Practicum I - Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist Syllabus for 2021-2022
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Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Student Service Center office 112. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

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Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

The Tutoring for Success policy applies to any student whose grade or performance in the course falls below a departmentally determined minimum threshold. In either of those cases, the instructor will direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. Under this policy, the instructor will follow specific departmental guidelines governing the use, duration, and grade component of the tutoring need.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

RSPT-1166-001 Practicum I - Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: RSPT 1410

Course Description

Practical, general workplace training supported by an individualized learning plan developed by the employer, college and student.

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(1 sem hr; 8 practicum)

Class Type

Clinical

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Supplies

1. Appropriate clinical attire (scrubs with embroidered AC logo, photo ID)
2. Stethoscope
3. Glasses
4. Notebook or Folder with appropriate clinic documents and forms

Student Performance

As outlined in the learning plan, apply the theory, concepts, and skills involving specialized materials, tools, equipment, procedures, regulations, laws, and interactions within and amoung political, economic, environmental, social, and legal systems associated with the occupation and the business/industry and will demonstrate legal and ethical behavior, safety practices, interpersonal and teamwork skills, and appropriate written and oral communication skills using terminology of the occupation and business/industry.

Under the direct supervision of assigned clinicians students will demonstrate the following competencies in the clinical setting:

1. Oxygen therapy
2. Bland aerosol therapy
3. Medicated aerosol therapy
4. Incentive spirometry
5. Positive airway pressure therapy
6. Chest percussion and postural drainage
7. Airway clearance

The followings Objective Sheets must be turned in in the time frame described in "Grading Criteria":

1.    Oxygen Rounds  x 2**
2.    Ambient Oxygen x 2**
3.    Pulse Oximetry
4.    Aerosol or USN
5.    Metaneb Treatment x2**
6.    SVN Treatment x 2**
7.    MDI Treatment x 2**
8.    Vibratory PEP x 2**
9.    Chest Percussion and Postural Drainage x 2**
10.  Incentive Spirometry x 2**
11.  EZ-PAP Treatment x 2**
12.  In-line suctioning of an Artificial Airway

** One completed before Spring Break and 1 completed after Spring Break (The therapists at NWTH do not do Incentive spirometry, so if you are scheduled at that facility, you must do 2 IS's at the other clinical facility in which you are scheduled).

At the end of each rotation, you must obtain the signature of the AC faculty in charge of that rotation on the Completion of Clinical Objectives form.  No credit will be given for the rotation until this form is complete.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Students are expected to exhibit professional behavior while in the clinical setting as set forth in the Student Handbook.  Failure to do so will result in immediate dismissal from the clinical facility, a written incident form will be placed in the student’s file, and counseling will be conducted with the Program Director, Director of Clinical Education, and the Associate Dean.  Return to the facility requires the approval of the Program Director, Director of Clinical Education and the facility Department Manager.  A second incident of reported or observed unprofessional behavior will result in dismissal from the program.

Grievance Procedure: If a student is having a problem with course policies or the instructor, he or she should first try and resolve any such problems through the instructor.  If the problem is not resolved, the student may proceed to Respiratory Care Program Director (Becky Byrd), Associate Dean of Health Sciences (Kim Boyd), and Dean of Health Sciences (Kim Crowley).  If the student is still unsafisfied, they may proceed to the Vice President of Enrollment Management (Bob Austin) or to the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, (Becky Burton).

Clinical Guidelines

The clinical application courses in the program allows students to apply the theory and procedures covered in classroom and laboratory teaching.  In these courses, students will practice Respiratory Care in clinical affiliates under direct supervision of adjunct clinical instructors (preceptors).

A small portion of the required clinical hours is set aside to give credit for attending seminars directly related to Respiratory Care and participating in community service activities.  Every student will be required to document attending at least 32 hours of seminars prior to graduation.  Seminars available include local continuing education classes and district, regional, state and national educational conferences.  Every student will also be required to document participation in at least 4 hours of community service activities.  Information about these activities will be provided as they occur.

Dress Code

While in the clinical sites, students will wear black scrubs.  A solid white, gray or black t-shirt (short- or long-sleeved) can be worn under the scrub top.  The AC logo and “Respiratory Care Student” will be embroidered on the upper left of the top.  A photo ID badge indicating that the student is a Respiratory Care student will be worn – with name and photo visible – at all times.

Every student is expected maintain a neatly attired appearance, keeping the hair clean, appropriately styled and in a color that appears naturally in humans.  Fingernails should be clean and trimmed less than ¼ inch long from tip of finger. Nail polish of any kind and artificial nails are not allowed. Long hair will be kept tied back.  Beards and moustaches will be clean and neatly trimmed.  Visible body piercing and visible tattoos are not permissible.  Shoes may be of either athletic or casual (soft-soled) style.  No sandals or other open-toed shoes may be worn.  If there is any doubt about whether a particular shoe style or color may be worn, check with a faculty member before wearing it to clinic.

For safety, every student is encouraged to wear glasses with side protection or goggles in all patient care situations in the clinical setting.  If prescription glasses are worn, the present pair will suffice.  If prescription glasses are not worn, a pair with clear, non-prescription lenses can be purchased.  Contact lenses do not meet this requirement.

Jewelry should be kept simple and to the minimum.  The following items are acceptable:

      1.   Wedding bands

      2.   Wristwatches (required)

      3.   Post-type (stud) earrings

Bracelets, dangling earrings and necklaces are neither appropriate nor acceptable.  Earrings are limited to two per ear.

Since our patients have respiratory disorders and many are sensitive to strong odors, no perfumes or colognes should be worn.  This, however, does not preclude regular bathing and the use of deodorants.

“Non-hospital” clinical sites may have dress codes that vary from this standard.  If this is the case, the student will be notified regarding proper attire.

Non-conformance with any part of the dress code will be sufficient reason to be dismissed from the clinical setting.  A “Did Not Meet Objective” will be received on the uniform portion of the daily evaluation and return to the clinical affiliate may be jeopardized.

Remember, appearance and demeanor are the first communication with patients. A professional presence must be maintained at all times.

Conduct

Conduct as a student should be professional and above question at all times.  Without the cooperation of the area hospitals, this program would not be possible.  Misconduct by one student reflects on the entire program and places other students' use of available services at risk.

Students are expected to acknowledge and comply with the administrative authority of the assigned clinical faculty while practicing in the clinical setting. Students are expected to comply immediately, without dispute, with all clinical faculty and/or on-duty respiratory care practitioner instructions related to patient care.

The clinical instructor or supervisor has the authority to dismiss any student exhibiting improper or questionable behavior.  Once dismissed from clinic, the student may not return without the permission of the Program Director, the Director of Clinical Education and the hospital Department Director.

Any complaint against a hospital or any hospital personnel should be immediately brought to the attention of the Amarillo College instructor in charge of that rotation.  The instructor should be made aware of problems before taking any action to correct the situation. Faculty will then approach the conflict on a professional level with the clinical site staff.  Grievances will be processed according to Amarillo College policy (see "Amarillo College Student Rights and Responsibilities".

While in the clinical setting, professional conduct is expected.  Examples of professional conduct include:

      1.   showing due respect for the patient's needs, desires and person

      2.   preserving the confidentiality of patient records and information

      3.   showing respect for clinical supervisors and other hospital personnel

      4.   performing duties assigned by clinical instructors

      5.   arriving to clinical rotations on time

      6.   wearing approved uniform in the proper manner

Unprofessional and disrespectful conduct reflects poorly on the individual and, ultimately reflects poorly on the program.  Unprofessional conduct is neither condoned nor excused.  Examples of unprofessional conduct include:

1. failure to safeguard a patient's right to privacy as to the patient's person, condition, diagnosis, personal effects, or any other matter about which the licensee is privileged to know because of the licensee's position or practice as a respiratory therapist;
2. failure to provide respiratory therapy service in a manner that demonstrates respect for the patient's human dignity and unique personal character and needs without regard to the patient's race, religion, ethnic background, socioeconomic status, age, sex, or the nature of the patient's health problem;
3. unlawfully obtaining, possessing, or using any prescription drug or illicit drug;
4. unauthorized taking or personal use of respiratory therapy supplies from an employer;
5. unauthorized taking or personal use of a patient's personal property;
6. knowingly entering into any medical record any false or misleading information or altering a medical record in any way for the purpose of concealing an act, omission, or record of events, medical condition, or any other circumstance related to the patient and the medical or respiratory therapy care provided;
7. attending clinicals in an impaired state (extreme fatigue, illness, drugs, alcohol, etc.)

Participation in any of the above activities will lead to disciplinary actions which may include dismissal from the program.

The use of cellular phones in the clinical setting is strictly prohibited.

General Clinical Conduct Guidelines

1. There is a near zero tolerance for absences.
   1. Rescheduled days will not necessarily be at your convenience. Plan to be inconvenienced if rescheduled.
   2. Refer to Clinical Course Syllabi for grading policies.
2. You are a guest in the clinical facility. Conduct yourself accordingly.
   1. You are not "one of the gang".
   2. They do not want to hear about your previous expertise in the medical field, nor your personal problems.
3. Show eagerness to work. You will learn more skills, and see more procedures.
   1. Find little ways to 'lighten' your Preceptor’s work load.
   2. If there is nothing to do: Ask questions or study. Find something to do.
   3. Perform as if you are on a job interview because you just might be!
4. Stay with your assigned person. Don't roam the hospital.
   1. You eat when they eat and only with your Preceptor if invited. They may want to take a break alone.
   2. Don't leave the unit and/or your preceptor unless they give you permission.
   3. Follow the policies of the clinical site you're in. Don't make up your own rules.
5. You can be sent home by anyone associated with your clinical site for any reason. Don't argue!
   1. Politely thank them for their time and leave.
   2. Call your Amarillo College instructor immediately.
   3. Action will be taken as necessary after investigation.
6. AC works closely with the people in the clinical areas.
   1. All clinical personal are instructed to report absences, tardiness, or problems with students.
   2. In a nutshell - Appearances are deceiving; you are always under close supervision.
7. Five general steps to follow:
   1. Establish a rapport with your Preceptor.
      1. Introduce yourself.
      2. Show a genuine desire to learn and help them.
   2. Have the objectives you need to accomplish in mind and pass them on to your preceptor.
      1. They can't help you if they don't know what you need.
      2. This doesn't mean you should sound as if your objectives are all you are there to do.
      3. The objectives are your minimum competencies.
8. 3. Maintain a professional attitude at all times.
      1. Stay busy.
      2. Keep your opinions to yourself. Ears are everywhere!
      3. Speak ill of no one.
      4. Maintain patient confidentiality forever. Don't speak of what you have seen or heard to anyone! Bring problems or questions to class for your instructors to answer.
      5. Maintain personal hygiene, dress, nails, hair, and jewelry as described in the Dress Code section of this document.
      6. Hearsay, innuendo, rumor, or written factual details of inappropriate events involving students from the Respiratory Care program will be dealt with swiftly and aggressively! By the same token: report any events where you feel that you were treated poorly to your instructor.
      7. Never be heard to use vulgarity, off color, or disparaging statements about anything or anyone.
9. 4. Realize the Hospital setting is different from any place you have been before. Long-term care rationale is sometimes different than short-term care. Adapt to your setting when necessary.
10. 5. Smil Happy, eager students get to see more and do more!

Confidentiality

A patient’s identity, diagnosis and any procedure performed are considered confidential information.  Your responsibility in handling confidential patient information is described in the following statements:

There are three clauses in the American Association for Respiratory Care’s Code of Ethics that address patient confidentiality.  Respiratory Care Practitioners shall:

1. Demonstrate behavior that reflects integrity, supports objectivity, and fosters trust in the profession and its professionals.
2. Respect and protect the legal and personal rights of patients they treat, including the right to informed consent and refusal of treatment.
3. Divulge no confidential information regarding any patient or family unless disclosure is required for responsible performance of duty, or required by law.

Every student will agree to abide by these tenets and agree to protect the confidentiality of all patients and has a duty to keep medical and personal information about patients in the strictest confidence.  Unless disclosure has been granted by patient consent, statute, a duty to warn third parties, or special circumstances infectious diseases, there is a clear directive to maintain confidentiality of all patient information.

Failure to maintain patient confidentiality may incur liability for the student, the clinical facility and Amarillo College.  Failure to hold patient information in strict confidence will also jeopardize continuation in the Respiratory Care program at Amarillo College.

Attendance

The attendance policy for clinical courses is found in the grade requirements of each course.

Also, regarding attendance in clinic, it is important to be present at the beginning of the scheduled shift to receive report on assigned patients. Arriving late to clinic will result in a “Did Not Meet Objective” on the arrival portion of the daily evaluation, which results in a failing grade for the shift. It is equally important to remain throughout report at the end of the shift to give report to oncoming therapists. 

Clinical hours at all facilities will be documented using an internet-based time and record-keeping system. The student must use a personal electronic device (phone, tablet, or laptop) to “clock in and out” of a clinical rotation.

The respiratory therapy program will not excuse students from class or clinical experience due to employment schedules.  The expectation is to meet obligations to the course of study.

Due to the number of required clinical hours and the tight scheduling of student rotations, the attendance policy in clinical courses is stricter than didactic courses. If it is necessary to miss an assigned clinical shift, the student must notify the clinical site staff before the shift is to begin.  The clinical instructor must also be notified the same day.  Failure to follow this procedure will result in a grade of F for the clinical course. All hours that are missed must be made up and all makeup must be scheduled through the clinical instructor.  Procedure for clinical makeup is found in this Student Handbook.

            Affiliate telephone numbers:

                  Baptist/St. Anthony’s                             806-584-2017 (Lead Therapist)

                  Northwest Texas                                   806-674-9911 (Day Lead 7:00 am-7:00 pm)

                                                                               806-570-2037 (Night Lead 7:00 pm-7:00 am)

             Instructor office telephone numbers:

                 Becky Byrd              806-354-6058

                 Letha Black             806-354-6073

Call the instructor’s office number listed above and leave a voicemail message with the following information:

      1.   name

      2.   the affiliate where scheduled

      3.   the date and shift that will be missed

      4.   reason for absence

If “time off” is needed from clinic for a special reason, a schedule change will need to be initiated.  If the following steps are completed, this “time off” will not count as an absence or schedule change.

      1.   give the Director of Clinical Education a minimum of two (2) weeks advance notice

      2.   complete a Request for Change in Clinical Schedule form

      3.   complete the make-up before leave is taken

Approval of requests will be made by the Director of Clinical Education and will be based on the reason for the request, the amount of advance notice given and the scheduling of make-up.

It is the student’s responsibility to initiate the scheduled make-up time.  Make-up will be scheduled so as not to interfere with the rotations of other students and only with the approval of the hospital where it will occur.  The procedure for scheduling make-up is as follows:

      1.   complete the Request for Change in Clinical Schedule form

      2.   have the student’s advisor approve change and sign form

      3.   have lead therapist approve change and sign form

      4.   return completed form to Director of Clinical Education for final approval

   Note:     To receive proper credit, all steps must be completed before the scheduled make-up shift.

Interruption of Clinical Education

If, for any reason, clinical education is interrupted for one semester or more, the student will be required to prove continued clinical competency upon return.  This will include, but not be limited to, demonstrating skills in the clinical setting, under the supervision of an Amarillo College faculty member.  Readmission to the clinical portion of the program, and therefore the ability to complete the program, will be based on the faculty’s evaluation of the student’s readiness to return.

Removal From Clinicals

A student may be removed from clinic by the Program Director, Director of Clinical Education, or any of the Clinical Instructors for unprofessional behavior, inappropriate behavior, contagious illness, or physical limitations.  Students will not be allowed to return to clinic until approval is given by the Program Director, Director of Clinical Education, and/or the Respiratory Department Manager for the facility where the student was removed.

Unprofessional behavior while attending clinic will NOT be tolerated.  If a student behaves unprofessionally, a written incident will be placed on the students file and a formal counseling session will take place with the Program Director, Director of Clinical Education, and the Associate Dean of Health Sciences.  A second offense of unprofessional behavior committed by the student will result in immediate dismissal from the program.

Unprofessional behavior is a violation of any of the behaviors as outlined by the AARC Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct, any behavior that is rude and disruptive to the clinic experience for the student’s preceptor and/or peers, gossip of any kind related to Amarillo College, the clinical site, or the assigned preceptor, or any other type of disruptive behavior.  The incident will be fully investigated with gathering of statements from all parties involved for completeness of the incident report.  The student will be made aware of the findings and any decisions made in a private meeting with the Program Director, Director of Clinical Education, and the Associate Dean of Health Sciences.

Denial of Access to Clinical Affiliates

Completion of the Respiratory Care program requires completion of clinical rotations at all clinical affiliates.  If, for some reason, the student is denied access, in writing, to a clinical affiliate, the ability to complete the program will be jeopardized.

Clinical Schedules

In the semester prior to a clinical course, faculty may ask for the student’s preferred days to attend clinic. Bear in mind that this is only a request and does not guarantee the request will be granted.

Whenever feasible, clinical hours will be scheduled on the day shift.  However, due to scheduling constraints, it will be necessary to schedule some clinical rotations on evenings, weekends, and holidays.  Twelve-hour shifts will be used in most rotations.  Please begin now to advise employers, spouses etc. of this possibility.  The number of required hours for each clinic course meets or exceeds the minimum required hours mandated by The Higher Education Coordinating Board of Texas (THECB) in the Workforce Education Course Manual (WECM).

   Note:        In addition to these hours, each student is required to document attending at least 32 hours of seminars and participating in at least 4 hours of community service activities prior to graduation.

Evaluation and Grading

Clinical performance will be evaluated both objectively and subjectively.  Objective grading will include, but not be limited to, testing, clinical procedure check lists, objective check lists, case study reports, written reports, and time records.  Subjective grading will include, but not be limited to, evaluation from hospital clinical instructors and faculty.

Hospital clinical instructors will complete a rotation specific evaluation each day in clinic.  Be aware that the Amarillo College faculty reserves the right to alter these evaluations as deemed appropriate.

Students are responsible for assuring that all check lists, time records, written work and other clinical records are entered into the internet-based time and record-keeping system or given to the Director of Clinical Education.  The student is responsible for correcting any deficiencies in these records.

Requirements for clinical courses can be found in the grade requirements document provided for each course. Failure to complete all requirements by the assigned deadline will result in a grade of F for the course.

Falsification of any clinical records will automatically result in a failing grade for the course and will severely jeopardize your chances of completing the program.

Student Exploitation

Students will not receive clinical credit for hours worked on the job in a paying situation. Clinical sites do not pay students for any portion of their clinical experience. While it is important for students to receive adequate exposure and experience, students are not to replace workers or be used in place of staff members at sites.

Inclement Weather

In the event Amarillo College is closed due to inclement weather, the student will not be required to attend clinic, nor will a make-up clinic day be needed.  If already at clinic when classes are canceled, it will be the student’s decision to either stay or leave.  If the decision is made to stay, the day may not be substituted for another scheduled clinic day.  If the decision is made to leave, the student may not use this as a reason for failure to complete the clinical objectives.  If AC does not cancel classes and clinic is not attended, it will be counted as an absence.

Social Networking Policy for Students

The Social Networking Policy for Respiratory Care students was developed to provide students with guidance that will enable them to enjoy the benefits of social media while avoiding violations in confidentiality, privacy and professional boundaries.

Supportive Information:

1. Social media or networks are Internet sites that provide a way for people to communicate with each other. Social networking is the process or practice of using social networks to create and maintain relationships among individuals, groups, organizations, and communities. (Anderson & Puckrin, 2011). Examples of sites include but are not limited to SnapChat, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, YouTube, LinkedIn, CaringBridge, Picasa and Classmates
2. Social networking can be helpful to students by assisting them to make connections with classmates with similar interests and goals, to form study groups, and to meet other students, faculty, and staff (Walden, 2011).
3. Students have an ethical and legal obligation to understand that online content and behavior has the potential to either enhance or undermine the health care profession (AARC Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct, 2012).
4. Students must understand that they are placing their future careers at risk when they divulge information about patients or the patient’s family on the Internet. A boundary violation can also occur if offensive language and bullying behavior is used or intimate photos or images are uploaded on social networking sites (AARC Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct, 2012; International Council for Respiratory Care Code of Ethics).
5. Amarillo College expects high standards of conduct from its students. Unacceptable conduct is defined as an action or behavior that is contrary to the best interest of others (Amarillo College, Student Rights and Responsibilities Student Code of Conduct).
6. Students must be courteous and use common sense when using information technology to communicate with other individuals at Amarillo College. Using Amarillo College’s information technology resources to harass, threaten, slur, embarrass, libel, slander, or demean other individuals is explicitly prohibited (Amarillo College, Policy for Appropriate Use of Information Technology by Faculty, Staff and Students, 2011).
7. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times, not only in interaction with patients, but also with peers, faculty, and staff. Students represent the health care profession and must assume responsibilities toward society, which is delineated in the AARC Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

How to Avoid Problems with Social Networking:

1. Remember that standards of professionalism are the same electronically as in any other circumstance.
2. Remember that future employers may view posted information. Unprofessional conduct or language will cause a poor reflection on the student.
3. Be careful what personal information is shared. Information may subsequently be shared with others without the students’ knowledge or consent.
4. Be kind and courteous to others when engaging in social networking.
5. Consider blocking access to the students’ site by others who post inappropriately.
6. Be sure to promptly report to faculty a violation in professional boundaries, confidentiality, and privacy.
7. Be sure the following principles for Social Networking are understood in order to avoid HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) violations:

• Health Care Givers (HCG) and students must not transmit or place online individually identifiable patient information.
• HCGs and students should take advantage of privacy settings and seek to separate personal and professional information online.
• HCGs and students must observe ethically prescribed professional patient-therapist boundaries.
• HCGs and students should bring content that could harm a patient’s privacy, rights, or welfare to the attention of appropriate authorities.
• HCGs and students should understand that patients, colleagues, institutions, and employers may view postings.
• HCGs and students should participate in developing institutional policies governing online conduct.

STUDENTS WHO FAIL TO ABIDE BY THE FOLLOWING SOCIAL NETWORKING POLICY WILL BE SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINARY ACTION INCLUDING DISMISSAL FROM THE RESPIRATORY CARE PROGRAM:

1. Do not identify patients by name or post information that may lead to their identification including but not limited to initials, age, gender, social status, name of health care agency, diagnosis, specific tests or procedures performed and physical and/or psychological condition. Identifying patients and family members would be a serious violation of the HIPAA. It is possible that someone could identify the patient and the patient’s family based on context.
2. Do not take photos or videos of patients or their family members on personal devices, including cell phones. Students are strictly prohibited from transmitting by way of any electronic media any patient-related image.
3. Do not have online contact with patients or their family members. Online contact with patients or their family members is a boundary violation. The fact that a patient or family member may initiate contact does not permit the student to engage in a personal relationship with patients and/or their family members.
4. Students must understand that they are placing their future careers at risk when they divulge information about patients or the patient’s family on the Internet. A boundary violation can also occur if offensive language and bullying behavior is used or intimate photos or images are uploaded on social networking sites.
5. Amarillo College expects high standards of conduct from its students. Unacceptable conduct is defined as an action or behavior that is contrary to the best interest of others (see Amarillo College Student Rights and Responsibilities Student Code of Conduct).
6. Students must be courteous and use common sense when using information technology to communicate with other individuals at Amarillo College. Using Amarillo College’s information technology resources to harass, threaten, slur, embarrass, libel, slander, or demean other individuals is explicitly prohibited (Amarillo College, Policy for Appropriate Use of Information Technology by Faculty, Staff and Students, 2011).
7. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times, not only in interaction with patients, but also with peers, faculty, and staff. Students represent the Respiratory Care profession and must assume responsibilities toward society, which is delineated in the AARC Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

Grading Criteria

For a grade of C students must:

1. Successfully complete all objectives and clinical hours and obtain the instructor’s signature on both Completion of Clinical Objectives form.
2. Verify the required number of physician contact points.
3. Complete a Journal entry for each rotation, one before Spring Break and one after Spring Break.
4. Maintain passing scores on 80% of performance evaluations completed by hospital personnel and/or clinical instructors with less than 5 “Needs Improvements” marked during the semester.
5. Have no more than 2 absences during the semester and follow the proper procedure as described in the AC Respiratory Care Student Handbook for notifying both clinical affiliates and clinical instructors of absences.
6. Have no more than 1 schedule changes during the semester and follow the proper procedure as described in the AC Respiratory Care Student Handbook for rescheduling.
7. Complete evaluations of all assigned rotations and selected adjunct instructors.
8. Turn in all documentation within 1 week of the completion date for that rotation.  Failure to do so will result in a drop of 1 letter grade.  Documentation from the final clinic rotation is due by noon (1200) on Tuesday of Final Week.**
    

For a grade of B in RSPT 1166 students must:

1. Successfully complete all objectives and clinical hours and obtain the instructor’s signature on both Completion of Clinical Objectives form.
2. Verify the required number of physician contact points.
3. Complete a Journal entry for each rotation, one before Spring Break and one after Spring Break.
4. Maintain passing scores on 90% performance evaluations completed by hospital personnel and/or clinical instructors with less than 3 “Needs Improvements” marked during the semester.
5. Have no more than 1 absence during the semester and follow the proper procedure as described in the AC Respiratory Care Student Handbook for notifying both clinical affiliates and clinical instructors of absences.
6. Have no more than 1 schedule changes during the semester and follow the proper procedure as described in the AC Respiratory Care Student Handbook for rescheduling.
7. Complete evaluations of all assigned rotations and selected adjunct instructors.
8. Turn in all documentation within 1 week of the completion date for that rotation.  Failure to do so will result in a drop of 1 letter grade.  Documentation from the final clinic rotation is due by noon (1200) on Tuesday of Final Week.**

For a grade of A in students must:

1. Successfully complete all objectives and clinical hours and obtain the instructor’s signature on both Completion of Clinical Objectives form.
2. Verify the required number of physician contact points.
3. Complete a Journal entry for each rotation, one before Spring Break and one after Spring Break.
4. Maintain passing scores on all performance evaluations completed by hospital personnel and/or clinical instructors with no “Needs Improvements” marked during the semester.
5. Have no more than 1 absence during the semester.
6. Have no more than 1 schedule change during the semester.
7. Complete evaluations of all assigned rotations and selected adjunct instructors.
8. Turn in all documentation within 1 week of the completion date for that rotation.  Failure to do so will result in a drop of 1 letter grade.  Documentation from the final clinic rotation is due by noon (1200) on Tuesday of Final Week.**

** Documentation for the semester should include: all objective sheets, 10 student evaluations completed in Trajecsys by each preceptor, 4-6 preceptor evaluations completed by each student in Trajecsys, 2 rotation evaluations completed by each student in Trajecsys, and 2 journal entries completed by each student in Blackboard, completed time in Trajecsys, and a paper time sheet if needed.

Attendance

Regular attendance in RSPT 1166 is necessary to gain proficiency in respiratory care procedures. Cases of excessive absences will be handled on an individual basis and will require a counseling session.  Following this session, a departmental counseling form will be placed in the student's file.  The purpose of this form is to document that the student has been made aware that excessive absences are jeopardizing successful completion of the clinical course.

Any time it becomes necessary to miss a scheduled clinical shift, the proper procedure for notifying both the clinical affiliate and the clinical instructor must be followed as described in the AC Respiratory Care Student Handbook.  It will then be the student's responsibility to reschedule the missed hours through the instructor in charge of that rotation.  Failure to follow the proper procedure or reschedule missed clinical shifts will result in a grade of F for the course.   All missed clinical hours must be rescheduled.

Students attending clinic at all clinic sites will be required to clock in and out using Trajecsys either on a cell phone (location services must be enabled) or a computer.  In the event that Trajecsys experiences a failure, the student MUST notify the clinical instructor and MUST obtain the lead therapist's signature on a paper time sheet which can be found in and printed from Blackboard.  Missed time punches in Trajecsys are unacceptable.  Three missed time punches or entered time exceptions will be counted as one absent clinic day.

Calendar

Additional Information

• bronchoscopy
• C-section
• chest tube insertion
• trans-esophageal echogram
• elective cardioversion
• conscious sedation
• thoracentesis
• hospital-inservice (during which a CERT is given for therapists)

In the event that more than one (1) Physician Lecture is missed, the final clinic grade will be dropped one (1) letter grade for each unattended lecture.

There will be a penalty imposed for late arrivals to Physician Lecture, outlined in the following table:

Arrival Time           Required make-up
1300 - 1314           Attendance of 1 procedure from the list above
1315 - 1329           Attendance of 2 procedures from the list above
1330 or later          Attendance of 3 procedures from the list above

All Physician Contact must be documented on the Physician Contact form.

Evaluation of Rotation and Adjunct Preceptors

At the end of each clinical rotation, students are required to complete an evaluation of the rotation and 2-3 adjunct instructors. This is part of a continuous program evaluation required by the accrediting organization, the Committee on Accreditation of Respiratory Care (CoARC).

Remediation Policy

Remediation is required if a student is not judged to be performing at the program's expected levels of competence.  Unsatisfactory performance may be indicated on the Student Evaluations or in other written communications between Adjunct Faculty and the student.  Remediation will be required when any rating on the Student Evaluations is a "Does Not Meet Objective". Based on this information, a remedial plan will be developed by the Director of Clinical Education, to include, but not be limited to:

• counseling sessions
• review of procedures
• laboratory practice
• supervised demonstration

Once the student has remediated to the satisfaction of the DCE, the student may re-enter the clinic.