Diagnostic Medical Imaging – Computed Tomography

Student Handbook

2014‐2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction/Welcome ....................................................................................................................................... 3 Program Mission and Philosophy ....................................................................................................................... 3 Health Sciences Division Policies and Procedures ............................................................................................... 4 Policies and Procedures .............................................................................................................................................4 Academic Dishonesty .................................................................................................................................................4 Program Progression ..................................................................................................................................................5 Graduation .................................................................................................................................................................5 Student Complaint Procedure....................................................................................................................................6 Smoking ......................................................................................................................................................................6 Sexual and/or Racial Harassment Complaints ...........................................................................................................6 Grade Change Policies and Procedures......................................................................................................................6 Clinical/Practicum Policies .........................................................................................................................................7 Professional Behavior ................................................................................................................................................7 Professional Ethics and Confidentiality ......................................................................................................................7 Donated Radiographic Images ...................................................................................................................................9 Safe/Unsafe Clinical/Practicum Practices ..................................................................................................................9 Placement Policy ......................................................................................................................................................10 Progressive Discipline ...............................................................................................................................................10 Health and Safety Information .................................................................................................................................12 Professional Risks .....................................................................................................................................................12 Health Insurance ......................................................................................................................................................12 Flu Vaccine ...............................................................................................................................................................12 TB Testing and CPR Requiements ............................................................................................................................12 Accidents/Exposure .................................................................................................................................................13 Accident Procedues..................................................................................................................................................13 Exposure Response ..................................................................................................................................................14 HIPAA .......................................................................................................................................................................15 HIPAA Breach and Notification Process ...................................................................................................................15 Latex Allergy .............................................................................................................................................................15 Substance Abuse Policy (Suspicion-Based Drug Testing) .........................................................................................16 Drug Screening .........................................................................................................................................................17 Criminal Background ................................................................................................................................................19 Emergency Instructions............................................................................................................................................19 Family Education Rights and Privacy Act ..................................................................................................................21 computed tomography Program Outcomes/Goals/Objectives ......................................................................... 22 Scans Competencies ......................................................................................................................................... 22 1.0 Resources ......................................................................................................................22 2.0 Interpersonal.................................................................................................................22 3.0 Information ...................................................................................................................22 4.0 Systems .........................................................................................................................22 5.0 Technology ....................................................................................................................23 6.0 Basic skills......................................................................................................................23 7.0 Thinking skills ................................................................................................................23 8.0 Personal qualities ..........................................................................................................23 Program Policies and Information .................................................................................................................... 24 Admission Requirements 2014 ................................................................................................................................24 Health Data Requirements .......................................................................................................................................24 Technical Standards and Essential Functions ...........................................................................................................24 Immunizations ..........................................................................................................................................................26 Certificate Plan .........................................................................................................................................................26 Fall Semester ............................................................................................................................................................27

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Transfer of College Credit.........................................................................................................................................27 Transcript Review .....................................................................................................................................................28 Program Policies ............................................................................................................................................... 28 Grading/Grading System ..........................................................................................................................................28 Challenge Exam Policy ..............................................................................................................................................29 Employment .............................................................................................................................................................29 Electronic Communication/Devices .........................................................................................................................29 Email .........................................................................................................................................................................30 Inclement Weather ..................................................................................................................................................30 Academic Integrity ...................................................................................................................................................30 Course Test Review Procedure.................................................................................................................................30 Safety and Health Information ......................................................................................................................... 31 Pregnancy Policy ......................................................................................................................................................31 Option #1: Leave of Absence during Pregnancy: .....................................................................................................31 Option #2: Remain in the Program with no Modifications of her Clinical or Lab Activities: ....................................32 Option #3: Remain in the Program with Modification of her Clinical and/or Lab Activities: ...................................32 Clinical/Practicum Policies ................................................................................................................................ 33 Clinical Education Information .................................................................................................................................33 Clinical Practicum Courses .......................................................................................................................................33 Clinical Practicum .....................................................................................................................................................33 Initial and Recheck Competency ..............................................................................................................................33 Clinical Performance Evaluation Protocol ................................................................................................................34 Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................34 Step 1 – Clinical Observation and Assistance ...........................................................................................................34 Step 2 – Directly Supervised Performance ...............................................................................................................34 Step 3 – Procedure Evaluation .................................................................................................................................34 Step 4 – Performance Under Limited Supervision ...................................................................................................34 Procedure Evaluation on Recheck Competency Evaluation .....................................................................................35 Student Supervision After Competency is Achieved ................................................................................................35 Clinical Rotations ......................................................................................................................................................35 Credentialing Examination .......................................................................................................................................35 Clinical Experience Requirements ............................................................................................................................36 CT Program Clinical Requirements—Fall 2014 .........................................................................................................36 Cardiac Life Support .................................................................................................................................................36 Attendance Policy ....................................................................................................................................................37 Tardies ......................................................................................................................................................................38 Picture ID’s ...............................................................................................................................................................38 Dress Code--General Information ............................................................................................................................38 Patient Care and Management ................................................................................................................................40 CT Procedures ..........................................................................................................................................................40 General Information ......................................................................................................................................... 40 Counseling/Student Services ....................................................................................................................................40 Library/Learning Resource Center (LRC) ..................................................................................................................41 Computers ................................................................................................................................................................41 Student Signature Sheet ................................................................................................................................... 42

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INTRODUCTION/WELCOME Welcome to the Diagnostic Medical Imaging-Computed Tomography program. The faculty and staff wish you success in the pursuit of your educational goals. The Austin Community College Diagnostic Medical Imaging-Computed Tomography Student Handbook has been compiled by the faculty to provide information pertinent to students enrolled in the Diagnostic Medical Imaging-CT program. The purpose of this handbook is to detail policies and procedures specific to this program. The handbook is constructed to be used as a supplement to the Austin Community College Catalog and serves to bridge the overriding policies of the College with the policies of the Health Sciences Division and those specific to this program. Adherence to program policies is expected and required. The Program reserves the right to revise and update this handbook as needed. Students will be made aware in writing of any changes in the handbook that would impact them. A copy of the Austin Community College Catalog is available at each campus’s administrative offices or you may download from the ACC website at: http://www.austincc.edu/catalog/ The Diagnostic Medical Imaging-Radiology-Computed Tomography program is just one of the programs within the Division of Health Sciences. The Health Sciences Division is comprised of the following programs: Associate Degree Nursing, Licensed Vocational Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Imaging (DMI – Radiology), Emergency Medical Services, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, Medical Coding, Medical Laboratory Technology, Surgical Technology, Pharmacy Technician, and Sonography. The Division of Health Sciences is committed to providing quality educational programs for the purpose of developing successful healthcare professionals. Developing caring, competent healthcare professionals prepared for diverse contemporary practice requires interactions with patients and patient services, thereby resulting in an educational environment with unique characteristics and requirements. The Health Sciences programs prohibit discrimination. Access to its programs or activities shall not be limited on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or disability.

PROGRAM MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY Consistent with the mission of Austin Community College, the faculty of the Diagnostic Medical Imaging program is committed to providing quality instruction by preparing the technologist to be employable at an entry level in Computed Tomography and to be successful on the National Credentialing Examination in Computed Tomography. The faculty of the Diagnostic Medical Imaging- Computed Tomography program is passionate about our profession, and dedicated to providing students the necessary instruction in technical, academic and clinical skills to become successful CT technologists. We believe all individuals are unique and dynamic individuals with inherent dignity and worth, and therefore deserving of respect. Compassion and professionalism are the hallmarks of excellent caregivers, and we adapt to the ever-changing technology in our profession.

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HEALTH SCIENCES DIVISION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The Austin Community College Health Science Division Policies and Procedures have been compiled by the Health Sciences faculty to provide information pertinent to all students in the Health Science programs. These policies and procedures should be used as a supplement to the Austin Community College Catalog and the program specific student handbook. The Health Sciences programs prohibit discrimination. Access to its programs or activities shall not be limited on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or disability. We wish you success in the pursuit of your educational goals.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Students enrolled in ACC Health Sciences programs are expected to agree to and abide by the ACC Student Policies and Procedures located at: http://www.austincc.edu/handbook

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY Academic integrity is an essential component of professional behavior in Health Sciences programs. Any documented incidences of academic dishonesty may result in an academic penalty up to withdrawal from the specific program. ACC Health Sciences programs follow the college’s general policies on academic integrity as set forth in the ACC Catalog. A copy of the catalog is available at each campus’s administrative offices, or may be downloaded from the ACC website at: http://www.austincc.edu/catalog/ Academic work submitted by students shall be the result of their own thought, research or self-expression. For purposes of these regulations, academic work is defined as, but not limited to exams and quizzes, whether taken electronically or on paper; projects, either individual or group; papers; classroom presentations; and homework. When students borrow ideas, wording or organization from another source, they shall reference that information in an appropriate manner. Definition: Actions constituting violations of academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, the following: Cheating: The use of unauthorized materials, information, or study aids; or an act of deceit by which a student attempts to misrepresent academic skills or knowledge; or unauthorized copying or collaboration. • • • • • •

using unauthorized notes or other study aids during an examination using unauthorized technology during an examination; only approved calculators may be used; no cell phones improper storage of prohibited notes, course materials and study aids during an exam such that they are accessible or possible to view looking at other students’ work during an exam or on an assignment where collaboration is not allowed attempting to communicate with other students in order to get/give help during an exam or on an assignment where collaboration is not allowed (i.e. competency check offs) obtaining an examination prior to its administration 2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 4

• • • •

altering graded work and submitting it for re-grading allowing another person to do one’s work and submitting it as one’s own submitting work done in one class for credit in another without the instructor’s permission removal of privacy screen on computer

Plagiarism: Defined as taking another person’s intellectual work and using it as one’s own; for example, this includes quoting without giving proper credit to a source, expanding another person’s work without giving credit to that person, or submitting another person’s work under the pretense that it is one’s own. Fabrication: Intentional and unauthorized falsification or invention of any information or citation in an academic exercise. Collusion: Knowingly helping another individual violate any provision of the Academic Dishonesty guidelines. Collusion includes assistance with assignments or tests that are not authorized by the instructor Falsifying institutional records or other legal or source documents: Includes altering grades, either written or electronic, or other falsification of academic records such as application for admission, grade reports, test papers, registration materials, and reporting forms used by the college.

PROGRAM PROGRESSION In order to successfully progress through Health Science programs, the student must at a minimum (Individual programs may have additional requirements): • •

• •

Complete pre-requisite courses before progressing in the program. Be enrolled in co-requisite courses at the same time. a. Withdrawal from any co-requisite course prior to the college official withdrawal date will result in withdrawal from all other co-requisite courses regardless of the current grade in the course. b. Students who fail a co-requisite course are required to retake all co-requisite courses upon readmission. Achieve a minimum grade of “C” in all health science courses (grading scale of individual programs may vary) Satisfactorily meet course objectives.

GRADUATION In addition to the graduation requirements contained in the ACC College Catalog (See “Graduation”), the prospective graduate must: 1. 2. 3.

Complete all courses listed in the official degree plan with a minimum grade of “C.” Have official transcripts from all other colleges sent to ACC Admissions and Records for evaluation, if student has taken courses at other colleges that apply to the degree plan. Apply for graduation in accordance with college policies.

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STUDENT COMPLAINT PROCEDURE Health Science programs follow the college’s policies for student complaints as set forth in the ACC Student Policies and Procedures located at: http://www.austincc.edu/handbook and the ACC Catalog. A copy of the catalog is available at each campus’s administrative offices, or may be downloaded from http://www.austincc.edu/catalog. The purpose of the student complaint procedure is to ensure students due process in the resolution of a complaint. Student complaints may include (but are not limited to) issues regarding classroom instruction or other college services and offices as well as discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, age, national origin, disability or sexual orientation. This procedure does not apply to student disputes about course grades which are resolved under the supervision of the appropriate instructors and instructional administrators. The program will not retaliate against the student as a result of filing a complaint.

SMOKING Effective January 2, 2012, ACC implemented a smoke-free policy for all campuses and facilities. Many of the clinical facilities utilized by the Health Sciences programs are non-smoking facilities. Smoking is prohibited on the property. Students who are reported to have been smoking on the property of these facilities may loose placement at that facility and will be placed on immediate probation.

SEXUAL AND/OR RACIAL HARASSMENT COMPLAINTS If a Health Sciences student has a complaint regarding sexual or racial harassment the student should refer to the ACC Student Policies and Procedures located at: http://www.austincc.edu/handbook and to the ACC Catalog. A copy of the catalog is available at each campus’s administrative offices, or may be downloaded at: http://www.austincc.edu/catalog

GRADE CHANGE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ACC Health Sciences programs follow the college’s policies on grade change as set forth in the ACC Catalog. A copy of the catalog is available at each campus’s administrative offices, or may be downloaded from the ACC website at: http://www.austincc.edu/catalog

ASSIGNMENT OF GRADES The instructor teaching the course shall assign grades. The instructor will provide information to the students at the beginning of the semester regarding the course, including the guidelines for grading. If the student has questions about a grading policy and/or a specific grade, the student must raise the question while enrolled in the course. If the student is unable to resolve the questions or objections with the instructor, the student is to make an appointment with the department chair to discuss the matter or, if the instructor is the department chair, with the dean.

GRADE CHANGE APPEAL If a student believes that an error has been made in the assignment of a grade, he or she should follow the Grade Dispute Policy in ACC Student Policies and Procedures located at: http://www.austincc.edu/handbook and in the

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ACC Catalog. A copy of the catalog is available at each campus’s administrative offices, or may be downloaded at: http://www.austincc.edu/catalog.

CLINICAL/PRACTICUM POLICIES PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR Faculty of Austin Community College and the Health Sciences Programs have an academic, legal and ethical responsibility to protect members of the public and of the health care community from unsafe or unprofessional practices. Health Science students, while representing Austin Community College at any clinical agency, must conduct themselves in an ethical, professional, and safe manner. Students are expected to assume responsibility for their actions and will be held accountable for them. Students will abide by ACC and clinical agency policies during each clinical experience. Failure to adhere to program specific policies related to professional behavior or safe clinical practice may result in the use of the Progressive Discipline Policy outlined in the Radiology Student Handbook.

PROFESSIONAL ETHICS AND CONFIDENTIALITY Students must remember that the information concerning patients is confidential. Students are required to adhere to legal and ethical standards as established by regulatory agencies and professional standards. Failure to comply with the above is cause for immediate dismissal from the program.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES Social media platforms are technology tools and online spaces for integrating and sharing user-generated content in order to engage constituencies in conversations and allow them to participate in content and community creation (VanderbiltHealth.com). Examples include but are not limited to: • • • • •

Blogs: Wordpress, Blogger Social Networking Sites: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn Virtual Social Worlds: Second Life Collaborative Projects: Wikis Content Communities: YouTube, Flickr

What are portable electronic devices (PED)? Any non-stationary electronic apparatus with singular or multiple capabilities of recording, storing, processing, and/or transmitting data, video/photo images, and/or voice emanations. This definition generally includes, but is not limited to, laptops, PDAs, pocket PCs, palmtops, Media Players (MP3s), memory sticks (thumb drives), cellular telephones, PEDs with cellular phone capability, and pagers.(US Department of Homeland Security) General Information When publishing information on social media sites, the student needs to be aware that information may be public for anyone to see and can be traced back to them as an individual. There is no such thing as a “private” social media site. Search engines can turn up posts years after the publication date. Comments can be forwarded or

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copied. If you are unsure about posting something or responding to a comment, ask your faculty. Social media typically enables two-way communications with the audience therefore an individual has less control of how materials will be used by others. Social media may be used to investigate student behavior. As a student in an ACC Health Sciences program, you may encounter confidential information within the classroom or patient care environment during clinicals/practicums. It is the responsibility of the student to follow the following policy related to Social Media. Policy: •

• •

•

• • • • •

All social media postings must be made within the guidelines of the “Professional Behavior, Professional Ethics and Confidentiality, Safe/Unsafe Clinical/Practicum” policies outlined in the program specific student handbook, and Professional Codes of Conduct/Code of Ethics as applicable to their specific field. All postings to social media platforms must comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), applicable facility policy, and state law. Do not share, post, or otherwise disseminate any information, including images, about a patient or information gained as a result of your presence in a clinical/practicum setting or as a result of a studentpatient/client relationship. Do not identify patients/clients by name or post or publish information that may lead to the identification of a patient/client (examples include but not limited to: date of care, facility name, diagnosis, and treatment/surgery). Limiting access to postings through privacy settings is not sufficient to ensure privacy. During clinicals/practicums, any use of electronic devices (cell phones, laptops, etc.) must be with faculty approval within the guidelines of facility/program policies. Do not take photos or videos of patients on personal devices, including cell phones. Maintain professional boundaries in the use of electronic media. Online contact with patients/clients or former patients/clients blurs the distinction between a professional and personal relationship. Student must have permission from the faculty to videotape or audio tape in the classroom. Official accommodations made by the Student Accessibility Services (SAS) will be provided. Personal phone conversations or texting are NOT allowed at any time while in patient/client areas or in the classroom. If the student needs to respond to an emergency text or call during class, the student is asked to leave the classroom.

Consequences: • •

Violations of patient/client privacy with a portable electronic device/use of social media platforms will be subject to HIPAA procedure/guidelines and consequences. Students who violate “Professional Behavior, Professional Ethics and Confidentiality, Safe/Unsafe Clinical/Practicum” policies outlined in the program specific student handbook, and Professional Codes of Conduct/Code of ethics codes through the use of social media platforms/portable electronic communication devices do so at the risk of disciplinary action that can be failure in a course and/or dismissal from the program.

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DONATED RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGES If a clinical affiliate site wishes to donate radiographic images or video clips, the Clinical Instructor at the site must contact the Radiography Program directly to initiate the donation. The Radiography students are prohibited from initiating the donation process and may not accept or remove from the site any images/video clips, reports, or copies of the patient records regardless of the level of de-identification of the patient record or information. In compliance with ACC HIPAA procedures regarding the use of donated de-identified patient information (Radiographic teaching case studies), the following procedure must be followed: 1.

2.

3.

All hard copies of films, digital images, video clips, or DVD’s must be de-identified prior to the study leaving the clinical site. This may be done electronically or physically (cut the patient name and MR number out of the films). Films, videos, and clips that cannot be de-identified prior to the case leaving the donating clinical site cannot be used by the program and will not be accepted. Failure to follow the above procedure will result in disciplinary action for the student and faculty member. De-identified case studies donated to the Radiography Program will be logged into the appropriate section of the Donated Case log and the studies will be labeled according to the type of radiographic study and the number assigned to the case. The donated case log will also record which course the study will be utilized for teaching during the curriculum. It is the responsibility of the Radiology faculty to appropriately log and label each donated case. The donated Case Log will be maintained in the Radiography Program Department Chair’s office and will be available for inspection by the HIPAA Task Force at any time.

SAFE/UNSAFE CLINICAL/PRACTICUM PRACTICES The Health Sciences Programs identify safety as a basic human need. A safety need can be identified as physical, biological, and/or emotional in nature. Safe practices are a requirement of each program. Unsafe clinical/practicum practice shall be deemed to be behavior demonstrated by the student which threatens or violates the physical, biological, or emotional safety of the patient, caregiver, students, staff or self. Unsafe or unprofessional clinical/practicum practice may result in implementation of the Progressive Discipline Policy outlined in the Radiology Student Handbook. The following examples serve as guides to these unsafe behaviors, but are not to be considered all-inclusive. Physical Safety: Unsafe behaviors include but are not limited to: • • • •

inappropriate use of side rails, wheelchairs, other equipment lack of proper protection of the patient which potentiates falls, lacerations, burns, new or further injury failure to correctly identify patient(s) prior to initiating care failure to perform pre-procedure safety checks of equipment, invasive devices or patient status

Biological Safety: Unsafe behaviors include but are not limited to: • • • •

failure to recognize violations in aseptic technique improper medication administration techniques/choices performing actions without appropriate supervision failure to seek help when needed

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• •

attending clinical while ill failure to properly identify patient(s) prior to treatments

Emotional Safety: Unsafe behaviors include but are not limited to: • • • •

threatening or making a patient, caregiver, or bystander fearful providing inappropriate or incorrect information performing actions without appropriate supervision failure to seek help when needed, unstable emotional behaviors

Unprofessional Practice: Unprofessional behaviors include but are not limited to: •

• • • • • • •

Verbal or non-verbal language, actions (including but not limited to postings on social media sites), or voice inflections which compromise rapport and working relations with patients, family members, staff, or physicians, may potentially compromise contractual agreements and/or working relations with clinical affiliates, or constitute violations of legal/ethical standards Behavior which interferes with or disrupts teaching/learning experiences Using or being under the influence of any drug or alcohol that may alter judgment and interfere with safe performance in the clinical or classroom setting Breach of confidentiality in any form Falsifying data in a patient health record Misrepresenting care given, clinical errors, or any action related to the clinical experience Recording, taping, taking pictures in the clinical setting without expressed consent Leaving the clinical area without notification of faculty and clinical staff or supervisor

PLACEMENT POLICY ACC will not place a student in a rotation at a clinical site where the student is currently employed by the facility in the same department and/or under the same supervisor and where the ACC faculty is not continually onsite with the student.

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE Faculty is committed to assisting students to be successful in the program. To afford students due process, Health Science students who are not meeting courses objectives in class, clinical/practicum or lab will be apprised of their performance status using the progressive discipline process. Step 1: Warning The instructor provides the student with a verbal warning or written feedback as to their status. The instructor counsels the student regarding criteria for successful completion of the course and makes recommendations for improvement. Recommendations may include but are not limited to - utilization of peer study groups, tutors, computer-assisted instruction, seeking assistance from ACC counselors. At the discretion of the instructor and depending on the situation, this step may be skipped and a conference done.

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Step 2: Conference The student meets with the instructor in a formal conference to review the performance deficit. A written Health Science Conference Report will identify specific course/program objectives not met and a remediation plan/contract, including deadlines for completion, to assist the student to correct the deficit and remain in the program and be successful. If at any time the student does not comply with all terms outlined in the conference report, the student may be placed on probation or withdrawn from the program Step 3: Probation Probation action is implemented for: • • • • • • • •

Unsatisfactory clinical performance Unsatisfactory clinical attendance and punctuality Inability to maintain physical and mental health necessary to function in the program Unethical, unprofessional behavior, and/or unsafe clinical practice Refusal to participate with a procedure Unsafe or unprofessional clinical practice that compromises patient or staff safety Behavior which compromises clinical affiliations Failure to comply with all terms outlined in the conference report

Probation is a trial period in which the student must improve or be withdrawn from the program. The student meets with the instructor and department chair. An ACC counselor may be asked to assist in representing the student. The student and faculty will review and sign a Health Science Probation Report explicitly stating expectations that must be followed during the probationary period and signed. Step 4: Withdrawal If at any time during the probation period, the student fails to meet any of the conditions of the probation contract, the student may be withdrawn from the program. Accordingly, if at the end of the probation period the student has not met the criteria for satisfactory performance outlined in the probation contract, the student will be withdrawn from the program. A student who is placed on probation for unsafe or unprofessional conduct will be withdrawn from the program for subsequent safety or professional conduct violations at any time during the program. (If the occurrence is past the official college date for withdrawal from a course, the student will receive a performance grade of “F” or “U” as applicable.) Some situations do not allow for the progressive discipline process due to the severity of nature or the timing of their occurrence. Incidents of this nature may require the student to be immediately placed on probation or withdrawn from the program. Examples of these include, but are not limited to: • • •

Violations of patient confidentiality Academic dishonesty Falsification of documentation

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• safety •

Unprofessional behavior/unsafe behavior that seriously jeopardizes patient, student, staff, or preceptor Unprofessional behavior that seriously jeopardizes clinical affiliations.

NOTE: If the occurrence is past the official college date for withdrawal from a course, the student will receive a performance grade of “F” or “U” as applicable. •

Withdrawal Policy: Semester Credit Courses http://www.austincc.edu/admrule/1.04.003.htm

●

Instructor Initiated Withdrawal and Appeal Policy http://www2.austincc.edu/admrule/4.01.002.htm

HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL RISKS Interactions with patients in the health care system carry inherent risks to both the patient and caregiver, including, but not limited to, communicable diseases. In the curriculum, students will be given information regarding known risks for various diseases and measures to decrease these risks. All students are expected to provide appropriate care to all assigned patients in any setting. These assignments may include patients with medical diagnoses of tuberculosis; hepatitis A, B, or C; AIDS; or other infectious diseases. Students are expected to implement standard precautions and appropriate barrier protection in the care of all assigned patients.

HEALTH INSURANCE The College does not provide personal health insurance coverage for students. All Health Sciences students are required to carry some type of personal health insurance. Information about health insurance is available at: www.austincc.edu/ehs/Insurance under Optional Student Health Insurance or http://www.austincc.edu/health/health_insurance.php. Should medical care be required, the student is responsible for all costs of treatment/medical care unless it is an accident covered under the accident insurance policy described below.

FLU VACCINE To protect patients and provide a safe environment for students, staff, and the public, all students participating in clinical/practicum experiences/courses in any facility may be required to provide documentation of the seasonal flu vaccine. Failure to have the immunization may have implications for clinical attendance. Students will be provided additional information when indicated.

TB TESTING AND CPR REQUIEMENTS All Health Sciences students are required to provide the following documentation: Initial Tuberculosis Screening validated by a negative two-step TB screening (Mantoux test) or negative blood assay (QFT, TSPOT) within the past 90 days prior to beginning the Program.

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• •

• •

If a prior positive reactor to TST, must show documentation of a negative blood assay within 90 days. If prior positive blood assay, present a negative chest x-ray within past 2 years (this must not expire prior to, or during your first semester), be free of productive cough, night sweats or unexplained loss of weight. (submit Disease Screening TB Questionnaire) Annual Testing: TST single step skin test or blood assay, as indicated, for all students; OR if prior positive blood assay, complete an annual review of active disease (TB) screening questionnaire. Current CPR certification: must meet standards of the American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support for the Healthcare Provider. The card verifying completion must be an AHA card (see specific program requirement).

All items must be current for the duration of the coming semester. If any item expires during the semester, it must be completed (Redone) prior to the first day of class or earlier as directed by the program

ACCIDENTS/EXPOSURE Medical Professional Liability Insurance--Medical professional liability insurance is required for each Health Science student enrolled in a clinical course with patient contact. This insurance is purchased automatically through Austin Community College registration fees collected each semester. Accident Insurance-- Austin Community College students purchase Student Accident Insurance by paying applicable Insurance Fee when they register and pay for classes. The Student Accident Insurance pays for injuries occurring from school sponsored activities related to the selected classes. The insurance policy is a $10,000 maximum benefit per accident policy with a $25 deductible per claim. The policy pays for reasonable and customary charges for treatment of injuries. It does not pay for illnesses such as allergies, influenza, or fainting. The policy is a ‘primary pay’ policy; it will pay first regardless if the student has any other insurance. For additional information, go to http://www.austincc.edu/ehs/Insurance

ACCIDENT PROCEDUES 1. 2. 3. 4.

5.

Provide first aid for the student sufficient to get the situation under control. If the accident occurs on campus, campus police are notified. If the accident occurs in the clinical area, faculty responsible for the course in which the student is injured must be notified immediately of the incident. If it appears that a physician should see the student, he or she may choose to see his/her own physician, go to a minor emergency center, or be transported to a hospital. The student can pay the bill at the time of treatment or assign benefits and request reimbursement from ACC’s insurance company. The injured student will use the designated claim form. All applicable components of the claim form must be completed. The completed form must contain the signature of the student/claimant and submission of an itemized medical bill before reimbursement will be made. Reimbursement requests along with completed claim form should be sent to: Austin Community College Risk Management Department 9101 Tuscany Way Austin, TX 78754 Phone: 512-223-1015 Fax: 512-223-1035

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6. 7.

8.

The student or faculty submits a copy of the completed insurance form, HIPAA, release form, and the Fraud Warning certification to the Assistant Dean of Health Sciences immediately after the incident. The Faculty submits TWO copies of the Supervisor’s Injury and Illness Analysis and Prevention Report; one copy to the Department Chair and one copy to the Assistant Dean of Health Sciences within 48 hours of the event. The Assistant Dean of Health Sciences will communicate the official notification of the claim to the Risk Management Department who confirms insurance coverage with the carrier and medical provider. *************************

FORMS ARE AVAILABLE IN PUBLISHED COURSE MATERIALS and on the web http://www3.austincc.edu/it/eforms/frontpage.php?ID=RIIN.004 http://www3.austincc.edu/it/eforms/frontpage.php?ID=RIIN.003

EXPOSURE RESPONSE Students and faculty members who experience an exposure to any potentially infectious materials (needle stick, mucous membrane, or non-intact skin) or airborne inhalation require specific follow-up. It is the responsibility of the individual to initiate appropriate first aid and to report the incident as soon as possible (preferably within one hour) to their immediate supervisor or instructor. It is the responsibility of the clinical instructor or supervisor to ensure that the appropriate steps have been taken to provide for the safety of the student. It is the responsibility of the Department Chair to assist the faculty member following an exposure to the student or employee. Faculty will ensure that copies of the Accident procedures and appropriate forms will be made available to the students prior to their first clinical experience. Facility Specific Orientation/Training/Testing Austin Community College Health Science Students and faculty will follow procedures outlined in the Seton Safe Environment of Care (EOC) and the St. David’s Mandatory Education Module designed by Seton and St. David’s and adapted for use at ACC in order to educate students and faculty in procedures mandated by health care facilities. Additional training modules may also be required for students in specific programs. All of the Seton and St. David’s health organizations, in which ACC is affiliated, have agreed to the use of these procedures in order to educate students and faculty prior to their clinical rotations in those facilities. The purpose of the test is to understand the safety and regulatory requirements related to patient care presented in the Seton Safe EOC Manual and St. David’s Mandatory Education Module. The scope of these tests include general safety, hazardous materials and waste, medical equipment, security, emergency preparedness, life safety and building construction, utility systems, confidentiality and social environment. These tests are primarily multiple-choice with some short answers questions. These exams require the student to self-remediate. The students will not be able to move forward until they have correctly answered each question. These exams are available at: http://www.austincc.edu/health/dmt.php or on departmental home pages. Specific instructions about how to access the test will be given to students by their instructor. When students have completed the tests, they will be required to make a copy for themselves and electronically mail a copy to their

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 14

program. These files must be kept so that the College can prove compliance with the health care facilities’ accreditation requirements. Students who are assigned a clinical or practicum experience in a St. David’s Healthcare Partnership facility will be required to sign a Statement of Responsibility form. (http://www.austincc.edu/health/dmt.php) Other facilities may require students to complete facility specific training modules/post-tests.

HIPAA The Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA) Act requires that all protected health information be kept private and secure by all persons that handle, or have access to, that information (see HIPAA Compliance Manual at http://www.austincc.edu/hipaa/manual.php). Since health sciences students, faculty, instructors, and staff use protected health information as part of the educational process (i.e. access to client health data to provide care and use of de-identified health data for educational assignments such as case studies and care plans), all health science students must annually complete an online training module to remain in compliance with HIPAA regulations. Students are not allowed to enter the clinical settings/fieldwork until this training has been completed. Any violations of HIPAA regulations will result in disciplinary actions up to and including withdrawal from the program depending on the severity of the violation. ACC Website: http://www.austincc.edu/hipaa/training/hipaa_home.php

HIPAA BREACH AND NOTIFICATION PROCESS If a breach occurs, the Event Notification Form (found on the HS Faculty Resource page) must be completed within three working days and distributed as follows: •

Covered Entity (clinical site/facility)

•

HIPAA Privacy Officer

•

Program/Department HIPAA File

Violations and sanctions can be applicable to program and to the individual involved. The involved Program/Department follows the progressive discipline policy in the Student Handbook that addresses student confidentiality violations.

LATEX ALLERGY Approximately 3 million people in the U.S. are allergic to latex. Latex is used in more than 40,000 industrial, household, and medical products. Exposures to latex may result in skin rashes, hives, flushing, itching; nasal, eye, or sinus symptoms, asthma, and (rarely) shock. Reports of such allergic reactions to latex have increased in recent years—especially among healthcare workers—NIOSH. This statement is provided to notify students of the possible risk of latex allergies. It is important to notify the program if you are or become allergic/sensitive to latex products.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 15

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY (SUSPICION-BASED DRUG TESTING) The well-being of patients and clients cared for by our students is of primary concern in all Health Sciences programs and a carefully designed and administered drug and alcohol misuse procedure can reduce accidents. Therefore, the Health Sciences Department has adopted a substance abuse testing program wherein a student who is participating in clinical courses will be tested for drugs when there is reasonable suspicion that the student is under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs, i.e., drugs which are controlled substances under federal law which are not being used under the supervision of a licensed health care professional, or otherwise in accordance with the law. Students will be asked to submit to drug screening by their ACC clinical instructor at the expense of the college in the following circumstances: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Observable indication of actual use or impairment such as slurred speech, lack of coordination, incoherency, marijuana or alcohol odors. Possession of drugs, apparent paraphernalia or alcoholic beverages. Detailed, factual and persistent reports of misuse by multiple colleagues. Abnormal or erratic behaviors such as sudden outbursts, mood swings, hostility or unusual anxiety that suggests possible drug use or alcohol misuse. Involvement in suspicious accidents. Apparent lapses in judgment or memory. Unusual lethargy.

Testing Procedure 1.

Document student’s behavior. Confer with department chair. If a department chair is the faculty member concerned about the student’s behavior or if the department chair is unavailable, the conference will be with the dean or dean’s designee.

2.

If a student denies being under the influence of unauthorized substances, a request for a drug screen will be initiated. a.

The student will sign a consent to undergo drug screening.*

b.

If the student refuses to consent to drug screening, the student will be immediately dismissed from the program.

3.

Institute a Request for Drug Screen. Provide verbal and written instructions for the testing procedure, including time frames for the test.

4.

Arrange for transportation directly to a designated testing center by taxi accompanied by a Health Sciences’ representative.

5.

After the drug screen specimen has been obtained, the student will be transported by taxi back to the point of origin or home.

6.

Student is excluded from all clinical activities pending results of the drug screen.

7.

Drug screen findings will be interpreted by the designated testing center within 24-48 hours.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 16

8.

Results will be sent to the Dean of Health Sciences where they will be kept in a confidential, locked file. Results of the drug screen will be released to the department chair on a need to know basis only. Records may be released only to the student or the decision-maker in a lawsuit, grievance or other legal proceeding against the College or its agents arising out of the positive drug test.

9.

All positive drug screens will be reviewed by an independent Medical Review Officer. During the review process, the student will have the opportunity to:

10.

a.

Explain the cause of the positive drug screen.

b.

Provide the name of the physician authorizing any prescription medications. The Medical Review Officer will contact the attending physician for verification. If verification is obtained, the student will be placed on probation. Any subsequent evidence of substance abuse will result in a recommendation that the student be dismissed from the program. The student may appeal the recommendation using the Student Complaint Procedure in the ACC Catalog.

If drug screen is positive and unexplained or unverified via the Medical Review Officer, the student will be: a.

Dismissed from the program and

b.

Reported to the state licensing agency, if applicable.

11.

A student who tests positive will be referred to a community resource for evaluation by the ACC counselor at the student’s expense.

12.

If the drug screen is negative, the student will be immediately reinstated in clinical by the department chair and will be provided opportunity to make up assignments. The student will be subject to all other objectives related to safe behavior and care of clients.

13.

Readmission to the program is based on program admission policies.

* Please refer to the Consent for Drug Screening form located in the Appendices section at the end of this handbook. NOTE: Some clinical affiliates may require a preliminary drug screening prior to actual clinical practice in their facility.

DRUG SCREENING RATIONALE Health care providers are entrusted with the health, safety, and welfare of patients/clients. The safety and welfare of patients/clients cared for by our students is of primary concern in all Health Sciences programs and the clinical agencies that provide essential clinical experiences for the students. The clinical agencies require a drug screen prior to the first clinical course to ensure that their facility is in compliance with The Joint Commission (TJC) standards.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 17

IMPLEMENTATION Successful completion of the ten (10) panel drug screen is required within thirty days of beginning the first clinical course. Drug screens will be honored for the duration of the student's enrollment in the clinical program if the participating student has not had a break in the enrollment of a Health Science program. A break in enrollment is defined as nonattendance of one full semester or more. The Ten Panel Drug Screen includes testing for: • • • • • • • • • •

Cocaine Metabolites Amphetamines Barbiturates Benzodiazepines Marijuana metabolites Opiates Phencyclidine Propoxyphene metabolite Methadone Methaqualone

POSITIVE DRUG SCREEN •

A positive drug screen is any instance in which a drug screening report shows a positive test for one or more of the drugs on the panel.

•

Any student with a positive drug screen will be withdrawn from the program and will be ineligible for reapplication for a minimum of twelve months from the date of withdrawal.

•

The health sciences Reasonable Suspicion- Based Substance Abuse Policy remains in effect for all students for the duration of enrollment. See program handbook.

Failure to undergo the drug test in the time period required will result in withdrawal from the program.

DISCLAIMERS •

Successful completion of a drug screen for a Health Sciences Program does not ensure eligibility for licensure or future employment.

•

Clinical agencies can require additional drug screens to be in compliance with their policies.

•

If a student is found to be ineligible for clinical placement any time during the program, the student is unable to meet clinical learning objectives and will be withdrawn pending resolution of the situation.

ALLOCATION OF COST Cost of the drug screen is the responsibility of the student.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 18

CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS Drug screening reports and all records pertaining to the results are considered confidential information with restricted access. The results and records are subject to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND Successful completion of a criminal background check is required for admission and continuation in all Health Sciences Programs. Criminal background requirements are found at http://www.austincc.edu/health/background.php Background checks will be honored for the duration of the student’s enrollment in the clinical program if the participating student has not had a break in the enrollment at the college/school. A break in enrollment is defined as nonattendance of one full semester or more. Once accepted into the program, it is the student’s responsibility to immediately notify the Health Sciences Compliance Coordinator in writing of any subsequent changes in criminal history that occur after the admission background check has been completed. Failure to do so may result in immediate withdrawal from the program. Additionally, ●

Successful completion of a criminal background check for a Health Sciences Program does not ensure eligibility for licensure or future employment.

●

Clinical agencies can establish more stringent standards, if they so desire, to meet regulatory requirements for their facility.

●

Clinical agencies can conduct additional background checks at their discretion.

●

If a student is found to be ineligible for clinical placement any time during the program, the student is unable to meet clinical learning objectives and will be withdrawn pending resolution of the situation.

EMERGENCY INSTRUCTIONS Austin Community College District has procedures in place to help ensure the safety of students during an emergency. Emergency instruction signs are posted in each campus classroom. They indicate evacuation routes, outside rally locations, and indoor shelter-in-place areas. Administrators-in-charge and emergency evacuation coordinators are designated in all facilities to assist students and staff in an emergency. See Emergency Instructions at Student Handbook at http://www.austincc.edu/handbook

GENERAL EMERGENCIES To reach the ACC Police Department dial 222 from any campus phone or 512.223.7999 from any cell phone, pay phone, or off campus. The ACC Police Department can better determine the student’s location and will notify the local police and fire departments.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 19

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES In the case of severe bleeding, breathing problems, or chest pains, call 911. For other medical emergencies, contact the ACC Police Department by dialing 222 from any campus phone or 512.223.7999 from any cell phone, pay phone, or off-campus phone.

SEVERE WEATHER/OUTDOOR HAZARDS In cases of severe weather or other dangerous conditions outdoors, students will be directed to shelter-in-place areas inside the building. Do not go outside or move to another building. Do not use elevators. Upon being alerted by a public address system, alarm, or campus administrator, students will move immediately to shelter-in-place areas indicated on the emergency signs posted in each classroom. Shelter-in-place areas are located in the lowest floor possible of the building, in the center of the building, and away from glass.

FIRE Upon hearing a continuous alarm or verbal warning, students should evacuate the building immediately and move to the fire evacuation rally location indicated on the emergency signs posted in each classroom. Do not run. Do not use elevators. 1.

Leave the building through the nearest exit.

2.

Take personal belongs if they are in the same room.

3.

Close all doors behind you. Do not lock them.

4.

Report to fire evacuation rally location. You must be accounted for at rally location.

5.

Students and staff will be permitted to re-enter the building when the administrator-in-charge or emergency evacuation coordinator gives a verbal “all clear” signal.

GUNMAN ON CAMPUS Students or staff who see an armed person or receive information that an armed person is on campus should to take the following steps. 1.

Contact the ACC Police Dispatch by dialing 222 from any campus phone or 512.223.7999 from any cell phone, pay phone, or off-campus phone.

2.

Turn off lights, close and lock doors.

3.

Get on the floor out of the line of fire. Seek available cover.

4.

Wait until an “All Clear” given by a police officer or authorized, known voice.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 20

CONTACTING A STUDENT IN AN EMERGENCY With thousands of students at different locations, it is not possible for staff to contact students on campus except in cases of emergency. Staff members may inquire about the nature of the emergency and decide whether the student should be contacted. In order to contact students, campus staff will need the student’s ID number and class schedule. When students anticipate someone may need to contact them on campus, they should leave the necessary information in the campus manager’s office. Under no circumstances will ACC permit persons to search for students on campus.

FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT The following statement concerning student records maintained by the Austin Community College District is published in compliance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. The release of information to the public without the consent of the student will be limited to that designated as directory information. Directory information includes name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in activities, dates of attendance, degrees, certificates and awards, name of the previous educational institution attended, student classification and enrollment status. Any student objecting to the release of all or any portion of such information must notify Admissions and Records within the first 12 class days of the semester. The restriction will remain in effect until revoked by the student. Please visit http://www.austincc.edu/visitors/ferpa.php for more detailed information about FERPA.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 21

COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY PROGRAM OUTCOMES/GOALS/OBJECTIVES Upon completion of the program, the student will satisfactorily demonstrate the following entry level skills in Computed Tomography: • • • • • • •

clinical competency communication skills problem solving and critical thinking skills professional growth and development A minimum of 90% of program graduates will successfully write the ARRT credentialing examination in CT. 75% of admitted declared students complete the program. 80% of the graduates employed in CT within six months of program completion/matriculation.

SCANS COMPETENCIES In 1990, the U.S. Department of Labor established the Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS) to examine the demands of the work-place and whether our nation’s students are capable of meeting those demands. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board requires that all degree plans in institutions of higher education incorporate these competencies, and identify to the student how these competencies are achieved in course objectives.

1.0

RESOURCES

1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4

Manages time Manages money Manages material and facility resources Manages human resources

2.0

INTERPERSONAL

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6

Participates as a member of a team Teaches others Serves clients/customers Exercises leadership Negotiates to arrive at a decision Works with cultural diversity

3.0

INFORMATION

3.1 3.2 3.3

Acquires and evaluates information Organizes and maintains information Uses computers to process information

4.0

SYSTEMS

4.1 4.2 4.3

Understands systems Monitors and corrects performance Improves and designs systems

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 22

5.0

TECHNOLOGY

5.1 5.2 5.3

Selects technology Applies technology to talk Maintains and troubleshoots technology

6.0

BASIC SKILLS

6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6

Reading Writing Arithmetic Mathematics Listening Speaking

7.0

THINKING SKILLS

7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6

Creative thinking Decision making Problem solving Mental visualization Knowing how to learn Reasoning

8.0

PERSONAL QUALITIES

8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5

Responsibility Self-esteem Sociability Self-management Integrity/honesty

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 23

PROGRAM POLICIES AND INFORMATION ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 2014 Admission to the Program is based on a GPA, education, and work experience ranking. Admission is nondiscriminatory in regard to race, creed, color, gender, age, handicap, or national origin. The deadline for submitting applications is July 1 of every year. The following items must be submitted with the application. Please note that the admissions process is subject to revision for the following academic year. The applicant must be ARRT exam eligible or ARRT credentialed or NMT credentialed at the time of application. The applicant must be in good standing with the credentialing agency. A copy of the credential card must be submitted with the application. The applicant can submit a work experience documentation if applicable. The applicant must have the required immunizations, After acceptance into the program, students will need to complete the two-step TB test, Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening and submit a current CPR for health care providers.

HEALTH DATA REQUIREMENTS Health Sciences students must possess the physical abilities and characteristics required to meet the technical standards for their Health Sciences program. Therefore, all Health Sciences students are required to have a health assessment performed by a physician or other approved licensed health professional after they have been st admitted to the program but no later than August 1 . The ACC Health Data form must be used for this purpose and is available at www.austincc.edu/health. Click on Documents, Modules & Tests then Health Data form. A student must resubmit a Health Data form if he/she has had a lapse in program enrollment for one semester or more

TECHNICAL STANDARDS AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Health Sciences programs establish technical standards and essential functions to insure that students have the abilities required to participate and potentially be successful in all aspects of the respective programs. Students are required to perform these critical behaviors and essential functions for the Magnetic Resonance Imaging program as indicated in the following grid. The following technical standards and essential functions outline reasonable expectations of a student in the Diagnostic Medical Imaging-CT program for the performance of common functions. The student must be able to apply the knowledge and skills necessary to function in a variety of classroom, and clinical situations while providing the essential competencies of CT. These requirements apply for the purpose of admission and continuation in the program.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 24

The student must demonstrate the following abilities: Categories of Essential Functions Observation

Definition Ability to participate actively in all demonstrations and clinical experiences in the professional program component and to assess and comprehend the condition of all clients assigned to him/her for examination, diagnosis, and treatment. Such observation and information usually requires functional use of visual, auditory, and somatic sensations.

Example of Technical Standard • • •

The visual acuity to discern diagnostic details in a CT image. The ability to see and function in a semidark setting. The auditory acuity to hear varied tones and be able to work around loud machinery.

Communication Ability to communicate effectively in English • using verbal, non-verbal and written formats with faculty, other students, clients, families and all members of the healthcare team.

The ability to communicate proficiently with patients and fellow members of the healthcare team in the English language.

Motor

Sufficient motor ability to execute the movement • and skills required for safe and effective care and emergency treatment. •

Fine motor skills to steadily crop post processing images. The ability to lift and move immobile patients.

Intellectual

Ability to collect, interpret and integrate information and make decisions.

The ability to assess physical and behavioral signs of emergent conditions displayed by clients that indicate the need for immediate medical attention. The ability to employ innovative methods of accommodating variations in client condition, practitioner requests, and/or equipment limitations.

•

•

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 25

Categories of Essential Functions Behavioral and Social Attributes

Definition •

•

• •

Possess the emotional health and stability • required for full utilization of the student’s intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all academic and patient care responsibilities and the development of mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with clients and other members of the health care team. Possess the ability to tolerate taxing workloads, function effectively under stress, adapt to changing environments, display flexibility, and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in clinical settings with patients. Possess compassion, integrity, concern for others, and motivation. Possess the ability to demonstrate professional behaviors and a strong work ethic.

Example of Technical Standard The ability to tolerate heavy workloads and stressful conditions.

Qualified applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply to the program. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the Student Accessibility Services Office (SAS) if they feel they cannot meet one or more of the technical standards listed. Each ACC campus offers support services for students with documented physical or psychological disabilities. Students with disabilities must request reasonable accommodations through the Student Accessibility Services Office (SAS) on the campus where they expect to take the majority of their classes. Students are encouraged to do this three weeks before the start of each semester.

IMMUNIZATIONS Healthcare professions include inherent health and safety risks. Therefore, all health sciences students are required to be compliant with Texas Administrative Code Rule 97.64 related to immunizations for the protection of themselves and patients. Additional information related to immunizations is available at: www.austincc.edu/health/. Click on Immunizations.

CERTIFICATE PLAN This certificate program provides advanced classroom and clinical instruction in Computed Tomography. Completion of the prescribed curriculum will help prepare the student for the Advanced Certification Examination in Computed Tomography administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Admission to the college does not guarantee admission to the program and enrollment is limited. 2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 26

A Criminal Background Check will be required of students as mandated by law or as a condition of program approval. Program changes may not be reflected in the current ACC Catalog publication. Please access the most up to date information on the Program’s Web Page through a link at www.austincc.edu/health or by contacting the Health Sciences Admissions Office, Eastview Campus, Room 8356.

FALL SEMESTER CTMT 2232 - PRINCIPLES OF COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY In-depth coverage of computed tomography imaging techniques. Image quality assurance and radiation protection are emphasized. Patient care/safety, cross-sectional anatomy, CT exams and procedures, and the role of the CT technologist. Topics include medical terminology, ethical/legal aspects, contrast agents, venipuncture, indications for CT, pathology, CT protocols, and radiation safety.

CTMT 2236 - COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT AND METHODOLOGY Skill Development in the operation of computed tomographic equipment, focusing on routine protocols, image quality, quality assurance, and radiation protection. Principles, theory, and instrumentation of computed tomography equipment. Topics include image quality, artifacts, physical principles, data acquisition concepts, image reconstruction, post-processing, three-dimensional CT, and radiation dose in CT.

CTMT 2460-CLINICAL-RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY/SCIENCE-RADIOGRAPHER A health-related work-based learning experience that enables the student to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical professional.

TRANSFER OF COLLEGE CREDIT Previous course work satisfactorily completed at accredited institutions of higher education will be evaluated for transfer and may be applied toward a degree program at Austin Community College. A transcript will be evaluated after a student has registered for Austin Community College college-credit classes; and it will be evaluated only upon the request of the student. An official transcript is required for each college attended. The request should be made through a counselor or department chair during the first semester of enrollment at ACC. When the evaluation is complete, the number of transferred hours will be recorded on the Austin Community College transcript. Graduation candidates are responsible for complying with the section in the catalog stating criteria for graduation: specifically, the grade point average required for graduation, completion of all required courses, and application for graduation by the posted deadline. Transfer of Radiology Courses contained in the Workforce Education manual (WECM), the applicant is required to: • •

Submit an official transcript from the transferring college/program with a request for a transcript evaluation to the Admissions Office. Submit a copy of the transcript to the Radiology Program 2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 27

•

If an applicant has a “W” on their transcript, they must submit a letter from their previous program coordinator/director stating the student was in good academic standing at the time of withdrawal. Good academic standing indicates that the student has an average of at least 75 or above in Radiology courses.

Transfer of Radiology Courses not contained in the Workforce Education manual, the applicant must provide the following: • • • •

Submit an official transcript from the transferring college with a request for transcript evaluation to the Admissions office. Submit a copy of the official transcript from the transferring college to the Radiology Program Submit copies of course descriptions, objectives, and documentation of number of class and clinical contact hours to the Radiology Program Director for evaluation. If the applicant has a “W” on their transcript, they must submit a letter from their previous program coordinator stating the student was in good academic standing at the time of withdrawal. Good academic standing indicates that the student has an average of at least 75 or above in Radiology Courses.

TRANSCRIPT REVIEW The Radiology Program Department Chair or faculty is not responsible for official transcript evaluation. Students are responsible for initiating an official transcript review at any Admissions office to ensure transfer courses are accepted by ACC.

NOTE: Any previously taken RADR or CT courses are evaluated by the radiology department to determine appropriateness of course content. Students may receive full or partial credit for courses they have completed or a challenge exam may be required. Transfer students to the CT program are required to submit a letter of positive recommendation from their previous program director. PROGRAM POLICIES Students enrolled in ACC Health Sciences programs are expected to agree to and abide by the Student Discipline Policy and Student Rights and Responsibilities regulations as outlined in the ACC Student Handbook.

GRADING/GRADING SYSTEM It is expected that each student will successfully demonstrate competency in the classroom and clinical areas. Since this is a competency based program, each instructor will give the student course and/or unit objectives to be mastered. Grading distribution for all CT courses will be assigned according to the following scale: • • • •

A= 93 - 100% B= 85 - 92% C= 75 - 84% D= 68 - 74%

*For any CT course, an accumulative average of at least a 75% must be earned. Any CT course average lower than 75% is not considered passing and must be repeated. Any CT course may only be repeated once.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 28

CHALLENGE EXAM POLICY A qualified student may request a challenge exam to receive credit for a RADR/CT course. The student must file a written notice of his/her intent to take a challenge exam. Forms may be obtained from the RADR department chair and must be filed at least two weeks prior to the test date. Prerequisite for a challenge exam in any formal radiological science training to include one or more of the following: • • • • •

military service training; completion of or credit hours in radiology or CT courses; foreign training programs; other class work, as evaluated by the CT faculty prior to determination of eligibility; Documentation of previous training in a hospital-based program accredited by the JRCERT.

To successfully complete the challenge, the student must pass an exam covering fundamental concepts and demonstrate all competencies required by the course with a grade of “B” or better, and pass a practicum to demonstrate acquisition of essential laboratory skills, if applicable. The following CT courses may be challenged: • •

CTMT 2232-Principles of Computed Tomography CTMT 2236-Computed Tomography Equipment and Methodology

There is a challenge fee of $10 per credit hour, minimum $30 for each course.

EMPLOYMENT Students are advised against full-time employment while enrolled in the DMI-R program. If employment is necessary, students must determine how many hours they can work and continue to meet the requirements of the Program. No special consideration will be afforded students with regard to their employment situations. Should a student be employed in a radiology facility, they may do so only during times when it does not conflict with program activities. Additionally, should a student be employed by a facility where clinical rotation is normally conducted, they may not use any employer time to substitute for program clinical requirements.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION/DEVICES Electronic communication devices such as cell phones and pagers need to be set to the silent mode during class or clinic. Students may not use a cellular phone in the classroom, laboratory or clinical setting. Cell phones may not be substituted for calculators. The use of tape recorders, palm pilots or other personal digital assistant units, and cameras are not to be used in the clinical setting for recording identifiable patient information.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 29

Tape recorders may be used in the classroom to record lectures with faculty permission. Palm Pilots or other programmable personal digital assistant devices may not be used during class or testing. Only nonprogrammable calculators are allowed. The use of laptops to copy proprietary computer programs or other program documents/exams is forbidden. Please note that the program has a site license for instructional computer programs and no attempt should ever be made to copy these programs to either a laptop, flash drive, or CD. To do so will be considered academic dishonesty.

EMAIL All students must be accessible via an electronic mail address. Students may utilize the computers on campus to create and check their email accounts. Email accounts should be checked for new messages at least once or twice each week. Students must have a gmail account that is offered by the college. Faculty are only permitted to communicate with these accounts. For more information: http://www.austincc.edu/google/index.php

INCLEMENT WEATHER In the event that Austin Community College is forced to cancel classes due to inclement weather, Computed Tomography classes and clinical rotations will also be canceled. Notification of closures will be made through local radio and television stations, as well as ACC’s website.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Health professionals receive a high level of public trust and respect. Maintaining academic and clinical integrity is essential to the development of the characteristics required for ethical and professional practice. Therefore, health sciences students must demonstrate ethical, responsible, professional behavior and accountability for their actions throughout the program.

COURSE TEST REVIEW PROCEDURE Because the security of exams is a very important part of the educational process, faculty will designate time, duration, and location for review of written examinations. No writing materials, computers of any sort, or cameras may be used during test reviews. All test reviews will be supervised by faculty. Anyone in violation of this policy will be subject to the Academic Dishonest Policy.

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 30

SAFETY AND HEALTH INFORMATION PREGNANCY POLICY The national Council of Radiation Protection (NCRP) advises that control measures should be taken to avoid or reduce the risk of Ionizing radiation exposure to the human embryo or fetus. It should be noted, however, that the risks of probability of detectable effects induced by medical diagnostic exposure are very small. While it is strictly voluntary, to ensure that extra protective measures be initiated promptly, it is suggested that the student notify the program director of documented pregnancy. The program will keep all information related to the pregnancy strictly confidential. It is the policy of Austin Community College Diagnostic Medical Imaging Program to provide reasonable radiation protection to student radiographers occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation. Declared pregnant students are expected to follow the additional protective measures detailed below which have been developed to restrict the fetal radiation dose to not exceed 0.5 Rem for the entire pregnancy. After declaration, the pregnant student in the Radiography Program will be provided a copy of the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission Guide 8.13 which addresses pre-natal radiation exposure. The guide may also be downloaded from the following website: http:pbadupws.nrc.gov/docs/ML0037/ML003739505.pdf The pregnant student must make the final decision as to their acceptance or non-acceptance of this minimal risk. The following procedure shall be followed if the student declares pregnancy: 1.

2.

3.

Disclosure or declaration of pregnancy is strictly voluntary. To ensure that additional protective measures for the fetus and mother are initiated quickly, the student may wish to inform the Program Director upon medical verification of pregnancy in writing. The Program Director will arrange for the student to review her previous radiation exposure history. The student will be provided with a copy of NRC guide 8.13 and will review protective actions and the risks associated with radiation exposure to the fetus. Upon medical certification that a pregnancy exists and after the student has consulted with her Physician, the student must submit the following forms: • Physicians Awareness of Pregnancy Form: This form provides the approximate date of conception, expected delivery date, and recommended date the student may return to both didactic and clinical education courses. • Pregnancy/Radiation Safety Protection Verification Form : This form declares pregnancy and indicates a choice of options the student may select. The options are:

OPTION #1: LEAVE OF ABSENCE DURING PREGNANCY: If the student so decides, she may elect to leave the program during the pregnancy period. a. b.

If the student decides to accept this option and leave the program, she must immediately notify the Department Chair/Program Director in writing. An Incomplete (Inc.) will be awarded for the course(s) in progress. The remaining coursework may be completed upon the students return, however it may not be feasible for the student to re-enter the program immediately since all courses are offered chronologically and only once a year. 2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 31

c.

All didactic and clinical coursework must be completed prior to completion and graduation from the program.

OPTION #2: REMAIN IN THE PROGRAM WITH NO MODIFICATIONS OF HER CLINICAL OR LAB ACTIVITIES: If the student so decides, she may continue in the Program with the following requirements: a. b.

c.

d.

The student is required to review and implement radiation safety practices as outlined by NCR Guide 8.13. The student’s class, lab, or clinical schedule will not be modified to postpone instructional activities that can result in increased radiation exposure to the student. These activities include fluoroscopy, portable radiography, surgery/C-arm Procedures, angiography, and lab experiments utilizing energized equipment. Exception to this policy are any procedures involving Nuclear Medicine imaging or the implanting of “radioactive seeds” used in Brachytherapy. Because of the potential of an increased exposure to radiation during these Nuclear Medicine/Radiation Therapy Procedures, strict avoidance is recommended. The student is required to wear two exposure-monitoring devices: • Fetal badge that is changed monthly • Regular radiation dosimeter that is processed quarterly. The student may wear a wrap-around lead apron during exposures to radiation. Lead aprons Lead aprons of 0.5 mm lead equivalency are considered sufficient to attenuate 88% of the beam at 75 kVp. Above 75 kVp, aprons with 1.0 mm lead are recommended.

OPTION #3: REMAIN IN THE PROGRAM WITH MODIFICATION OF HER CLINICAL AND/OR LAB ACTIVITIES: a. b.

c.

d.

4.

The student is required to review and implement radiation safety practices as outlined by NRC Guide 8.13. The student may request modification of her schedule to postpone any procedures in class, lab, or clinic which can result in increased exposure to radiation. These activities include but are not limited to conventional fluoroscopy, portable radiography, Surgery/C-arm procedures, angiography, and lab experiments/projects using energized radiographic equipment. It should be noted that the student cannot graduate from the program until any clinical competencies using the listed modalities/procedures have been successfully completed and competency is achieved. The student is required to wear two exposure monitoring devices: • Fetal Badge that will be changed monthly • Regular TLD that is changed quarterly. The student should wear a lead apron of 0.5mm pb equivalency during any exposures and must always stay behind the control console for maximum protection. It is the students right to also withdraw her pregnancy declaration at any time. Should a pregnant student elect to undeclared, she must do so in writing to the Program Director.

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CLINICAL/PRACTICUM POLICIES CLINICAL EDUCATION INFORMATION The purpose of this information is to identify the criteria essential to the successful completion of clinical education in the Diagnostic Medical Imaging-CT Program.

CLINICAL PRACTICUM COURSES There is a total of one (1) clinical semester during which the student is expected to master basic, intermediate, and advanced skills in computed tomography procedures on actual patients. Each clinical semester the student will be required to demonstrate competency in performing specific CT Procedures from a master list.

CLINICAL PRACTICUM The purpose of this information is to identify the criteria essential to the successful completion of clinical education in the Diagnostic Medical Imaging-CT program. There is a total of one (1) clinical semester during which the student is expected to master basic, intermediate, and advanced skills in CT procedures. Each clinical semester will require the student to demonstrate competency in performing CT Procedures from the ARRT guidelines.

INITIAL AND RECHECK COMPETENCY During each clinical semester, students are expected to successfully perform the designated minimum number of examinations for that semester. The initial and recheck competency evaluations must be performed on actual patients. The student must inform the staff technologist prior to the beginning of the examination that they wish to demonstrate competency. The staff technologist will directly supervise the student. A competency examination must be completed by the student without the assistance from the technologist. If the student is given assistance from the technologist, then the competency evaluation is invalid. Competency forms must be completed and signed by a CT registered technologist. Please Note: If an instructor asks a student to perform a particular competency exam, a grade will be assigned whether or not the student is prepared to do the exam. According to ARRT guidelines, only one procedure can be documented on one patient.

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CLINICAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION PROTOCOL OVERVIEW The intent of these clinical procedure guidelines is to provide a format for evaluation of proficient clinical performance.

STEP 1 – CLINICAL OBSERVATION AND ASSISTANCE As the student begins clinical education, active participation is limited until the student has had the opportunity to observe some of these procedures. At that point the rate of progress is dependent upon the student’s ability to perform the tasks assigned by the instructor or staff technologist in that area.

STEP 2 – DIRECTLY SUPERVISED PERFORMANCE After becoming competent in a given procedure, the student will actually perform the examination under direct supervision of a College faculty member or staff technologist. Direct supervision means that an R.T.(R.)(CT) is immediately present verifying positioning and parameter requirements.

STEP 3 – PROCEDURE EVALUATION Once steps 1 and 2 are complete, the instructor or staff technologist will complete a initial competency evaluation. If successful, the student can perform these examinations independently. But should the student prove unsuccessful on this evaluation, the student will meet with the faculty in a formal conference to discuss remediation. A written Health Science Conference Report will identify specific remediation objectives and deadlines for completion. The student may then attempt a second evaluation of the same procedure. Should the student be unsuccessful at this second attempt, the student will be placed on probation for failure to progress in a satisfactory manner and remediation will be mandatory. The student will meet with faculty and be given a Health Science Conference Report with specific remediation objectives and deadlines for completion. The student may then attempt a third evaluation of the same procedure. Should the student be unsuccessful on the third attempt, the student will be withdrawn from the CT program. If at any time the student does not comply with all the terms outlined in the Health Sciences Conference Report, the student will be withdrawn from the CT program.

STEP 4 – PERFORMANCE UNDER LIMITED SUPERVISION Upon successful completion of the evaluation, the student is permitted to perform the examination with limited supervision. Limited supervision indicates that a R.T.(CT) is in the area in the event of questions/problems and to review finished CT images. *When performing an examination on an actual patient, should a repeat image procedure be necessary, a registered technologist must be present for the repeated exam.

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PROCEDURE EVALUATION ON RECHECK COMPETENCY EVALUATION Upon successful completion of the initial competency, the student is expected to maintain mastery of the examination. A recheck examination of the initial exam must be successfully completed to verify retention. If the student fails to demonstrate retention on the recheck evaluation, the student will be placed on probation for failure to progress in a satisfactory manner and remediation will be mandatory. The student will meet with the faculty in a formal conference to review the performance deficit(s). A written Health Science Conference Report will identify specific remediation objectives and deadlines for completion to assist the student to correct the deficit(s). If at any time the student does not comply with all the terms outlined in the Health Science Conference Report, the student will be withdrawn from the CT program. At a later date and after remediation, the student will attempt the recheck examination. If the second attempt is unsuccessful, the student will be withdrawn from the Computed Tomography Program.

STUDENT SUPERVISION AFTER COMPETENCY IS ACHIEVED After demonstrating competency on any CT procedure from the list of clinical objectives, students may perform these examinations with direct or indirect supervision. Direct Supervision requires that a qualified CT technologist be physically present during the procedure. Indirect Supervision requires that a qualified CT technologist be in close proximity, but not in the CT room. • •

Students may not transport patients unless they are accompanied by an employee of the facility. Students may not answer departmental phones or pagers

CLINICAL ROTATIONS The clinical rotations are planned and designed to provide each student similar educational/clinical experiences, although this may not occur at identical sites. The program is affiliated with a number of healthcare and imaging facilities in Austin and the surrounding area. Any student, regardless of where they live, could be scheduled at a site a long distance from their residence during the course of the program. Should a student refuse to attend a distant clinical site assignment, completion of the program may be delayed or withdrawal from the program may be necessary.

CREDENTIALING EXAMINATION During the clinical component of the program, the student will be required to maintain a procedure log which is required by the ARRT to document eligibility to sit and write the credentialing examination. It is important to note that it is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all required procedures be documented and recorded. In the event that the student does not complete the required number of procedures needed to qualify for the ARRT CT examination during the program, then the student will need to complete the requirements independently outside of the program. 2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 35

CLINICAL EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS The ARRT requires 125 repetitions across all selected procedure categories to be eligible to apply to take the registry examination. The number of repetitions is attainable over the semester, however some students may not be able to complete all the required repetitions to apply for the registry. It will therefore be the responsibility of the student to acquire all necessary repetitions on his/her own time. The post program repetitions will also require the verification signature of a registered CT Technologist or Radiologist. It will be the responsibility of the student to ensure proper documentation is attained for these repetitions. Please refer to the ARRT website for more information with regard to eligibility guidelines and requirements. The web address is: http://www.arrt.org.

CT PROGRAM CLINICAL REQUIREMENTS—FALL 2014 1. 2. 3.

4. 5. 6.

Choose a minimum of 25 different procedures out of the 59 procedures. Please see ARRT website for list of CT clinical experience requirements procedures. Complete and document a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 repetitions of each chosen procedure; less than three will not be counted toward the total. No more than one procedure may be documented on one patient. For example, if an order requests chest, abdomen, and pelvis scans for one patient, only one of these may be documented for clinical experience documentation. Computed Tomography procedures performed in conjunction with a PET or SPECT procedure or Radiation Therapy planning procedure must be of diagnostic quality. A minimum total of 125 repetitions across all procedures is required. Students will be required to keep a record of all exams completed. Students will be provided an exam logbook to organize exams performed by category. CT faculty will periodically audit the logbooks. It is strongly suggested that the student continue to complete exams beyond the program requirements. The ARRT requires 125 repetitions to become registry eligible.

Please Note: The clinical observation form, initial competency, and recheck competency must be performed on three separate patients.

CARDIAC LIFE SUPPORT All students in the Diagnostic Medical Imaging Program must maintain current healthcare provider certification in order to be eligible for clinical assignments. The required CPR must be American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers. The card verifying completion must be an American Heart Association card for Healthcare Providers. (Please note that CPR cards from the Red Cross CPR or CPR Resources will not be accepted).

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ATTENDANCE POLICY The clinical components comprise a very large portion of the student’s learning activities. Regular and punctual attendance is required, for the full day assigned. The attendance policy is much stricter than for regular college classes. Clinical sites are intolerant of tardies and absences. Since punctuality, consistent attendance, and participating with patient exams are key factors to successful completion of the program, there must be controlling factors in place to accomplish these objectives. Students are involved with clinical rotations for five semesters. The following is a breakdown of the semesters involved, and the total number of absences that may be missed without consequence. Semester

Course #

Hours/Week and Days

Max. Allowed Absences

Fall

CTMT 2460

24 hours (Mon, Wed, Fri)

3

Absences from or tardiness to clinical rotations for reasons other than health or emergencies will not be tolerated, and the student will be subject to actions of the Progressive Discipline Policy which may result in withdrawal from the Program, or at the least in lowering of the clinical earned grade. All absences greater than the 2 or 3 maximum allowed (depending on which semester is affected) must be made up if considered to be excused. Excused absences are only allowed in special, well-documented situations such as an accident, unavoidable visit to a physician for medical care with a signed document, bereavement involving the death of a close relative with a funeral notice or other document, etc. Unexcused absences over the maximum allowed will result in a drop in the clinical grade (example: if the earned clinical grade is an A, an extra unexcused absence results in a drop to a B grade; two extra unexcused absences result in a drop to a C grade). It should be noted that a “D” grade is not acceptable in Radiology Program courses and will result in the student being withdrawn from the program In the case of excused absences that require make-up days to be assigned, only Program faculty may assign makeup time, in coordination with the clinical site. As a normal course of events, they would occur on the same days of the week and at the same time as a normal clinic day, but occur at the semester’s end. If excess excused absences are accrued that cannot be made up before semester’s end, an incomplete grade may be the result, with make-up days being carried over to the next semester. Some types of injuries or illnesses where a student is unable to attend clinical rotations for a protracted period of time may result in the withdrawal of the student. Please note that students are expected to be fully engaged in patient care during the hours of clinical rotations, as are persons on the regular staff. Most clinical agencies view the presence of a person who is injured or ill as a risk liability to their clients who are receiving care. Therefore, please do not plan to be present if an illness or injury has rendered you unable to offer fully-engaged patient care. If you sustain an injury that keeps you out of clinic due to your physical condition, you can expect to be required by both the College and the clinical site to present documentation from a physician that you are released from care and able to work.

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TARDIES Clinical days are from 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM or as designated by your assigned clinical agency. All students should be ready to work by 7:30 AM. Students will be considered late if they are not in their assigned clinical areas by 7:37 AM (8:07 at clinical agencies which begin their clinical day at 8:00 AM). Only two tardies will be allowed in any clinical semester. If a third tardy is accrued, an absence will be deducted. If a student leaves the clinical agency early, an absence will be given for the entire day. Please Note: If you have used your maximum allowed absences and a third tardy is accrued, a letter grade will be deducted from your total clinical grade. Also, if a student is tardy, they must be in the clinical area by 9:00 AM on that day. If the student should be later than 9:00 AM, an absence will be deducted.

PICTURE ID’S All clinical agencies require a wearable picture ID. Name tags with a picture are provided via a $3 fee with tuition. A time will be arranged for students to have pictures made. Lost ID’s may include a fee for replacement. nd

Some clinical agencies require a 2 ID to be made at their site. There is usually a fee that will be refunded at the end of the clinical rotation.

DRESS CODE--GENERAL INFORMATION 1.

The appearance of all students must generate confidence and respect from patients, families, and other consumers from the community in all clinical agencies.

2.

All students shall present a clean, neat appearance and dress in an appropriate manner for a health care environment. Extreme styles, recreational clothing, excessive jewelry, heavy perfumes, or excessive make-up shall not be considered appropriate work attire.

3.

IDENTIFICATION: All students are required to wear a picture identification badge, provided by the College, at all times in the clinical setting. The picture and student name shall not be hidden or obscured in any manner. Additionally, all students shall wear the Program patch while on clinical duty. No other insignia is considered appropriate. No arm bands, novelty buttons/pins, hats shall be permitted.

4.

RADIATION MONITORING: TLDs shall be worn at all times in the clinical environment. TLDs shall be worn at the collar level outside the lead apron and/or thyroid shield. Failure to wear your TLD in the clinical environment will result in dismissal for the day and an absence will be recorded.

5.

Hair (including wigs/hair pieces) shall be kept clean and neat. Long hair shall be pulled back from the face. Hair shall not be abnormal in color (blue, green, purple, etc.). Beards and mustaches are acceptable if kept clean and trimmed.

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6.

Fingernails shall be well groomed and clean with a maximum length of ¼” beyond the finger tip. Artificial nails and nail tips are prohibited by all clinical affiliates. Nail polish shall not be black or any morbid color.

7.

Jewelry other than wedding/engagement rings and wrist watches are discouraged. No dangling earrings shall be worn. Visibly pierced body parts other than ears are not acceptable.

8.

All tattoos shall be covered.

9.

Shoes shall be kept clean and in good repair.

10.

When student rotations require entry into sterile environments, i.e. surgery, special procedures and/or heart catheterization labs, etc., surgical caps designed to cover ALL head and facial hair shall be worn. Surgical masks and shoe covers shall be worn when appropriate. If special clothing is required, it is usually provided by the clinical agency and will be donned at the clinical site. (NOTE: Surgical scrub attire is the property of the clinical agency; removing it from the site may be interpreted as stealing).

11.

All student clinical attire shall consist of: a.

Teal blue uniform pants. Either tie or elastic waist.

b.

Teal blue scrub shirt. Long or short sleeves are acceptable. No sleeveless Tshirts or shirts without collars.

c.

Teal blue uniform vests may be worn.

d.

Undergarments and socks shall be worn.

e.

Only white or teal blue long sleeved lab coats are appropriate. (Each student shall have at least one.)

f.

Only completely white athletic type or nursing shoes shall be worn. Only white shoestrings are appropriate. No sandals, heeled dress shoes, opened toe shoes or other footwear is acceptable.

g.

No mid calf or stirrup pants or spandex garments of any type shall be worn.

h.

Chest hair, midriff, cleavage, or buttocks shall not be exposed.

12. Laboratory Attire a.

When students are working in the radiology laboratories it is strongly recommended that surgical scrubs be worn.

b.

All students must wear close-toed shoes when working in the lab. Sandals and flip flops will not be allowed. 2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 39

PATIENT CARE AND MANAGEMENT At the completion of training, the graduate will demonstrate an ability to exercise the following quality of care practices: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

The graduate will demonstrate skills in providing quality patient care. The graduate will demonstrate compassion and understanding for any patient under his/her care. The graduate will do everything possible to ensure that the dignity of the patient is preserved. The graduate will communicate effectively with the patient, physicians, coworkers and other members of the healthcare team. The graduate will not express medical opinions to the patient. The graduate will demonstrate ability to educate the patient about any CT examination. The graduate will accurately perform and record vital signs. The graduate will demonstrate safe O2 administration. The graduate will maintain a current AHA American Heart Association Health Care Provider CPR certification. The graduate will demonstrate safe venipuncture. The graduate will demonstrate safe aseptic technique.

CT PROCEDURES At the completion of training, the students will have demonstrated competency in performing basic CT procedures for the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Head & Neck Spine & Musculoskeletal Chest Abdomen & Pelvis Special Procedures Image Display & Post Processing Quality Assurance

GENERAL INFORMATION COUNSELING/STUDENT SERVICES Many counseling services are available at the EVC campus and all other major ACC campuses. If you have questions or problems in any of the following areas, please contact the Student Services Department: Academic Concerns - Study Techniques, Test Taking, Time Management, Lecture or Clinical Concerns, Instructor Conflicts, etc. Personal Concerns - Relaxation Techniques, Assertiveness, Communication, Family or Social Pressures, etc. Career Concerns - Career Decisions or Questions, Career Information, Resume Writing, Interviewing, Resources for Job Information, etc.

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Financial Concerns - Basic Financial Aid Information and Forms, Resources to contact for further information of scholarships, loans, etc. (More assistance can be obtained from the Financial Aid Offices)

LIBRARY/LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER (LRC) The Round Rock Library is located on the third floor of Building 1000. Library hours are: Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Friday 7:30-5:00 p.m. Saturday/Sunday – closed Hours are subject to change and therefore should be checked each semester. The hours will be posted on the library door. The Round Rock Library serves as a superb medical resource facility and students should become familiar with it as soon as possible.

COMPUTERS Computers are available for student use on the EVC and RRC campus at the LRC. There is no charge for computer use. However, it is recommended that you reserve a computer if your time is limited. Available hours are the same as for the LRC. Please note that an ACC student picture ID will be required for library and computer use. The Austin Community College Health Science Division Policies and Procedures have been compiled by the Health Sciences faculty to provide information pertinent to all students in the Health Science programs. These policies and procedures should be used as a supplement to the Austin Community College Catalog and the program specific student handbook. The Health Sciences programs prohibit discrimination. Access to its programs or activities shall not be limited on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or disability We wish you success in the pursuit of your educational goals.

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STUDENT SIGNATURE SHEET Please read each statement below. Initial each statement in the space indicated and provide your name, signature, and date below. ____ I have read and agree to, and will comply with the student policies as outlined in the Student Handbook. Furthermore, I will agree to and will comply with the course requirements as listed in the Syllabus and Student Policies of Diagnostic Medical Imaging-CT ____ I understand that while performing my regularly assigned duties, I may be exposed to blood, body fluids, or tissues. I will use the appropriate personal protective equipment required when there is an inherent potential for mucous membrane or skin contact with blood, body fluids or tissues, or a potential for spills or splashes of them. Appropriate protection may include the use of gloves, gowns, masks, face shields, eye protection, mouthpieces, resuscitation bags, and other protective equipment. I understand that if I fail to use available personal protective equipment, I may be subject to disciplinary action. ____I have been informed regarding the inherent health/safety hazards in the healthcare field and release ACC from any liability for such hazards. ____I have read and agree to the “Substance Abuse Administrative Policy.” ____I understand that some clinical agencies may require a pre-placement drug screen at my expense. ____I agree to criminal background checks and agree to immediately notify the Dean of Health Sciences in writing of any subsequent changes in criminal history that occur after the admission background check has been completed. ____I will complete all clinical educational training modules and submit signed documentation to the Program as required.

Printed Name

Signature

Date

___________

2014-2015 DMI-CT Student Handbook ● 42

Revised August 2014

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