Respiratory Care Program

Transcription

1 Respiratory Care Program ADMISSION & APPLICATION FOR FALL Application Deadline: Class Begins: First Friday in May August For more information IRSC Information Call Center Rev 2/15

2 IRSC OVERVIEW INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE is a public, comprehensive college, ranked as one of the best in the nation for its commitment to student success. The College is a national Top Ten Finalist for the prestigious Aspen Prize and ranked as the 9 th top public regional college in the South by U.S. News and World Report. Over 30,000 people enroll in IRSC courses each year, attracted by its quality, convenience and affordable tuition. IRSC was designated as the 4 th Most Affordable College in the country by the U.S. Department of Education two years in a row, and IRSC students benefit from many scholarship and financial aid opportunities. Every aspect of IRSC is focused on helping students succeed with small classes, an array of student support services, convenient campuses, and online courses. IRSC has been selected as an Achieving the Dream TM college and recognized for its support of students from enrollment to employment. IRSC offers over 150 programs, including Bachelor s degrees, Associate in Arts degrees for continuing education at IRSC or a university, Associate in Science degrees for in-demand careers after two years of training, short-term certificate programs and Quick Job Training. EE/EO Statement Indian River State College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or genetic information in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Adriene B. Jefferson Dean of Minority Affairs/Equity Officer/Title IX Coordinator IRSC Main Campus 3209 Virginia Ave. Fort Pierce, FL (772)

3 Program Accreditation The Indian River State College Respiratory Care Program Associate in Science Degree Fort Pierce, Florida is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care ( Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care 1248 Harwood Road Bedford, Texas Program# In addition, the IRSC College Catalog and program websites are readily available and accurately depict: a. purpose and goals of the program(s); b. admission requirements and procedures; c. degree and program completion requirements; d. faculty, with degrees held and the conferring institution; e. tuition, fees, and other program costs including policies and procedures for refund and withdrawal; f. financial aid programs; g. national and/or state requirements for eligibility for licensure or entry into the occupation or profession for which education and training are offered; h. skill and competencies that students will need at the time of admission to the program

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS The Respiratory Therapist... 1 Application Checklist... 1 Introduction... 2 Application Process... 2 Information Sessions... 3 Application Deadline Date... 3 Applicant Review... 3 Criteria for Selection... 4 Acceptance into Program... 5 Background Check/Drug Screen... 5 Non-Acceptance into Program... 6 Program Expenses... 6 Financial Aid/Scholarships... 6 Frequently Asked Questions... 6 Program Curriculum... 7 Performance Standards Form... 8 Health Science Division Student Handbook Rev 2/15

5 The following items are found in the Health Science Division Student Handbook. (This list has been updated as of 5/5/14.) 1. Health Science Division Purpose Statement 2. Health Science Statement of Ethics 3. Health Science Plagiarism Regulation 4. /Contact Information 5. Health Science Use of Electronic Regulation 6. Health Science Confidentiality Statement 7. Health Science Grading 8. Health Science Retention Regulation 9. Health Science Probation Regulation 10. Health Science Readmission and Dismissal Regulation 11. Health Science Complaint Guidelines 12. Health Science Liability, Accident and Insurance Regulation 13. Health Requirements 14. Indian River State College Health Science Post Exposure Protocol 15. Health Science Background Check Regulation 16. Health Science Substance Abuse Regulation Rev 2/15

6 THE RESPIRATORY THERAPIST Under medical direction, the respiratory therapist is responsible for the administration of medical gases, humidity and aerosol therapy, breathing treatments including airway management, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), continuous mechanical ventilation and diagnostic procedures. The respiratory therapist is directly involved in all aspects of cardiopulmonary care from routine therapy to life-threatening emergencies with a patient population that ranges from newborns to senior citizens. APPLICATION CHECKLIST Note: This is a selective admission program. All requirements must be complete for application consideration. Necessary forms can be found in the back of this application booklet. 1. Complete the Indian River State College Application for Admission online at 2. Submit a Health Science Program Application online at and pay the application fee. Fees are non-refundable. 3. Request high school, former school and/or college(s) to forward transcript(s) to Admissions Office at IRSC. (Must be received by application deadline.) 4. Submit a copy of your healthcare practitioner certification/license to the Health Science Division by the application deadline. Completion of this application alone does not guarantee acceptance into the Respiratory Care program. Students are selected on a competitive basis

7 INTRODUCTION The A.S. Degree program in Respiratory Care provides students with the knowledge and clinical experiences related to the profession of Respiratory Care and includes training students in the use of medical gases, medication, aerosols, chest physiotherapy, airway management, mechanical ventilation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The curriculum, which is consistent with the National Board for Respiratory Care exam matrix, includes classroom lecture, lab experiences and clinical experience at local hospitals. Upon successful completion of the National Board Respiratory Care exams, the graduate will be awarded the Registered Respiratory Therapist (R.R.T.) credential. NOTE: If at any time during the application process you have a change of address or need to update other personal information, submit this information to the Educational Services Department or any IRSC campus. This will expedite notification of acceptance status. APPLICATION PROCESS Any candidate who wishes to be considered for a Health Science program at Indian River State College must complete the procedures outlined on the checklist on page 1. It is the student's responsibility to see that admission requirements are met. No notices will be sent. 1. Complete an IRSC Application for Admission online at for the Health Science program. 2. Complete the Health Science Program Application online at and pay the $30 application fee by the program application deadline. a. Go to the IRSC website at wwww.irsc.edu b. Log into MYIRSC c. Click Register & Pay d. Sign in using your Student I.D. and pin number e. Go to Registration (blue menu bar) and select Health Science Application f. Place a check mark in the I Agree statement g. In the Health Science Program box, select Respiratory Care. Application Deadline: this automatically fills in the program deadline date. h. Select Submit. Select OK i. Select Pay Fee Now and then PAY NOW j. Select process for payment k. Select $30 application fee l. Enter credit card details m. Submit Payment Students can log into MyIRSC at to check the status of their application. 3. Submit official transcripts from high school and all previous colleges or universities attended to Educational Services by the program application deadline

8 All applicants will be notified of their status approximately six to eight weeks after the deadline date through RiverMail. No information is available by telephone. To finalize acceptance once notified of provisional acceptance, students will be required to have a completed IRSC physical examination form, a negative drug screen report and a FDLE background check. INFORMATION SESSIONS Students interested in applying to any health science program should plan to attend the appropriate, regularly scheduled, program information session for direction and assistance with the application process prior to the application deadline date. The information session addresses any questions or concerns prospective applicants may have. The session also assists students in understanding how to achieve a qualified applicant status. No reservations or fees are required to attend. Respiratory Care Information Sessions are held at the Main Campus in Fort Pierce Mary L. Fields Health Science Center 1 st Tuesday of each month Building H, Room 111 1:00 p.m. APPLICATION DEADLINE DATE Application Deadline Class Begins Fall Program First Friday in May August APPLICANT REVIEW Final consideration for admission into the Respiratory Care program will be based upon the Health Science Admissions Committee review and scoring of the following criteria: 1. IRSC Admission Status must be complete. 2. Application to Health Science Division must be filed and paid IRSC and College Cumulative GPA 4. General education coursework and Certification/Licensure (see page 7 for information) Students are selected on a competitive basis using a score and ranking system. For information on obtaining the highest possible score by deadline date, contact the Health Science Program Coordinator at Note: Meeting admission criteria does not guarantee acceptance into the program. Students are selected on a competitive basis

9 CRITERIA FOR SELECTION Academic performance in the general education courses for the A.S. Degree in Respiratory Care and cumulative college grade point average are indicative of the probability of an applicant s completing the academic portion of the program successfully. It is recommended that students complete as many of the following courses as possible, especially math and science, before applying to the program. In addition to previously stated admission requirements, selection is based on grades achieved in the courses listed below. Students are selected based on a point system (see below). Applications are selected based on these scores until all seats are filled. Certified/Licensed Healthcare Practitioners = 10 points (RN, LPN, or Paramedic) Certified/Licensed Healthcare Practitioners = 5 points (CNA, MA, or EMT) A = 4 points B = 3 points C = 2 points COURSE POINTS WEIGHT # CREDITS X POINTS TOTAL PHY MAT BSC BSC 2093L 2 BSC BSC 2094L 2 PSY Certified/Licensed Heathcare Practitioner TOTAL Subject to change All of the applicant review criteria must be met by the application deadline or the applicant file will not be reviewed and scored. The most qualified (highest scores) are selected

10 ACCEPTANCE INTO PROGRAM The Health Science Division will notify those applicants who have met minimum acceptable scores of their provisional acceptance into the program through RiverMail. Final acceptance into the program is contingent upon satisfactory results from a physical examination, drug screen and background check. Information on obtaining these tests/reports will be provided in the provisional acceptance notification package. These reports should not be submitted with initial application materials. LATEX ADVISORY- For those individuals with sensitivities, applicants must be aware that latex-based products are used in all health care facilities. Drug Screening Refer to the IRSC website Click Program & Careers and then Health Science Programs. In the Resources box, select Drug/Background Checks. Criminal Background Check Refer to the IRSC website Click Program & Careers and then Health Science Programs. In the Resources box, select Drug/Background Checks. Health/Medical Record A completed medical health form must also be submitted and approved by the Program Director. This health record will contain results from a physical examination and laboratory tests including immunization records. The form is located on the IRSC website at Click Programs and Careers and then Health Science Programs. In the Resources box, select Health Science Physical Examination and Immunization Form. Applicants who do not meet the standards of good physical and mental health, as required by clinical facilities for safe patient care, may reapply and be considered for application to a Health Science program after resolution of the health problem. An updated health record, verified by a licensed physician, physician s assistant or an ARNP must be submitted. Indian River State College and partnering clinical sites require all health science students who register for clinical courses to have personal health insurance. Students will be asked to show proof of personal health insurance by presenting their insurance policy number, the name of the insurance provider and the telephone number of the provider to clinical preceptors or administrators. If students do not have health insurance or do not provide proof of health insurance, they will not be eligible for clinic rotation which will result in termination from program. Personal health insurance may be purchased through the Health and Wellness Department. Call them at (772) for more information. Student Drug Screen, Background Check, And Medical Records When submitted, these records will become the property of the College, and will not be available for copying or for use to meet the requirements of outside employers. Students who are out of the program for six months or more must submit new records

11 Grievance/Complaint Procedure Refer to the Academic Review/Admission Policy in the IRSC Student Handbook/Planner. NON-ACCEPTANCE INTO PROGRAM Applicants who are not qualify for the program will be notified and should remediate (call the ASC at (772) , for a list of remediation classes) or call the Office of the Dean of Health Science (772) for clarification on how to strengthen their application. PROGRAM EXPENSES A list of approximate costs is located on the IRSC website at Click Programs & Careers and then Health Science Programs. Click Respiratory Care. In the Application Book box, select Program Expenses. In addition to these costs, the candidate should allow for room, board, transportation and personal living expenses. Note that non-florida resident tuition is a higher rate per credit hour, which will increase total fees accordingly. FINANCIAL AID/SCHOLARSHIPS Financial Aid (grants, loans, work-study) is available to those who qualify. Complete the FAFSA and IRSC Supplemental Financial Aid Application to determine eligibility. For more information, contact the IRSC Financial Aid Office at (772) or toll free at (FAID). Scholarships designated for students in the Health Science programs may also be available. Complete the IRSC STARS online Scholarship Application ( Health Science scholarship deadlines will be posted on the website. For more information, or to request a scholarship application, contact the IRSC Foundation office at (772) , or toll-free at , ext Scholarship applications are also available online at FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What will the program prepare me to do? Upon completion of the two-year program, the graduate will have earned the Associate in Science Degree in Respiratory Care and be immediately eligible to sit for the NBRC exam. What are the duties of a Respiratory Therapist? Under medical direction, the respiratory therapist is responsible for the administration of medical gases, humidity and aerosol therapy, breathing treatments including airway management, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), continuous mechanical ventilation and diagnostic procedures. The respiratory therapist is directly involved in all aspects of cardiopulmonary care from routine therapy to life-threatening emergencies with a patient population that ranges from newborns to senior citizens. What are the Core Performance Standards for Admission and Progression in the Respiratory Care Program? See page

12 What are the Competency Requirements for the Provision of Respiratory Therapy Services? See page 13. How do I become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)? Graduates of the two-year program must first take and pass the Entry-Level Respiratory Therapy Exam. Then the individual must sit for the Written Registry and Clinical Simulation Examinations. It is necessary to pass all three exams in order to obtain the registered respiratory therapist credential, R.R.T. What is the job outlook? There is a GREAT demand for respiratory therapy professionals, both locally and nationally, with beginning salaries and benefits that reflect this demand. When will I begin clinical training? Students will begin training for clinics in the first semester. Students will be assigned to area hospitals for clinical rotations involving direct patient care beginning in the second semester of the program. Clinical training will continue for the duration of the program, with students spending hours per week at an affiliated clinical site. Is financial aid available? Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. If you have any questions concerning loans or scholarships, contact the IRSC Financial Aid Office at for St. Lucie Counties; or toll-free at from Martin, Indian River or Okeechobee counties. Who should I contact for clarification or further information? Plan to attend a Respiratory Care Information Session (see page 3) with specific questions or concerns. Contact Educational Services at (772) (St. Lucie County), or toll-free at (866) , extension 7800, or Georgette Rosenfeld, Department Chair, Respiratory Care program at (772) or use the toll-free number with extension RESPIRATORY CARE PROGRAM CURRICULUM (76 CREDITS) SELECTIVE ADMISSION Refer to the IRSC website at Click Program and Careers and then Health Science Programs. Choose Respiratory Care. In the Application Book box, select Program Schedule. All core curriculum and natural science courses require a grade of C or higher. Note: Student must demonstrate competency in the basic use of computers. See Catalog

13 CORE PERFORMANCE/TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR ADMISSION AND PROGRESSION Respiratory care involves the provision of direct care for individuals and is characterized by the application of knowledge in the skillful performance of cardiopulmonary functions. Therefore, in order to be considered for admissions or be retained in the program after admission, all students must be able to demonstrate the following abilities: Technical Standards The following technical standards explain attributes necessary to complete the educational programs in Respiratory Care. The College will consider any applicant who demonstrates the ability to perform, or to learn to perform, the skills listed here. An applicant with concerns about these technical standards is strongly encouraged to discuss the issue with the director of the Respiratory Care program. An applicant is not required to disclose the nature of any disability. If appropriate, and upon request from the applicant, reasonable accommodations for a disability may be provided. Standards A. Observation 1. The student must be able to observe and participate in lectures, demonstrations, research and practice situations in nursing. 2. The student must be able to observe health assessments and interventions, diagnostic procedures and waveform readings to determine a client s condition and the effect of therapy. 3. Observation necessitates the functional use of vision, hearing, tactile and somatic senses. B. Communication 1. The student must be able to communicate clearly and effectively in English with patients, teachers and all members of the health care team. Written and oral communication must use standard, professional medical terminology. 2. The student must communicate with patients clearly and effectively in English to elicit information regarding history, emotional status and activity, and to perceive nonverbal communications. 3. Communication includes speech, hearing, reading, writing and computer literacy. 4. The student must be able to clearly and effectively report in English to members of the health care team. Additionally, students must be able to relay appropriate information to patients, as well as teach, explain, and direct wide variety of individuals. 5. In some instances the student will be required to provide clear, direct communication in English during highly stressful, crisis situations. These skills necessitate a strong command of the English language and prompt, timely interpretation of pertinent patient data. 6. The student must be able to communicate online in a timely, professional manner, e.g., enter an electronic medical record immediately after the patient visit

14 C. Motor Abilities 1. The student must have sufficient gross and fine motor skills, physical endurance, physical strength, mobility, vision, tactile abilities and sense of smell to carry out nursing procedures and to operate equipment safely. 2. The student must have sufficient fine motor skills and overall motor function to perform skills that require steady and purposeful movement, e.g. arterial puncture. 3. The student must be able to execute motor movements reasonably required in a prompt, timely fashion in order to provide routine and emergency care to patients. a. Examples of emergency treatments required of students to be done in a prompt, timely fashion include but are not limited to: cardiopulmonary resuscitation obtainment & interpretation of vital signs opening of airways notification of a change in patient status to the appropriate provider institution of life support b. Examples of routine treatments required of students to be done in a reasonable, timely fashion include but are not limited to: administration of scheduled and as needed medications obtainment of vital signs oxygen Therapy nebulizer Therapy chest physio Therapy Bipap/Cpap D. Intellectual, Conceptual, Integrative and Quantitative Abilities 1. The student must be able to read and understand written documents in English and to solve problems involving measurement, calculation, reasoning, memory, analysis and synthesis. 2. The student must be able to synthesize knowledge, integrate and prioritize all aspects of patient care in a prompt, timely fashion. This includes synthesis of objective and subjective findings and diagnostic studies. 3. The student must be able to integrate concepts of pathophysiology, pharmacology and fundamentals of respiratory care in order to formulate a cohesive plan of care for desired patient outcomes appropriate to each clinical setting. 4. The student must be able to use this information to identify and develop a diagnosis, establish priorities and monitor treatment plans and care modalities. 5. The student must be able comprehend three dimensional and spatial relationships. 6. The student must be able to incorporate data from multiple patient sources (e.g. physical assessment, vital signs, lab values, interdisciplinary documentation) in a prompt manner in order to provide appropriate, safe patient care. 7. The student must be able to recognize and respond rapidly and safely to changes in a patient s status based on a variety of sources such as physical assessment and pertinent laboratory findings. The student must be able to revise care to promote appropriate patient outcomes

15 E. Physical / Sensory Capabilities 1. The student must be able to sufficiently move from room to room and maneuver in small places, patient rooms, treatment areas and administer cardiopulmonary procedures. 2. The student must be able to distinguish between sounds such as hearing blood pressure accurately, hear alarms, emergency signals and auscultatory sounds. 3. The student must be able to see clearly both near and far and sufficiently for observation and assessment necessary in health care such as observe patient responses and prepare and administer medications accurately. 4. The student must have sufficient stamina to provide patient care and related responsibilities for extended periods of time (12 hours) to adapt to shift work and lift without restrictions from a standing position. F. Behavioral and Social Abilities 1. The student must have the capacity to demonstrate full utilization of his/her intellectual abilities, emotional stability, exercise good judgment under stressful, crisis and non crisis situations and promptly complete all responsibilities pertinent to the diagnosis and care of clients in a variety of settings. 2. The student must have the capacity to develop mature, sensitive and effective therapeutic relationships with patients in a variety of settings and from different cultures. Individual patient care must be performed regardless of the patient s race, ethnic group, age, gender, religious or political preference, ability to pay, gender or sexual orientation. 3. The student must be able to tolerate physically and mentally taxing workloads and function effectively under stress. 4. The student must be able to exhibit a level of consciousness and attentiveness that guarantees patient safety. Examples of unacceptable compromise include excessive somnolence, memory impairment, or an inability to retain pertinent details of a patient s situation. 5. As a component of health science education, the student must demonstrate ethical behavior, including adherence to the professional code of academic and clinical conduct. 6. Although student safety is of utmost importance, the student will be exposed to a variety of communicable pathogens and is expected to care for patients with communicable diseases using appropriate standard precautions and/or guidelines. G. Health and Related Requirements 1. The student is required to provide current proof of having met all health related requirements prior to participating in any clinical activities. The student is responsible for maintaining all personal health records including current immunizations, CPR (American Heart Association BLS for Health Care Providers), and health insurance. 2. All entering students are required to complete a background check prior to entering the Respiratory Care program and as requested throughout the program in compliance with the affiliation agreement for the clinical agency and community standards for disqualifying offenses. This may include a drug screen to comply with a clinical agency requirement

16 3. The student may be required to complete a physical exam in compliance with clinical agency affiliation agreement. 4. Certain chronic or recurrent illnesses and problems that could interfere with patient care or safety may be incompatible with health science education or practice. Some illnesses may lead to a higher likelihood of student absences and should carefully be considered. Deficiencies in knowledge, judgment, integrity or professional attitude may jeopardize patient care, and as a result could become grounds for course failure and possible dismissal from the Respiratory Care program

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18 3209 Virginia Avenue, Fort Pierce, Florida Health Science Division Student Handbook (Rev. 5/14)

19 INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE This is to acknowledge that I have received my personal copy of the Health Science Division Student Handbook; I have read and understand its contents. I agree to abide by its regulations. I understand that this form needs to be submitted to the Program Department Chair prior to the first week of school (during program orientation). I agree to have my educational, health and background records and social security number (see reverse side) released to professional organizations/health care agencies requesting that information as part of placement at any agency. I agree to have information regarding my attendance and performance released for financial aid purposes. I understand that I may not participate in any Health Science program until I have all my records (health, CPR, health insurance, drug screen and background checks) on file in the Health Science Department and that these records must be kept updated, or I could be withdrawn from the program. I understand that orientation to health care facilities is mandatory. Absence for any reason may result in withdrawal from the course. I understand that information disclosed to me for the patient s privacy is protected by state and federal law. State law prohibits me from making any disclosure of medical information without the specific written consent of the person to whom such information pertains, or as otherwise permitted by federal, state or local law. Changes may be made to departmental, division or college policies/regulations at any time. Should a change occur, students will be notified verbally and in writing as to what the change entails and the date it will take effect. Students will be given a copy of the change to keep for their records and one to sign which will be included in their file. SIGNATURE PRINT NAME DATE (Rev. 5/14)

20 NOTIFICATION OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER COLLECTION AND USAGE In compliance with Florida Statute (5), this document serves to notify you of the purpose for the collection and usage of your Social Security number by Indian River State College (IRSC). IRSC collects and uses your Social Security number only if specifically authorized by law to do so or it is imperative for the performance of its duties and responsibilities as prescribed by law. Specifically, IRSC collects your Social Security number for the following purposes: Admissions Department Federal legislation relating to the Hope Tax Credit makes it mandatory that all postsecondary institutions report student Social Security numbers to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This IRS requirement makes it mandatory for colleges to collect the Social Security number of every student. A student may refuse to disclose his or her Social Security number to IRSC, but the IRS is then authorized to fine the student in the amount of $50. In addition to the federal reporting requirements, the public school system in Florida uses Social Security numbers as a student identifier (Florida Statutes ). In a seamless K-20 system it is non-mandatory; however, it is beneficial for postsecondary institutions to have access to the same information for purposes of tracking and assisting students in the smooth transition from one education level to the next. All Social Security numbers are protected by federal regulations Family Educational Rights and Privacy (FERPA). Financial Aid Department It is mandatory that the Office of Financial Aid at IRSC requires students to submit their Social Security numbers on various forms in order to correctly identify applicants, match each applicant s financial aid record with the student record, and to help coordinate state aid programs with institutional and federal aid programs as authorized by Sections 483 and 484 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. Outreach Programs Programs such as the Educational Opportunity Program and College Reach-Out Program are youth outreach projects funded by discretionary grants from the United States or Florida Departments of Education. As such, each project is required to exclusively serve eligible participants that are citizens or nationals of the United States; or are permanent residents of the United States. In order to verify a participant s project eligibility, it is mandatory that Social Security numbers are collected and also later used when submitting information for the Annual Performance Reports due to the United States or Florida Department of Education. Workforce Programs It is mandatory that these programs use Social Security numbers as an identifier for program enrollment and completion. Also, Social Security numbers are used for entering placement information into either the OSMIS or the Employ Florida Marketplace statewide data collection and reporting system. Because these are performance based contract programs, it is required that all participants and their program related activities be recorded in the Florida state system. Continuing Education, Corporate & Community Training Institute (CCTI) Because of Florida State Board of Education reporting requirements and Department of Business and Professional Regulations reporting requirements, it is mandatory for students who enroll in Continuing Education and/or CCTI courses and/or customized training seminars to submit their Social Security number. State and Federal Reporting It is mandatory that the College collects Social Security numbers to periodically report student/employee level data to federal and state agencies for research and data collection. Testing It is mandatory that the College collects Social Security numbers for the purpose of reporting state and national standardized testing results, including but not limited to: TABE, GED, FTCE, ACT, CLEP, HOBET. Miscellaneous It is mandatory to collect Social Security numbers for agency third party billings, payment collections, state and federal data collection, tracking, benefit processing, tax reporting, and for identification and verification. To protect your identity, IRSC will secure your Social Security number from unauthorized access and assign you a unique student identification number. This unique identification number will then be used for all associated employment and educational purposes at IRSC. Copies of the full IRSC Notification of Social Security Number Collection and Usage document can be obtained from Student Services at all IRSC campuses and at the IRSC website at GED is a registered trademark of the American Council on Education (ACE) and administered exclusively by GED Testing Service LLC under license. This material is not endorsed or approved by ACE or GED Testing Service. Indian River State College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or genetic information in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Adriene B. Jefferson, Dean of Minority Affairs/Equity Officer/Title IX Coordinator Indian River State College Main Campus 3209 Virginia Avenue Fort Pierce, FL (772) Revised 5/ (Rev. 5/14)

21 PREFACE The Health Science student is subject to the guidelines and regulations presented in this handbook as well as the policies in the Indian River State College Student Handbook/Planner. The provisions of this publication are not to be construed as a contract between the student and Indian River State College. The College reserves the right to change any provision or requirement when such action will serve the interests of the College or its students. The College further reserves the right to ask a student to withdraw when it considers such action to be in the best interest of the College. EE/EO Indian River State College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status or genetic information in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Adriene B. Jefferson Dean of Minority Affairs/Equity Officer/Title IX Coordinator IRSC Main Campus 3209 Virginia Ave. Fort Pierce, FL (772) (Rev. 5/14)

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23 TABLE OF CONTENTS PART PAGE I. Statement of Purpose Section 1.01 Health Science Division Purpose Statement... 1 II. Regulations & Procedures for Health Science Division Section 2.01 Health Science Statement of Ethics... 1 Section 2.02 Health Science Plagiarism Regulation... 1 Section /Contact Information... 1 Section 2.04 Health Science Use of Electronics Regulation... 2 Section 2.05 Health Science Confidentiality Statement... 2 Section 2.06 Health Science Grading... 3 Section 2.07 Health Science Retention Regulation... 3 Section 2.08 Health Science Probation Regulation... 4 Section 2.09 Health Science Readmission and Dismissal Regulation... 4 Section 2.10 Health Science Complaint Guidelines... 5 Section 2.11 Health Science Liability, Accident and Insurance Regulation... 5 Section 2.12 Health Requirements... 6 Section 2.13 Health Science Post Exposure Protocol... 8 Section 2.14 Health Science Background Check Regulation... 8 Section 2.15 Health Science Substance Abuse Regulation... 8

24 Part I Statement of Purpose Section 1.01 Health Science Division Purpose Statement The Health Science Division supports the mission of IRSC by preparing students to function effectively as members of the health care team. The Division is committed to advancing health care by providing innovative educational programs through excellence in instruction, clinical leadership and service to the health care community. Part II - Regulations & Procedures for Health Science Division All IRSC Health Science Students are expected to read and be familiar with the IRSC Student Handbook/Planner. Section 2.01 Health Science Statement of Ethics A code of ethics indicates a profession s acceptance of the responsibility and trust with which it has been vested by society. Upon entering a health care profession, each health care professional inherits a measure of both the responsibility and the trust that have accrued to health care over the years, as well as the corresponding obligation to adhere to the code of professional conduct and relationships for ethical practice. Upon entering an Indian River State College Health Science program, each student inherently agrees to accept the responsibility and trust granted to the health care profession by society. When a particular behavior is questioned, the student must be able to justify all behavior as ethical. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action which may include dismissal from the program. Section 2.02 Health Science Plagiarism Regulation Plagiarism is an act of academic dishonesty. Indian River State College Board Policy Number 6Hx Student Standards of Conduct Any student who accepts the privilege of enrollment at Indian River State College is deemed to have given his or her consent to adhere to the policies of the College and the laws of the State of Florida. Health Science Students are expected to familiarize themselves with the Plagiarism Guide provided by the IRSC Library. Section /Contact Information All students are required to activate and maintain an IRSC RiverMail account. s are to be professionally written with appropriate grammar, punctuation, correct spelling and a signature. The student is required to notify the Program Director and the College of any change in contact information. Students must check their IRSC RiverMail regularly. The College uses RiverMail for all official communication. 1

25 Section 2.04 Health Science Regulation for Use of Electronics Personal cell phone calls or responses to pagers may only be taken while on break from class, labs or clinical unit. Students using cell phones for personal calls of any type or for taking pictures in the classroom, health care laboratory or the clinical unit (unless sanctioned by the Program Director) will face disciplinary action which may include permanent dismissal. Electronic devices for reference purposes must be strictly limited to this purpose and must be approved by the agency and clinical instructor (if applicable). Students may be asked to turn off any electronic device or may be prohibited from using an electronic device at the discretion of the facility personnel or clinical instructor while in the clinical setting. Under no circumstances are audio/visual recording devices or cameras to be used in the health care setting. All cell phones, PDAs and any other technical equipment, except for laptop computers, are to be silenced or turned off and kept in a purse or bag under the student s desk. Audio recording devices may be used in the classrooms only with the instructor s permission. Serious deficiencies may include, but are not limited to, any act or failure to act which results in the following: Harm, danger or threat to a patient, student, faculty member, staff member (college or professional practice experience) or any other person Damage to or theft of college, clinical or personal property. This includes the removal of documentation containing patient identifying data elements. Any act of academic dishonesty including cheating, plagiarism, falsification of clinical or hospital records which the student either commits, solicits or assists another to commit Any act that will endanger the integrity of the program or harm the relationship between the College and any of its professional practice experience sites Unprofessional behavior Illegal activity Section 2.05 Health Science Confidentiality Statement PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION (PHI) is information you create or receive in the course of providing treatment or obtaining payment for services while engaged in health science program activities, including: information related to the past, present or future physical and/or mental health or condition of an individual and information in ANY medium whether spoken, written or electronically stored including videos, photographs and x-rays. Students are expected to treat all patient information confidentially, whether spoken, written or electronically stored. PHI is protected by federal legislation and provides strong privacy rights and preserves quality health care. A violation of these federal regulations can result in discipline, loss of health science student status, fines or imprisonment. If a disclosure of PHI is made willfully and with intent for personal gain, the penalty can be as high as a $250,000 fine and 10-year imprisonment. 2

26 Students will not under any circumstances discuss any client, hospital or staff information outside the confines of the classroom, clinical or post-conference area and/or without the direction and guidance of the respective instructor or other IRSC faculty or department supervisor. It is illegal for students to photocopy, Photographs, videotape, print or electronically transmit any part of the client s chart and/or computerized record. If at any time a student has a concern regarding an occurrence in the health care setting, the student is to discuss the concerns with the IRSC faculty. Health care agencies may require students to sign an agency confidentiality agreement prior to any experience in that facility. Failure to maintain confidentiality as outlined in this regulation will result in immediate dismissal from the Health Science program and possible legal proceedings. Section 2.06 Health Science Grading Academic standards are those measures by which the faculty of the program determines a student s quality of performance. They are composed of guidelines for advancement in the program as well as the regulations for grading, probation/requested withdrawal and dismissal. The course grading scale is found on the course syllabus. Grading Regulation 1. Students must achieve a minimum of "C" for the final grade in all Health Science major courses that are required for completion of the program. 2. A student must complete minimal performance standards in laboratory prior to progressing to the next level of academia or performing those skills in a clinical setting. Section 2.07 Health Science Retention Regulation Retention of students is a high priority for IRSC, and the College commits significant resources towards these efforts. The faculty believe that education is a growth process, which places responsibility for learning on the individual. To best prepare for success in a Health Science program, students should utilize all available resources including recommended texts and reference materials, computerized resources, open lab, faculty office hours, the Academic Support Center and other services outlined on the IRSC website under Student (Student Success). In an effort to assure student success, faculty will discuss remediation with students when it is deemed necessary. Whenever a student experiences academic difficulty, a student conference form is initiated and recommended actions are shared with the student. Students are required to maintain a C or better in all Health Science courses and a minimum GPA of

27 Should the student fail the course and wish to apply for reentry, the above considerations will be required, if not already completed. If completed, the student will need to submit a plan to increase his/her chance of success in future courses. The documentation of completion of any recommended remediation and the student s plan for success should be submitted to the Program Director at the same time as the application for readmission. These will be considered when evaluating the student for reentry into the program. Section 2.08 Health Science Probation Regulation The Health Science faculty will counsel and place a student on Health Science probation for any of the following reasons including, but not limited to: 1. Failure to follow College, Division and/or Health Science program regulations 2. Unprofessional conduct in classroom and/or health care agency 3. Incivility to faculty, peers and/or others 4. Unsatisfactory or marginal performance 5. Inability to function adequately with members of a health care team The student cannot register for practicum/externship/capstone if they are currently on probation unless approved by the Program Director. Repeat episodes and/or frequent infractions of any or all of the examples will result in dismissal from the program. Section 2.09 Health Science Readmission and Dismissal Regulation Written request to be readmitted/transferred into the Health Science programs should be addressed to the Program Director. Transfer students will also need to provide a letter from the Director at their current program indicating they are in good standing and are eligible to continue at the current school. The Health Science Program Director, based on the following, will make a decision of a readmission/transfer request: 1. Students who have failed (at IRSC or another institution) by placing the health and safety of patients in jeopardy will not be admitted/readmitted/transferred into a Health Science program. 2. Students requesting to transfer into a program, students who withdraw for personal/health reasons, students who withdraw with an average grade below a C or students who have failed or received a D in Health Science, general education and/or science related courses will be readmitted/transferred subject to the following: a. Submission of written request for readmission to the Program Director b. Documentation of any required remediation and student s plan for success c. Completion of course pre-requisites d. Completion of health requirements, current CPR card, updated drug and criminal background check, updated history and physical. (Must be repeated if student is out of the program longer than six months.) 4

28 e. Documentation of GPA above 2.0 (overall cumulative) f. Readmission is based on space availability. g. Student must meet all program admission criteria. 3. Any student who has not taken Health Science courses for two or more years or who is unable to complete the total program (A.S. or upper division B.A.S.) within four academic years must re-apply to the program as a new student. 4. Courses eligible for transfer credit in the program must have a minimum grade of C, have been completed within the past four years and contain the same information as the parallel course at IRSC. 5. Students may request a grade of Incomplete if more than 75% of the course has been completed and an approved hardship is documented with the Program Director. An I grade means incomplete work. The student must speak with the instructor immediately and make arrangements to complete the course within one calendar year from the time the I was earned. Otherwise, the I will convert to an F. Incomplete grades are given on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the instructor. Section 2.10 Health Science Complaint Guidelines A suggested process for resolving complaints within the Health Science Division is as follows: A student should always discuss the issues with the involved parties, e.g., Instructor/Program Director and Dean of Health Science. Academic and disciplinary decisions may be appealed. All IRSC students have the opportunity to request a formal review of their complaint following the Student Grievance Procedure outlined in the IRSC Student Handbook/Planner. Section 2.11 Health Science Liability, Accident and Health Insurance Regulation All students purchase accident and liability insurance as a component of their clinical course registration. The liability policy provides coverage while the student is participating in the activities of the program. The accident policy provides coverage while the student is participating in college-sponsored activities while on the premises designated by, and under the direct supervision of, the College. Accident insurance is not a substitute for health insurance and does not cover illness or disease. 5