing the program standards is ultimately yours. In addition to the PSW Program Standards and Procedures Handbook, the Conestoga College Student Guide outlines important policies and procedures for you to follow. The PSW Program Standards and Procedures Handbook is a supplement to, but not a replacement for, the Conestoga College Student Guide. We are here to help you have a successful journey. Should you experience difficultly or need assistance in any area of your studies, please talk to your professor, Program Coordinator, or come to my office to seek direction to ensure your success in the program. All the very best to you in your studies. Sincerely, Lynn Voelzing Chair for Nursing Programs.

10 Table of Contents 1 PROGRAM OVERVIEW... 1 Program Description... 1 Program Philosophy... 1 Values/Beliefs that Guide the Personal Support Worker Program Curriculum... 1 Our Beliefs about Those Receiving Supportive Care... 1 Our Beliefs about Those Who Care For Individuals Requiring Supportive Care... 1 Our Beliefs Applied To the Personal Support Worker Program... 2 Our Beliefs about the Experiential Learning Experience... 2 Program Summary Map... 3 Program Outcomes... 4 Key Performance Indicators RELATIONSHIPS... 7 Program Directory... 7 Living Classroom Faculty... 7 Guelph Campus Contacts... 7 Counseling Services:... 7 Learning Resource Centre (LRC)... 7 Contacting Program Faculty... 8 Student Faculty Availability... 8 Procedures for Meeting with Faculty... 8 Student Concerns/Issues... 9 Class Cancellations due to Faculty Absence... 9 Cancellation of Schedules Classes/Clinical Experiences due to Inclement Weather Posted Information for Students WIHSC: Waterloo Interprofessional Health Care Student Collaboartive STANDARDS OF CONDUCT AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE Guidelines for Student Use of Classrooms, labs and shared spaces Safety and Security at the Village of Riverside Glen In The Event of a Fire Alarm/Emergency: Parking: Security Code: Access to Conestoga College Areas at Riverside Glen Identification Clinical Learning Centre/Open Access Lab Human Resources Accessing the Clinical Learning Centre/Open Access Lab ix

11 Remedial Use of the Clinical Learning Centre and Make-Up Labs User Responsibility Regarding Clinical Learning Centre Maintenance Safe Practice Dress Requirements for Labs and Clinical Placements Uniforms, Grooming and other Guidelines Uniform Regulations Footwear Identification Jewelry Hair Fingernails Fragrances Smoking Chewing Gum Food and Beverages Cellphones/Smartphones Dress Code for Agencies not requiring Uniforms Transportation of Uniform to and from Clinical Settings Program Standards for Professional Practice Preamble Social Media Policy Guidelines for Professional Success related to Social Media Privacy and Confidentiality Acknowledgement of Privacy Confidentiality Disclosure of Student Information Release of Student Information ATTENDANCE AND STUDENT SUCCESS STRATEGIES Characteristics of Successful Students Attendance Attendance for Evaluations Notification for Absence from Evaluations Documentation to Substantiate Your Reported Absence Clinical Practice Cancellation of clinical experiences Use of Time between Classes General Guidelines Regarding Assignments Submitting Assignments Working Together On Group Assignments: Faculty Returning Tests and Assignments x

12 An Important Note about ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Plagiarism Copyright What Students Need to Know Cumulative Copying Importance of Test and Presentation Dates Test Procedures Methods of Evaluation Types of Evaluation Formative Summative Evaluation Forms Summative Evaluation Evaluation of Clinical/Lab Skills Definitions Criteria for Evaluating Clinical/Lab Skills Satisfactory Criteria Unsatisfactory Criteria Late Submissions of Practice Written Work Clinical Remediation Process Religious Holidays ACADEMIC PROGRESS THROUGH THE PROGRAM Academic Standing Promotion The Order in Which Courses are to be taken Requirements for Taking the Clinical Practicum Courses Reasons for Students Progress Being Reviewed By Promotion Committee The Promotion Committee s recommendations may include any one or a combination of the following: Process for Readmission to the Program Supplemental Work and Program Standards Withdrawal Appeal Clearance of Academic Deficiency Special Timetables/Adding Dropped or Failed Courses Re-entry to the program Graduation Additional Information for Students Change of Name, Address, and Telephone Number Guidelines and Expenses Incurred Relating to Clinical Practice Part-Time Work Reference Letter from Faculty Information to Supplement the Information Found In The Conestoga xi

13 Student Guide Maintaining Student Files CLINICAL PLACEMENT EXPERIENCES Practicum Health Requirements Criminal Screening WSIB Basic Safety Training Acknowledgement of Safety Training Clinical Placements Concerns regarding the Safety of the Work Environment: Communication of General Concerns regarding Your Safety or The Safety and Care/Service for Clients Reporting of Incidents of Student Injury during a Practicum Experience Reporting of Student Involvement in Situations of Possible Injury: Clinical Placement Standards STANDARD #1: STANDARD #2: STANDARD #3: STANDARD #4: Transportation and Parking Transportation Parking Fees STUDENT AWARDS Awards available exclusively to PSW students APPENDIX Professional Standards Acknowledgement of Safety Training and Responsibilities Student Declaration of Understanding Unpaid Work/Education Placement Accident/Incident Report Interview Record xii

14 1 PROGRAM OVERVIEW Program Description Conestoga s Personal Support Worker 30 week Program offers an integrated plan of learning in which the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values critical to your goal of becoming a Personal Support Worker are presented in a logical sequence which builds on itself and provides the opportunity to integrate increasing knowledge with opportunities to apply theory to practice in more complex ways. Program Philosophy The philosophy of personal supportive care is based on the belief that the individual client and his/her family are unique individuals with unique experiences. Each individual and family have basic needs and the potential to meet their basic needs, however at times, assistance may be required because of age, environmental and health related factors. Values/Beliefs that Guide the Personal Support Worker Program Curriculum Our Beliefs about Those Receiving Supportive Care We believe that: The Personal Support Worker provides quality supportive care for individual clients and/or families throughout the lifespan and at various levels of health and wellness, utilizing a holistic approach. The Personal Support Worker recognizes the interrelatedness of the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of the individual and stressing optimum functional restoration. The individual client s right to respect, dignity, confidentiality, cultural integrity, independence, well- being, choice, and self-determination are supported and promoted by the Personal Support Worker to enhance quality of life throughout the life cycle. Our Beliefs about Those Who Care For Individuals Requiring Supportive Care We believe that: The Personal Support Worker is a valued contributing member of the interprofessional health care team and works under the direction of registered and or designated personnel, and in partnership with clients and/or their families, in institutional and/or home care environments. An atmosphere of mutual respect between all individuals is promoted. The Personal Support Worker learns in an environment that enhances personal and educational growth. Principles of adult education guide the teaching-learning process. Students accept responsibility for their learning, and faculty facilitates mastery of the student's learning needs. Legal, moral and ethical guidelines govern the practice of the Personal Support Worker. 1

15 The Personal Support Worker recognizes that he/she will function in a continually changing society and health care system, which reflects an increasingly aging and multi-cultural population. Our Beliefs Applied To the Personal Support Worker Program We believe that Conestoga College s PSW Program incorporates the above philosophy into our program by: Accommodating, to the best of our ability, individual situations, as appropriate for emerging adult learners. Encouraging and expecting students to develop behaviors necessary in the workforce and in the PSW profession, including: self-reflection, responsibility for self and own actions, honesty, integrity, and punctuality. Designing courses and experiences to support students in constructing knowledge about supportive care in meaningful ways. Modeling a variety of teaching styles, providing a variety of learning experiences, and by using a variety of evaluation methods. Modeling communication and problem-solving skills as well as professional behaviours and attitudes required of personal support workers. Supporting the integration of theory and practice By providing students with opportunities to connect theory and its application in combination with practical experience Facilitating students understanding to enable them to make sense of their practical experiences in view of theory. Engaging students actively in their learning process. Recognizing and appreciating the different styles and approaches to learning that an emerging adult learner may use/exhibit (multiple intelligences). Building on previous successes in order to enhance confidence of the student as a learner. Supporting students as they develop their professional philosophy. Mentoring students as they proceed through their journey of becoming a personal support worker in both the classroom, lab and through their clinical placement experiences. Offering general knowledge and generic skills, in addition to specific vocational skills. Endeavoring to support the PSW field and the local community, believing that learning is lifelong, and that personal support workers play a vital role in our society. Our Beliefs about the Experiential Learning Experience Experiential learning experiences provide: students with opportunities to develop skills to apply in a clinical environment; an environment of practice for students that supports a reflective, intentionally responsive philosophy; students with the opportunity to work with a team who support, evaluate, and mentor them as they work to acquire the skills and attitudes necessary of a Personal Support Worker; 2

16 an environment where the teaching team and students work together to implement and evaluate new skills necessary to work in the health care field as a Personal Support Worker. Program Summary Map 3

17 Program Outcomes Upon completion of the program, the graduate will: 1. Work within the PSW role in a variety of care settings including: long-term, community and/or hospital care settings in accordance with applicable legislation and employer s role and job description, policies, procedures and guidelines. 2. Practice professional work ethics and demonstrate professional behaviours in interactions with clients, families, care partners, supervisors, and interprofessional team members in a variety of care settings. 3. Act responsibly and be accountable for one s own actions while recognizing the boundaries of knowledge and skills within the PSW role that necessitates using problem solving, time management, stress management and critical thinking skills and strategies and requires collaboration with the client, family, care partners, supervisor and/or other members. 4. Participate as a member of the interprofessional care team and maintain collaborative working relationships, accept and integrate constructive feedback, and use effective and appropriate communication and relationship skills to provide supportive client-centred care in a variety of care settings. 5. Provide client-centred and client-directed care that promotes independence and is based on ethical principles, sensitive to diverse client and family values, beliefs and needs and which follows the direction of the interprofessional care team. 6. Assist clients across the lifespan with routine activities of daily living supporting clients rights and preferences and applying knowledge and skills of growth and development, evidence informed practice, common alterations in functioning, health and wellness promotion or maintenance, risk prevention and reduction, rehabilitation and restorative care. 7. Assist clients with medication and treatments in keeping with the plan of care/service plan and under the direction and/or monitoring of a regulated health professional or most accountable person and in accordance with relevant legislation and employer policy. 8. Assist with household management tasks and instrumental activities of daily living in accordance with the plan of care/service plan and considering the preferences, comfort and safety of the client, family and care partners as well as the safety of the PSW and the safe use of household equipment. 9. Assist family and care partners who are caring for dependent individuals, considering clients and family choices, the direction of the plan of care/service plan, and the PSW s professional boundaries. 10. Assist in the provision of client-centred, culturally relevant, palliative and end of life care to clients, their families and care partners including observing, reporting, documenting and transferring accountability in accordance with the plan of care/service plan. 4

18 11. Observe, report and document relevant client information using the appropriate mode of verbal or written communication and written or electronic documentation in a timely manner and in accordance with the required employer policies and procedures and applicable legislation. 12. Understand how to establish and maintain helping and professional relationships with clients, their families and care partners and support systems which reflect open communication, advocacy, professional boundaries, employer s policies and adherence to confidentiality and privacy legislation. 13. Promote and maintain a safe and comfortable environment for clients, their families, and care partners, self and others including recognition of environmental and personal safety risks, the implementation of infection prevention and control measures, and emergency first aid procedures that are in keeping with the plan of care/service plan and employers policies and procedures. 14. Identify and report situations of neglect and potential, alleged or witnessed/actual incidents of abuse of clients, family, care partners, and/or PSWs and respond in accordance with all applicable legislation and employer policies and procedures. 15. Use identified approaches and evidence-informed practices while providing client centred care to support clients experiencing mental health illness, cognitive impairment and/or responsive behaviours. 16. Apply knowledge of and commitment to continuous quality improvement and change initiatives, including the responsibility of ongoing and continuing professional development. 5

19 Key Performance Indicators Each year, all Ontario college students are invited to complete an anonymous survey which measures the quality of the student learning environment and experience against a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPI). This section explains the Personal Support Worker Program s commitment to excellence and quality. 1. How does the Personal Support Worker Program prepare me for a career? Conestoga s Personal Support Worker Program offers an integrated plan of learning over two semesters. During these two semesters, the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values you will need to become a Personal Support Worker are presented in a logical sequence and provide you with the opportunity to integrate theory and practice. Classroom learning is closely integrated into your experiential learning experiences. Your clinical experiences bring to life what you learn in the classroom. Each semester provides knowledge and skills that builds toward your future profession: Semester One: Engagement into / Fundamentals of Professional Practice Semester Two: Expansion / Consolidation of Professional Practice 2. Is my Personal Support Worker certificate a recognized and valued credential in the real world? We are very pleased to inform you that the content and quality of your Personal Support Worker Certificate meets the standards of the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities and the requirements of the Long-Term Act. In addition, many employers in this region have told us that applicants with a Conestoga PSW certificate are their preferred hires. 3. What quality standards are in place that will ensure that I am getting a top-quality learning experience? How do I make my opinion about my learning experience known? The Provincial Government has established KPIs which are designed to measure the quality of both the teaching and the learning experience in all programs. By establishing Program Quality Standards based on these key performance indicators the Personal Support Worker program is able to evaluate its performance against the standards and measure its success relative to other programs across the Province. We offer the information of how quality standards relate to the learning experience we provide for you, but most importantly, we also invite your feedback at any time, especially if you feel that a standard is not being met or there is a concern that is not addressed by these standards. Together, faculty and students can ensure that our program continues to be one that students, graduates and employers value and continues to be one of the highest rated programs in the Province, based on the province s KPIs. 6

20 2 RELATIONSHIPS Program Directory The Village of Riverside Glen: Doon Campus: Living Classroom Faculty Patricia Bower (Program Coordinator) ext. 507 Administration Lynn Voelzing (Chair of Nursing) ext Megan Faulkner (Program Assistant) ext Guelph Campus Contacts Telephone: Donna McCarthy (OSAP Queries) Ext: 6148 Career/ Welcome Centre: Disability Services Test Booking (students with accommodations) Ext Counseling Services: Keith Martin - Wednesdays, 8:00-3:30 Ext Learning Resource Centre (LRC) Tessa Dueck (Doon Campus) Ext

21 Contacting Program Faculty When contacting program staff outside of class time, please use Conestoga College or telephone. Your message should include the following information: First and last name, Course and level, Brief description of reason for contact, Telephone number where you can be reached. Student All students are supplied with a Conestoga address. Communications from faculty will be via your Conestoga address or posted on Conestoga s on-line Learning Management System econestoga. Official Conestoga communication via will use only your Conestoga address. Use only your Conestoga e- mail address or econestoga when communicating with faculty. Students are expected to check their Conestoga regularly. If you are having problems accessing your Conestoga contact the Information Technology (IT) department at ext as soon as possible. Faculty Availability Faculty are located in the faculty office in the Conestoga area at Riverside Glen, on the lower level of the long term care building. Students are welcome to see individual faculty to discuss course work, assignments, or other matters related to their success at Conestoga. During the first days of the semester faculty will explain how you can contact them outside of class time. As faculty have diverse teaching schedules, it is best to make an appointment to ensure they are available. Procedures for Meeting with Faculty Most faculty share space in an open office arrangement. In the interest of respecting the work environment for everyone in this area we ask students to confirm by phone that the faculty member they wish to see is at his/her desk before entering the faculty workspace area. We thank you for your cooperation in adhering to this procedure. Students are not permitted to enter a faculty member s office or cubicle unless the faculty member is present. 8

22 Student Concerns/Issues We appreciate that concerns/issues may arise during the learning experience. Our goal is to collaborate to resolve situations of concern quickly, and to learn and improve from these situations. To achieve this goal, we need an effective problem-solving environment. This means: a. When a situation of concern arises, it needs to be raised immediately and discussed by the individuals involved. This is the most important area for effective problem-solving. **Problem-solving, closest to the individual associated with the learning, is the place to start. b. Please see the Student Concerns/Issues section in the Student Rights and Responsibilities chapter of the College Student Guide for further guideline details on the formal and informal procedures to resolve concerns and issues. c. Please note that issues and concerns related to a placement site, its operation or its employees should first be brought to the attention of the Conestoga Clinical Instructor/Responsible faculty/field Placement Supervisor, subject to the additional procedures outlined in the following Sections on Professionalism and Concerns Regarding Safety or Care/Service for Clients during a Practicum/Field Placement. Class Cancellations due to Faculty Absence All class cancellations due to faculty absences will be posted in the Student Portal on the left hand side of the first page, which a student can see after logging in. These notices in the Student Portal will be the only general notifications of class cancellations due to faculty absences. Faculty who will be absent will not be informing students of class cancellations through the econestoga Learning Management System. Option To Receive Personal Notifications Of Class Cancellations Students have the option of receiving special s or SMS text messages notifying them of class cancellations due to faculty absences. To receive such personal notifications, students must subscribe to this special service. To subscribe: 1. Log in to the Student Portal 2. Select Notifications under the Profile tab 3. Select the method by which you would like to be notified 4. Click Update. 9

23 Note: To change the address to which these notifications will be sent, select My Addresses under the Profile Tab, and change the default address. Cancellation of Schedules Classes/Clinical Experiences due to Inclement Weather Refer to the Conestoga College Student Guide for the current year, for information about general closure of Conestoga due to inclement weather. For clinical placements and practicums, Conestoga Clinical Instructors within the facility make the judgement as to whether the shift should be cancelled or discontinued. Individual Instructors will make arrangements for contacting students in the event of inclement weather during clinical placement practicums. Posted Information for Students Program-related information is posted on econestoga. It is students' responsibility to check this regularly. WIHSC: Waterloo Interprofessional Health Care Student Collaborative Conestoga College offers many unique and exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. One of the things that contribute to the excellence of this college is the host of exciting extracurricular opportunities that add to the culture of this fine institution. WIHSC (Waterloo Interprofessional Healthcare Student Collaborative) is one such club whose members strive to learn with, from, and about each other. Membership of this active group is comprised of students enrolled in health, community, and social sciences programs at the Doon and Riverside Glen/Guelph campuses. Some of the most popular initiatives that this group regularly engages in are interactive simulation exercises, peer-mentoring, guest speakers, paper case studies, and monthly meetings. To find out more about this exciting opportunity, please visit for the WIHSC Website. The website includes information on past events (pictures and videos) as well as how to get involved. Get involved, have fun, and learn more the team members you will work with upon graduation! For more information, please contact the faculty advisor,. 10

24 3 STANDARDS OF CONDUCT AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE Guidelines for Student Use of Classrooms, labs and shared spaces Classrooms and Labs make up the formal learning environment at Conestoga. For this reason it is expected that these spaces be considered an extension of the professional world you are aspiring to enter. In keeping with this, when using classrooms, labs, and shared spaces: Be mindful of your language; both choice of words and tone Discussions of an unprofessional nature or of unrelated topics should not take place, and will be actively discouraged by Conestoga faculty and the team at Riverside Glen Be considerate of other students, clients, families and the team in classrooms when walking through the halls by avoiding unnecessary noise No food, and only bottled water (with a cap) in classrooms No food or drink in clinical lab areas, or in computer lab areas The materials and equipment from the lab must remain in the lab unless specific permission has been given to use them elsewhere and they have been signed out Show respect for the learning environment, equipment, and shared spaces at Riverside Glen Come prepared for lab and to review the related theory prior to coming to lab Leave rooms clean after each class Permission must be given by faculty before using any of the materials or equipment in labs or classrooms Please remember that the labs are a clinical setting. The requirement for proper hand hygiene is in effect Note: It is expected that students will take the opportunity to practice lab skills between labs classes. Past experiences have shown that students who practice are more likely to be successful. Safety and Security at the Village of Riverside Glen In The Event of a Fire Alarm/Emergency: 1. Conestoga faculty and students will stop and listen to the announcement. 2. If the emergency is in the Retirement side of the building (will be in the announcement) remain in the classrooms and continue to listen for any further instructions. 3. If you feel more comfortable leaving the building you must exit via the Fire Exit door and designated fire route as mentioned below. 4. If the emergency is in Long Term Care building: o The page will tell you where the emergency is. o You will then exit by the Fire Exit door. o There are emergency exit arrows on the walls to direct you to the Fire Exit door and a Fire Exit sign is at the Fire Exit door. 11

25 Parking: Parking is provided at no charge for Conestoga College students at Riverside Glen. All students are to park in a designated area only. These areas will be identified during the first week of the program. If all parking spots are taken, students must park in designated alternate areas. These areas will be identified during the first week of the program. Under no circumstance are students to park in other parking areas other than designated areas. These areas are for residents and family and many are owned and paid for by the residence. Security Code: The back door from student parking area is secured and entry can only be accessed by using the security code number. You will be notified of this security code the first week of class. Under no circumstance is this code to be shared with any other person who is not a student in your program. Access to Conestoga College Areas at Riverside Glen Conestoga College areas at Riverside Glen are for Conestoga College Students only. Identification All Conestoga College students must wear their College picture identification badge while in The Village of Riverside Glen. Students must also have an available copy of their clear health passport and their VSS. Clinical Learning Centre/Open Access Lab Human Resources Nurse Technologists are Registered Nurses and Registered Practical Nurses who work in the Clinical Learning Centre. Nurse Technologists act as a resource in introducing users to the lab, maintaining the lab environment/supplies, and assisting students with practice and evaluation of skills related to client care. The Nurse Technologists are also available to students requiring remedial assistance. Accessing the Clinical Learning Centre/Open Access Lab Booking practice time/and or materials may be done in person with the Nurse Technologists or by telephone ( ext. 607) or by . All materials borrowed for use outside the lab must be signed for and returned to the lab in good condition within the specified time. Use of the Clinical Learning Centre after hours may be booked if previously arranged with the Nurse Technologist. A student using the lab after hours must be accompanied by another student in the same program. Only students in the program and program faculty are allowed in the Clinical Resource Centre and Open Access Labs. 12

26 Remedial Use of the Clinical Learning Centre and Make-Up Labs Make-Up Labs If, for any reason, a scheduled lab is missed, it is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements for make-up experience. Students are accountable for learning of skills and/or theory related to the lab experience. However, evaluation of skill competency can only be conducted by the assigned faculty member. The following steps should be taken: Review theory: class notes, assigned reading, and Audio Visual (AV) resources. Practice skills with a peer who attended lab, preferably from your clinical or lab group. The complete content of the lab must be covered using the appropriate amount of time. Contact your Instructor regarding additional supervision of skill, and formal evaluation of the skill. Please note that if remedial work is required, a Referral Form must be obtained from your Instructor before booking an appointment. All make-up labs must be completed within two weeks of the student s missed lab and/or before clinical placements. User Responsibility Regarding Clinical Learning Centre Maintenance All users are responsible for ensuring that the Clinical Learning Centre/Lab is maintained as safe and tidy environment. In particular: All equipment is to be returned in the condition in which it was received; All beds are to be left in low position, neatly made, with furniture positioned appropriately; Manikins are to be handled carefully (and not placed on the floor); and Chairs are to be stacked safely in designated areas when not in use. All materials borrowed by Instructors and students for use outside the Clinical Learning Centre must be signed for and returned to the Centre in good condition within the specified time. Students are responsible for the replacement of damaged or lost equipment in the Clinical Learning Centre, or community agencies. (E.g. Student drops and breaks IVAC thermometer) Safe Practice Conestoga is committed to establishing and maintaining a healthy and safe work and study environment. Safe practice is part of professional practice. It is an expectation of everyone who is or wants to be a professional. There are a number of policies and procedures associated with practical training in your program that have been developed to ensure your safety and the safety (physical and emotional) of those around you. These will be reviewed with you during your program. The following basic procedures are outlined for your attention and follow-through: 1. Your personal safety begins with the use of professional attire, foot wear, and with your attention to the health and safety expectations that may be identified throughout The Village of Riverside Glen. 13

27 2. Help us have a safe and pleasant environment by wiping up spills, by ensuring lap-top cords do not snake across walking areas, and by reporting equipment or facility problems when you see them. (Concerns such as these may be reported to your instructor or Coordinator). 3. Specific dress codes, personal protective equipment, and specific codes of behavioral conduct may apply to certain programs. Failure to follow these may result in your inability to participate in a lab, class, or experiential learning activity. 4. Safe work practices are to be followed during all training: follow the direction of your instructors. If you have a practicum, your Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty member will ensure that you are aware of safe practices, safety precautions, and procedures. This includes problem-solving by the Responsible Faculty and Program Coordinator, with the College s Occupational Health & Safety Department as required. For example, should outside temperatures during the summer become unusually hot, very high temperatures may occur in some workplaces. This could require that specific steps be taken to ensure a safe working environment. 5. All safety-related accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to the Instructor-in- Charge immediately. This is an opportunity to problem-solve about how to avoid these areas of concern for the future. Please refer to the Safety form in the Appendix; this is an acknowledgement of your responsibility to be aware of safety expectations within your Program. Dress Requirements for Labs and Clinical Placements In order to maintain these as safe, professional spaces, appropriate dress must be worn. The purpose of this dress code is to insure the safety of the student, faculty, and staff, and also to prepare them for the clinical environment. The dress code is designed to comply with infection control procedures, workplace health and safety considerations, and professional safety. All lab areas are covered by this policy for all programs in the School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services. Faculty and Nurse Technologists reserve the right to ask students who do not conform to the uniform policy to leave the clinical, community, or lab setting. Time missed must then be made up by the student. Uniforms, Grooming and other Guidelines Uniform Regulations Full uniform must be worn in clinical areas and college simulation labs. Bottom of the pant hemline must be sewn above the sole of the shoe. Warm-up jackets or sweaters that coordinate with the uniform are acceptable, but must not be worn during direct care. Slips should be worn with skirts. Undergarments must be worn. Choice and style of undergarments should not create a major contrast between body colour and uniform colour. Head coverings must be neutral. 14

28 If ¾ length shirts or t-shirts are to be worn under the designated Practical Nursing uniform they must be black, grey or spruce green. Footwear Uniform shoes must be clean, and black or white in colour, slip resistant with closed toes and heels. Shoes worn with the uniform are not to be worn outside of the agency. Clogs (wooden or other), and crocs do not meet the definition of acceptable footwear. Identification Conestoga identification (name tags) must be worn and visible at all times in all clinical settings. Identification must include first and last name, and designation (e.g. PSW Student). Institutional Photo ID may also be required, at the discretion of the institution. Jewelry Jewelry can be a source of bacteria and injury to students and clients. For these reasons the following restrictions related to Jewelry are necessary: NO rings, other than a plain wedding band; NO chains - necklaces or bracelets; NO facial or oral Jewelry. Watches may be worn on the wrist or uniform, except when giving direct care. Watches worn on the wrist must first be removed. One (1) pair of studs with no dangles only, may be worn in the ears. Flesh colored solid spacers are acceptable. Hair During nursing care it is important that hair not fall forward potentially contaminating clean/sterile areas. For this reason, hair should be neat, clean, and kept out of the eyes. If hair is long, it should be tied back and secured with small, plain clips. Long pony tails should be secured up on the head, and not allowed to dangle onto a patient field of care. Hair colour must be of a natural shade (i.e. no green, blue, pink, etc.). Students must be clean shaven or have neatly trimmed beards and/or moustaches. Fingernails Nails should be kept short, not past the fingertip, and clean. Nail polish, nail jewelry, acrylic or artificial nails, are easily dislodged or chipped and thus harbour microorganisms. For this reason these items are not permitted in the clinical environment. Fragrances Personal fragrances (perfume, colognes) should not be worn as fragrances can cause problems for those with allergies. Smoking Smoking in the agency setting at Riverside Glen is against the law and violators may be subject to a fine. As health care workers you need to model a healthy lifestyle. 15

29 Chewing Gum Chewing gum is not allowed in the clinic, lab and placement or in the shared space of Riverside Glen. Food and Beverages Food and beverages are allowed in designated areas only. (E.g. Staff lounge areas, café, etc.) Cellphones/Smartphones Cellphones and/or smartphones for personal use are not permitted at the Riverside Glen classrooms and in the lab. Please Note: Purses, coats, knapsacks, and extra books are to be left in a student locker and are not permitted in labs. Dress Code for Agencies not requiring Uniforms Conestoga identification (name tags) must be worn and visible at all times in all clinical settings. Identification must include first and last name and designation. Institutional Photo ID may also be required, at the discretion of the institution. Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes with closed toes and heels. Street clothing should inspire confidence in your ability to care for the client in an appropriate manner (remember this is not a social visit). The following are not appropriate for these settings: jeans, tights and leggings, sweat pants, tracksuits, warm-up suits, collarless t-shirts, ankle socks with skirts, revealing necklines or short skirts. Requests for accommodations of this regulation (e.g. for religious or disability reasons) will be considered within the framework of the Conestoga College Policy for Human Rights. Faculty reserve the right to ask students who do not conform to the uniform policy to leave the clinical community or lab setting. Transportation of Uniform to and from Clinical Settings It is important that your uniform be clean when arriving at Riverside Glen and that a soiled uniform (that is, one that has been worn for client care) not be worn in a public place. Uniform shoes are NOT to be worn outside of Riverside Glen. In the clinical setting that allows uniforms to be worn to and from work, the student must ensure that the uniform is covered when outside of the clinical setting (ex. With a knee-length coat) and that the student is traveling directly between the clinical setting and home. 16

30 In the clinical settings that require the student to change at the agency, the student will wear street clothes in to the setting and when returning home. The uniform is to be kept in a protective covering during transit. It is the responsibility of the student to review the particular agency policy regarding wearing the uniform to and from the agency setting. Program Standards for Professional Practice Preamble You are now embarking on a career that will provide you with many personal and professional rewards, and challenges, and brings with it a great deal of responsibility. As a Personal Support Worker you will be delivering care to members of our society who are often the least able to care for themselves, and who are the most in need of the kind of care you will be able to provide. The type of care and support you provide will make a huge difference in the lives of those you care for, their families, and their friends. Conestoga College School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services has been given the mandate to prepare Personal Support Workers. The Province of Ontario expects the College to graduate Personal Support Workers who meet the standards that have been established for the profession. Personal Support Workers function in a dependent and interdependent environment. The majority of the time, the practitioner's involvement in the care at the recipient's side is of an independent nature, when direct supervision of an action is not always possible. There is an implicit trust by the client that the Personal Support Worker is an ethical, moral, and competent person. It is the responsibility of the School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services to ensure that every graduate is capable of functioning in accordance with the professional standards expected of all health sciences disciplines. As students preparing to become professionals, it is imperative that behaviours and attitudes reflect standards that are endorsed by Conestoga College and your chosen profession. As a student of Conestoga College, you are a member of the college community and as such you have received a Conestoga Student Guide that includes Student Rights, Student Responsibilities, and the Student Code of Conduct. The Student Responsibilities section includes detailed information regarding plagiarism, cheating, and academic dishonesty. It is essential that you review this section and familiarize yourself with these responsibilities. It is expected that your conduct as a student will be reflective of the responsibilities listed. If you have any questions regarding any of them, please contact your Program Coordinator. In addition to all Student Responsibilities found in the Conestoga Student Guide, PSW students have the following obligations: Complete the learning objectives, tests, assignments and all other forms of student work, with honesty and professional integrity; 17

31 Attend class, lab and clinical placement as scheduled; Actively engage in classroom, lab, and clinical learning processes; Demonstrate ethical and professional behaviour while attending class, lab, Riverside Glen, and clinical placement; protect the integrity of the Program and the College; Maintain the confidentiality of all classroom, lab, and clinical placement experiences, including use of any form of social media, and; Seek clarification from faculty/administration when unsure of any of these standards. Social Media Policy Social media has many advantages for a professional. It can be used to network, resource information and keep current As a STUDENT AND FUTURE PROFESSIONAL, it is essential to maintain professional boundaries in all communication, including Social Media. Figure 1 illustrates that many social connections an individual student may have. These connections may occur in both the real and virtual worlds. BE AWARE: Electronic messages are not anonymous. They can be tracked, misdirected, manipulated and live forever on the internet. Social media sites create and archive copies of every piece of content posted, even when deleted from on-line profiles. Once information is digitalized, the author relinquishes all control. Online identities and actions are visible to the public and can result in serious repercussions or embarrassment. As the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Ontario notes, users may intend to share their online existence solely within their own network, but in theory anyone can access the user s musings, photos and information. Further, the words can be altered, forwarded and misquoted. 1 Ensure that your posts reflect you as the professional you are and wish to become if a potential employer were to see your posts! 18