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Surgical Technology
Handbook
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Table of Contents
ST Staff and Contact Information .pg 3
ST Description, Program Mission, College Mission,
Program Goals, and Program Goal Expectations pg 4
Admission procedures, Re-Admission Procedures, Certificate Degree Information,
Associate Degree Information pg 5
Attendance Policies pg 7
Classroom and Internet Guidelines pg 9
Clinical Guidelines pg 10
Professional Behavior Guidelines pg 11
Appearance Guidelines pg 12
First and Second Scrub Role and Observation Definitions, case requirements pg 13
Surgical Specialties pg 14
Due Process and Appeal Mechanism pg 15
Plan of Action Form pg 18
Student Conferences and Student Counseling pg 19
Accident/Incident Information, Liability Insurance pg 20
ST Blood borne Pathogen Exposure Procedure pg 21
Clinical Placement Information pg 22
Confidentiality Agreement pg 23
Pregnancy Form pg 24
Handbook Acknowledgement Form pg 25
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Surgical Technology Staff
Program Coordinator:
Toni Shantz
Presentation College – Fairmont Campus
115 S Park St
Fairmont, MN 56031
(507) 235-4658
ST Faculty:
Dr. Randy Mages
Presentation College – Aberdeen Campus
1500 N Main
Aberdeen, SD 57401
(605) 229-8415
Changes may occur to this handbook, you will be notified as the changes are made.
The Surgical Technologist
The Surgical Technologist is a skillful surgical team member who prepares and participates in
surgical procedures. Surgical ancillary duties include: application of conscientious patient cares
(e.g. surgical wound preparation or Foley catheter insertion), development and management of
the sterile field, methodical disinfection of the operating room and surgical equipment,
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specialized cleaning, inspection and sterilization of instruments and supplies with proper
verification of techniques, and assisting during surgical procedures (e.g. holding retractors,
suctioning wounds, and cutting sutures). Surgical employment can be found in a hospital,
surgery center, trauma center, or doctor’s office. The program consists of academic courses
integrated with clinical requirements based in a hospital setting. For national surgical technology
information visit
www.ast.org
Program Mission
The mission of this Surgical Technology Program is to develop surgical technology student into
responsible operating room team member. Program graduates will work to promote and maintain
healthy patient outcomes in the surgical environment. Each gradate will be a skilled and
experienced asset to any surgical community.
College Mission
Welcoming people of all faiths, Presentation College challenges learners toward academic
excellence, and in the Catholic tradition, the development of the whole person.
Program Goals
The goal of this program is to provide students with the opportunity to develop the skills and
knowledge necessary to gain employment as surgical technologists and become contributing
members of the health care team. This will be accomplished by (1) preparing competent
graduates in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning domains, and (2) meeting or
exceeding the criteria set forth in the current Standards and Guidelines for an Accredited
Educational Program in Surgical Technology.
Program Goal Expectations
Upon program completion, the graduate will be able to:
Correlate the knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pathphysiology, and microbiology to
their role as a Surgical Technologist.
Demonstrate a safe level of practice and knowledge in their role as a Surgical
Technologist.
Acquire an understanding of the ethical, legal, moral, and medical values related to the
patient and the Operating Room team during the perioperative experience.
Correlate the elements, action, and use of medications and anesthetic agents used during
the perioperative experience.
Demonstrate safe practice techniques in regards to perioperative routines, patient
transportation, positioning, and emergency procedures.
Demonstrate and integrate principle of surgical asepsis as part of the perioperative
experience.
Value the professional attributes of the Surgical Technologist.
Admission
Students must:
1. Have a minimum GPA of 2.20 or successful completion of GED test 2. Have a minimum ACT composite score of 18
3. Complete the technology competency test (see page 17 of college catalog) 4. Apply to the Surgical Technology program
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6. Have a professional character reference completed
7. Complete required immunization and physical evaluation records
8. Complete a background check in accordance with affiliate and/or state requirements; cost incurred by students (except in Minnesota)
9. Have CPR certification
A limited number of positions for this program are available each year. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. After acceptance, a background screening will be required on a yearly basis with the expense paid by students. In order to take the certification exam students must have no felony convictions.
Progression
Surgical Technology faculty will evaluate ST students during the Spring and Summer semesters. Progression requirements are as follows:
1. A “C” or above must be earned in all Surgical Technology (ST) courses 2. All Surgical Technology courses must be completed in the order of the checklist 3. Students may re-take an ST required course only once – see Readmission requirements 4. Minimum 2.50 term GPA
5. Students must demonstrate performance consistent with the criteria established by all clinical affiliations and the following technical and physical standards of the program. In order to ensure patient safety surgical technology students must: a. Maintain vision, hearing, and the appropriate ability to articulate words necessary to observe and communicate effectively in surgery
b. Maintain the physical functions needed to respond appropriately to a patient’s needs including: standing for long periods of time, holding retractors for long periods of time, twisting and bending at the waist, carrying and lifting heavy trays of
instruments, pushing surgical carts and equipment, lifting of heavy items, transferring patients to and from surgery, and using fine motor skills and manual dexterity needed to operate surgical supplies, instruments, and equipment
c. Exhibit meticulous attention to aseptic and sterile technique
d. Demonstrate a technological intelligence to prepare surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies e. Present the anticipatory ability necessary to understand the surgeon’s timely needs
f. Demonstrate and apply the intellectual and emotional functions needed to exercise independent judgment and discretion in the performance of assigned responsibilities
6. Students must complete 125 cases and 600 hours of clinical practicum before graduation Failure to meet the above criteria will result in dismissal from the program
Readmission
If students take a leave from the program greater than one semester or transfer to Presentation College from another Surgical Technology program, a variable topics course will be used to assess current competency levels. Following assessment, didactic, lab, or clinical requirements will be constructed. A “C” or above and a term GPA of 2.50 or greater must be maintained before advanced placement is permitted.
PC’s Online Completion of the Associate of Science in Surgical
Technology’s
Admission and Progression Procedures
Admission to the Associate of Science in Surgical Technology Degree - Completion
Program Requirements
1. Complete a college application.
2. Official college transcripts will need to be turned in to the admissions office.
3. A copy of the certificate in surgical technology must also be delivered to the admissions office
this must be a
NBSTSA Certification
(which demonstrate completion of an accredited ST
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program either
CAAHEP
or
ABHES
– as they only allow graduates from these accredited
programs to sit for their exam)
4. Transfer GPA of 2.5 or greater
5. ACT scores will also need to be sent to the admissions office.
6. Complete and pass the computer competency test.
7. The COMPASS test must be taken to determine math placement.
Progression in the ST Associate Degree Completion Program
1. A “
C”
or above must be earned in all courses.
2. A program 2.5 GPA must be maintained
3. Must meet college competency requirements for the associate degree.
PC’s Surgical Technology Technical Standards
1. Maintain vision, hearing, and the appropriate ability to articulate words necessary to observe
and communicate effectively in surgery.
2. Maintain the physical functions needed to respond appropriately to a patient’s needs including:
Standing for long periods of time, holding retractors for long periods of time, twisting and
bending at the waist, carrying and lifting heavy trays of instruments, pushing surgical carts and
equipment, lifting of heavy items, transferring patients to and from surgery, using fine motor
skills and manual dexterity needed to operate surgical supplies, instruments, and equipment.
3. Exhibit meticulous attention to aseptic and sterile technique.
4. Demonstrate a technological intelligence to prepare surgical instruments, equipment, and
supplies.
5. Present the anticipatory ability necessary to understand the surgeon’s timely needs.
6. Demonstrate and apply the intellectual and emotional functions needed to exercise
independent judgment and discretion in the performance of assigned responsibilities.
Failure to meet the above criteria will result in dismissal from the program
Re-Admission to the Surgical Technology Program
If a student has taken leave from the program and allowed a time lapse of greater than one
semester between Surgical Technology courses or transfers from another Surgical Technology
program a variable topics course will be used to assess current competency levels. Following
assessment, didactic, lab, or clinical requirements will be constructed and must be completed
with a “C” average before advanced placement is permitted.
Certificate Degree
A Certificate in Surgical Technology is granted to those students successfully completing the
outlined curriculum and Presentation College’s graduation requirements.
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Certification (CST)
Students who successfully complete the Certificate in Surgical Technology at Presentation
College are eligible to take the national certification examination one month prior to graduation
or after graduation. Certification information can be found at
www.nbstsa.org
Attendance Policy
Each student is expected to attend all scheduled classroom, internet, hybrid, clinical lab, and
clinical course requirements. In academic classroom and internet courses, grades are earned on
the basis of the student’s attainment of the course objectives; but regular and punctual attendance
is expected. In lab and clinic based courses, attendance is one of the factors that will be evaluated
weekly. Guidelines for missed clinical and lab days are established and failure to comply may
result in withdrawal from the program.
Review the Classroom, Internet, Lab, and Clinical Attendance Guidelines,
because of the
importance of attendance, students will be expected to adhere to these guidelines. If a student is
absent more than the established criteria allows; the student will be expected to participate in a
conference
with the Program Coordinator and Clinical or Didactic Instructor.
Tradition Classroom, ITV Classroom, Internet Classroom, Clinical Lab, and Clinical
Practicum Attendance
Each student is expected to attend every class, and be on time. If for any reason a student must be absent from class; the responsibility of making up works rests entirely upon the student. (Refer to College Catalog)
Surgical Technology Classes: Attendance is required at all class periods. The information presented is critical to safe and competent patient care.
Absence: In the event of an excusable absence (illness, family emergency, or as determined by instructor) the student must contact the instructor prior to the scheduled class time. Voicemail message, e-mail, or Blackboard message is acceptable. An excused absence from class will allow make-up work, but it is the student’s responsibility to communicate, obtain, and complete. School sponsored absences are given accommodations, but students are responsible to communicate, obtain, and complete all missed assignments.
• One to Three Missed Classes: a verbal warning is given and missed material must be completed on the student’s own time
• Over Three Missed Classes: a Plan of Action form will be filled out and disciplinary actions may follow. A letter grade reduction of the final grade may be given or student may be removed from the Surgical Technology Program (up to the Program Director)
Classroom Tardiness: All students are expected to report to class on time. Any student who is not ready for class at the start time is considered tardy. All missed work is the responsibility of the student. Students
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may not interrupt a class; they must enter quietly and with consideration of all students and instructors present.
Lab Absence due to School Cancellation: If school is cancelled do not attend class on that day.
Hour Late: any student who is tardy by 1 hour may be considered an unexcused absence, unless approved by the Clinical Coordinator. (If not unexcused absence it will be considered a tardy) Lab Absence due to School Cancellation: If school is cancelled do not attend lab on that day. ST Clinical Labs are career learning experiences that are critical to entry level skills.
Attendance is mandatory.
Makeup time is difficult to arrange and usually expensive.
All missed clinical time must be completed within the timeframe designated by the clinical lab instructor (i.e. before the next lab you may need to meet the requirements of the last lab).
Attendance to ST lab clinical is viewed as a behavioral indication of the student’s sense of responsibility and accountability.
Before leaving a surgical procedure, the student must ask the surgeon to be excused and inform the OR staff (preferably 10-15 minutes before departure to allow time for replacement). This is common courtesy in the OR. Leaving an OR without permission can be considered abandonment of the patient. So during ST lab clinical the same theory applies.
Punctuality is expected for your initial arrival as well as any assignments throughout the day.
Clinical Attendance
Importance of Attendance: Clinical is a career learning experience that is critical to entry level skills. Attendance is mandatory. Makeup time is difficult to arrange and usually expensive. Any costs involved in a makeup clinical will be paid by the students prior to participation in the makeup time. All missed clinical time must be completed. Attendance at clinical is viewed as a behavioral indication of the student’s sense of responsibility and accountability.
If a student is going to miss a clinical day the clinical coordinator and the clinical site must be notified, please e-mail or call and state the clinical coordinator and the clinical site (preceptor) stating a reason for the absence.
The student is also responsible to notify the clinical site (assigned preceptor), call and leave a message before or around the clinical start time; this must be done the morning of the absence.
Clinical attendance is mandatory; all missed clinical time must be completed.
If the Clinical Site and Clinical Coordinator have not both been notified the absence is considered unexcused.
Any missed clinical time must be completed within 2 weeks (unless otherwise approved by the Clinical Coordinator).
Failure to make-up clinical time within time frame allotted may result in a letter grade reduction of the final grade. A Plan of Action form will also be filled out.
Classroom and Internet Guidelines
Students may bring snacks or drinks into the classroom provided that they do not interfere with class and that the student cleans up after themselves. No snacks or drinks near the instruments or in the lab. Students should be prompt to class or internet chat room. Class starts according to classroom clock. Internet meetings are TBA.
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See internet or hybrid course schedules for meeting times and assignment and test due dates.
Come prepared to class; bring everything necessary that applies to that particular class. You are expected to keep track of all papers/forms handed out to you or located on line for each class.
You are expected to be prepared for class. Reading and studying will allow you to get more out of your class time. It is expected that you will read your text and be prepared for discussion daily.
If there is any change of a student’s address, phone number, marital status, and/or medical history the student must inform the Program Director and Clinical Coordinator as soon as possible.
Portable communication devices (phones and pagers) must be turned off during class.
Instructor may allow internet if it pertains to lecture or notes. Accessing e-mail information in class is not appropriate, and this can wait until completion of lecture.
Progression in ST Program: A “C” grade or better is required in each course to progress to the next semester. Any student receiving a grade of less than the required minimum will be counseled on options.
Clinical Guidelines
Travel is mandatory
for clinical experience; all expenses incurred due to this travel will be paid
by the student (gas and hotel fees).
The Clinical Coordinator and Program Coordinator
dictate
the placement of students in clinical
sites.
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Clinical assignments will be
scheduled and monitored
by the Clinical Coordinator.
Each student must
follow hospital policies
at all times.
A breach in
patient confidentiality
will not be tolerated.
Students will be
supervised
by an experienced surgical technologist at all clinical site.
Students are
evaluated
on their clinical performance by the Clinical Coordinator, Assigned
Preceptor, and staff.
Students will
not work in place of
a Staff Surgical Technologist.
Students are
not
monetarily
compensated
for clinical hours.
Problems or concerns
regarding clinical skill s and performance will be
directed to the
Clinical Coordinator
. The Clinical Coordinator will communicate concerns to the Program
Coordinator as needed.
All Clinical Students
have classroom experience
covering sterile technique, instrument/supplies
function and identification, instrument/supplies handling and care, patient care and safety,
environmental safety standards, surgical case management, wound healing, suture, and staplers,
standards of conduct, trauma and pediatric patients, medical terminology, anatomy and
physiology, and microbiology.
All Clinical Students
concurrently
take Surgical Technology courses at the same time that they
are fulfilling clinical practicum hours. It is recommended that the students allow plenty of time
for class involvement and devote time to study and prepare for each day. A job outside of school
will be very difficult to juggle.
Clinical
Students will be assigned call-hours
starting in the middle of the first semester and
continuing through all of the second semester. They are in addition to regular staff, not a
replacement. Students are supervised by an Experienced Surgical Technologist on-call.
All Clinical Students will need to follow hospital policies and
procedures.
Professional Behavior Guidelines
These guidelines have been developed to outline the Surgical Technology Program’s high standards and
expectations of each student, and equally important they may also indirectly or directly affect patient outcomes. It is important that each student understand that earning respect through professional behaviors involves more than just displaying the competence of a surgical technology skill or surgical technology didactic understanding; each student must also demonstrate an understanding that their appearance and behavior are a reflection of the respect for themselves, the College, the Affiliates, and for their profession. This includes the perceptions of the general public who may be aware of each student’s role as a surgical technologist.
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Objective: Each ST student will demonstrate the professional and behavioral commitments needed to reflect respect for Presentation College’s Surgical Technology Program, PC faculty, PC clinical staff, other students, as well as themselves.
• Interpersonal relations are important in the class and medical environment. Students are expected to treat all persons with dignity and respect. This means that a positive attitude needs to be maintained by all students.
• At clinical, please show courtesy and respect to faculty, patients, family, physicians and staff. Do not get into verbal disagreements. If a situation gets out of hand, you can stop talking for a while. The situation can then be dealt with when everyone is calm.
• Please keep noise and idle chatter to a minimum in hallways and especially during a surgical procedure. Remember, no matter what you perceive is happening, you are always responsible for your own actions. • When dealing with problems try to work with the individual involved. If you are having a problem concerning clinical staff or any situation you feel is inappropriate report this to the Clinical Coordinator for assistance.
• If you are having a problem concerning a Clinical Coordinator please speak directly with that person to resolve the problem. If this does not resolve the situation you then contact the Program Coordinator. • If you are having a problem with a Program Director please speak to that person directly to resolve the problem. If this does not resolve the situation you will be directed to the Allied Health Department Chair. Please be professional and follow this chain.
• It is not acceptable to badmouth any fellow student, staff member, physician, faculty member, or patient. This is not constructive behavior. If you have trouble with anger or dealing with others, counseling is available. Students can be written up (Plan of Action form) for participation in bad mouthing others, making lewd remarks, gossiping about other staff members, or any other behavior found to be unprofessional. In society this can be interpreted as slander or defamation of character.
• Since faculty, clinical staff, and preceptors communicate student information to the College which may influence a student’s clinical assessment it is inappropriate to participate in certain activities with faculty, clinical staff, and preceptors outside the clinical setting.
• Surgical technology questions relative to a student’s clinical experience should be researched and referenced at the clinical site; once away from the clinical site a student may only contact the clinical instructor or other ST faculty. Preceptors and medical staff may not be contacted by students during non-clinical hours.
• Personal time away from the clinical site spent in the hospital’s community or the college’s community should not reflect behaviors that can negatively influence the College’s, clinical Affiliate’s, publics, patient’s, or other student’s perceptions of the student.
• Before leaving a surgical procedure, the student must ask the surgeon to be excused and inform the OR staff (preferably 10-15 minutes before departure to allow time for replacement). This is common courtesy in the OR. Leaving an OR without permission can be considered abandonment of the patient. Leaving the OR before an assigned procedure is complete may exclude that surgical procedure from being recorded in the student’s case logs. Punctuality is expected for your initial arrival as well as any assignments
throughout the day. It is the position of this Surgical Technology Program that every conflict involving a student’s unprofessional behavior will be open to individual evaluation by the Program Director and Clinical Coordinator, and are not limited to this list.
All Clinical Students will need to follow hospital policies and procedures.
Appearance Guidelines
These guidelines have been developed to outline the Surgical Technology Program’s high standards and expectations of each student, and equally important they may also indirectly or directly affect patient outcomes. It is important that each student understand that earning respect through professional behaviors involves more than just displaying the competence of a surgical technology skill or surgical technology didactic understanding; each student must also demonstrate an understanding that their appearance and behavior are a reflection of the respect for themselves, the College, the Affiliates, and for
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their profession. This includes the perceptions of the general public who may be aware of each student’s role as a surgical technologist.
Objective: Each ST student will demonstrate the commitment to professional appearance with the understanding that this projects an image to others that the student places value in organization and details, and also displays respect for Presentation College’s Surgical Technology Program, PC faculty, PC clinical staff, other students, as well as themselves.
• Each student enters the clinical site in a quiet and professional manner.
• Each student maintains a good appearance with clean clothes in good condition (no holes).
• Each student understands that articles of clothing may not contain objectionable writing or symbols. • Each student understands that no jewelry may be worn during clinical and if jewelry is lost at the clinical site the College is not responsible to replace it.
• Each student must avoid displaying hickies (or the student may be removed from clinical on that day). • Each student must have a name tag tightly secured to your scrubs (please conceal your name tag when out of clinical site).
• Each student’s fingernails must be trimmed cleaned and absolutely no fake-nails or fingernail polish are allowed.
• Each student understands that their hair must be washed daily and tied back if long.
• Each student understands that the presence of offensive odors (perfume, body order, and cigarettes) should be avoided or controlled in the OR. When people are ill strong odors can be objectionable and surgical staff work close together; odors may be distracting to clinical staff.
•
Each student must wear a Surgical Technology name tag (issued by the affiliation site) while at
the clinical site.
•
Each student must purchase a pair of new shoes for use in each O.R. White shoes of an athletic
cut are appropriate and provide the most comfort. No open toes or holes in the shoe will be
allowed.
•
Each student must wear protective eyewear on all surgical procedures (even if hospital staff is
not required).
•
Each student’s fingernails should be clean, short, and unpolished.
•
Each student should display good personal hygiene.
It is the position of this Surgical Technology Program that every conflict involving a student’s
unprofessional appearance will be open to individual evaluation by the Program Coordinator and Clinical Coordinator, and not limited to this list.
All Clinical Students will need to follow hospital policies and
procedures.
First and Second Scrub Role and Observation
First scrub role
The student surgical technologist shall perform the following duties during any given surgical procedure with proficiency. The following list is provided to identify the items that must be completed in order to
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document a case in the first scrub role. A student mot meeting the five criteria below cannot count the case in the first scrub role and the case must be documented in the second scrub role or observation role.
Verify supplies and equipment needed for the surgical procedure
Set up the sterile field with instruments, supplies, equipment, medication(s) and solutions needed for the procedure.
Perform counts with the circulator prior to the procedure and before the incision is closed. Pass instruments and supplies to the sterile surgical team members during the procedure. Maintain sterile technique as measured by recognized breaks in technique and demonstrate knowledge of how to correct with appropriate technique.
Second scrub role
The second scrub role is defined as the student who is at the sterile field who has not met all criteria for the first scrub role, but actively participates in the surgical procedure in its entirety by completing the following:
Sponging Suctioning Cutting suture Holding retractors
Manipulating endoscopic camera
Observation role
The observation role is defined as the student who is in the operating room performing roles that do not meet the criteria for the first or second scrub role. These observation cases are not to be included in the required case count, but must be documented by the program.
Total number of cases required to graduate = 120 30 cases in general surgery 20 in first scrub role
90 cases in 60 in first scrub role and evenly distributed between 5 surgical specialties. However, 15 is the maximum number of cases that can be counted in any one surgical specialty.
Diagnostic endoscopy cases and vaginal delivery cases are not mandatory. But up to 10 diagnostic endoscopic cases and 5 vaginal delivery cases can be counted towards maximum number of Second Scrub Role cases.
Observation cases must be documented, but do not count towards the 120 required cases. Surgical Specialties
General
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Genitourinary Otorhinolaryngology Orthopedic
Oral and maxillofacial Plastic and reconstructive Ophthalmic
Cardiothoracic Peripheral vascular Neurosurgery
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Due Process and Appeal
Mechanism
Students are to comply with all Program and Department Rules and Regulations/Policies and Procedures
In accordance with the NBSTSA (formally LCC-ST), students not completing or passing an accredited ST program will not be eligible to take the Surgical Technologist Certification Examination.
www.nbstsa.org
If a student’s academic and/or clinical performance has not been satisfactory, remediation will be initiated and the student will be placed on clinical probation until requirements are met.
A student does not need to be in a probationary or suspension status to be dismissed. Under the Due Process and Appeals Mechanism policy reasons that a student can be discharged from class/clinical without prior warning are listed but are not limited to these causes.
If it becomes evident to the Clinical Coordinator and/or the Program Coordinator that a student’s attitude and/or aptitude for a career in Surgical Technology is unsuitable, the student will be so advised and requested to withdraw from the program in the best interest of both themselves and the program. Voluntary Withdrawal: If a student voluntarily withdraws from the Surgical Technology Program, they will be asked to state their reason(s) for withdrawing in writing and submit this to the Program
Coordinator to be kept with the student’s record (this may be shared with the Surgical Technology Advisory Committee).
All Program Requirements must be met before the student begins the clinical rotation. See Program Requirements.
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Disciplinary Action
Presentation College Surgical Technology program officials reserve the right to discipline students for unsatisfactory performance and/or personal conduct and infractions of the Hospital’s policies and/or program policies; actions occurring at clinical or college.
Reasons for Which Warnings are Issued Include, but are not Limited to, the
Following:
1. Unsatisfactory Performance of Duties
2. Infraction of Hospital Policy
3. Infraction of PC ST Program Guidelines
4. Improper Safety Practices
5. Repeated Tardiness or Leaving Early
6. Excessive Unexcused Absences
7. Excessive Excused Absences
8. Unprofessional or Unethical Conduct
9. Violation of Program Dress Code
10. Insubordination
11. Violation of Hospital Infection Control Policies
12. Inconsiderate, Rude, or Abusive Treatment of Patients, Visitors, Staff, Students, or
Faculty Members
13. Badmouthing or Negative Talk about Patient, Visitor, Staff, Students, or Faculty
Members
14. Consistent Negative Attitude
15. Cheating in School Courses
16. Failure to Accomplish Clinical Assignments, Objectives, and Skills
17. Failure to Attend Scheduled Classes or Assigned Clinical Duty
18. Lying, Fabricating or Deceiving
19. Endangerment of Others
Disciplinary Actions
The disciplinary actions available for program officials to allow resolution of unsatisfactory student practices:
• The Plan of Action form is to be used to record all disciplinary incidents, actions, and outcomes, program officials will forward one copy to the student, one for the student’s official program file, and one copy will be sent to the Surgical Technology Program Coordinator. The written form should include a statement whether suspension or termination is being considered.
• The Suspension and Termination process may be used. This is suspension from the program or clinical. This is not suspension from the college.
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Suspension
Presentation College Surgical Technology program officials reserve the right to suspend students. • Number of days suspended will depend on the severity of the infraction and will be decided by the ST Program Coordinator. The length of the suspension normally ranges from 1-5 days.
• During a suspension period, the student will not be allowed to attend clinical, but will be required to attend any other classes. Make-up time for clinical hours missed will be made-up within two weeks of return.
Termination/Immediate Dismissal
The Program reserves the right to immediate dismissal for unsatisfactory actions of any of its students. Reasons that any student can be discharged from duties or class include, but are not limited to, the following:
Causes for Termination/Immediate Dismissal
1. Inconsiderate, Rude or Abusive Treatment of Patients, Visitors, Staff, Students or
Faculty Members.
2. Gross Misuse of Time, Equipment or Recognized Routine
3. Theft
4. Violation of Confidential Information Policies (per hospital)
5. Insubordination
6. The Conviction and/or Known Use of, Distribution of and/or Possession of Illegal Drugs
or Controlled Substances
7. Intoxication at School or Clinical
8. Three Days Absence from Scheduled Clinical Duty without Notice of Absence
9. Failure to Maintain a “C” average in any * Course in the Program
10. Cheating in School Courses
11. Unsafe Practice during Patient Care
12. Inability to Perform Required Skills
13. Request of Surgical or Clinical Supervisor
14. Failure to Cooperate with Remediation
15. Failure to Improve After a Suspension
The immediate dismissal cause(s) listed previously shall be documented by the immediate supervisor and reported to the respective department head. All requests for immediate dismissal are to be reviewed by the Department Chair, ST Program Coordinator and ST Faculty. If these groups concur with the request, the Program Director or designee will present it in writing to the student. The student will be terminated from enrollment in the program immediately following the conference with the committee. The termination proceedings will be filed in the student’s file.
Appeals Procedure
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Plan of Action Form
Surgical Technology Program Presentation College
ST Program Coordinator: Toni Shantz, Office Phone: (507) 235-4658 ST Faculty: Randy Mages, Office Phone: (605) 229-8415
Date, Time, and Specific Area/Course in which Incident/Occurrence was noted:
Detailed Description of Incident/Occurrence:
Plan of Action Suitabl
e
:
Expected Outcome:
Signing this I _________________________________________recognize that the above
incident or occurrence has been made known to myself, and that I (student) understand how I can
reach the expectation(s) noted under Expected Outcome.
Student Comments: _____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Signature of Student
Signature________________________________________
Date____________________
Signature of Person Filling out This Form
Signature
_________________________________________
Date____________________
Program Coordinator’s Signature Only
Signature__________________________________________________Date______________________
Signature of Allied Health Department Chair:
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Student Conferences
The Surgical Technology clinical program understands the importance of communication.
Student conferences will be used to document and communicate student and instructor input
pertaining to the student’s development and necessary enhancements needed to progress in the
program.
Unsatisfactory Performance or Behaviors
: a conference will be scheduled in regards to
unsatisfactory clinical or lab performance and/or personal conduct and infractions of a hospital’s
policies, documented ST program policies, college policies, or
any
behavior deemed
unprofessional or unsafe which will be up to the discretion of the ST Program Director and ST
Faculty Members. A
Plan of Action
form will be used to allow students and program officials a
form of response to conflicts. See
Disciplinary Action
for specific details.
Student Counseling
The Program Director and the Clinical Coordinator encourages students to visit with them
at any time regarding any questions, problems, or comments. Students may approach these
individuals during clinical assignment hours in the department or office as well as before or
after class sessions to allow privacy.
Counseling regarding clinical deficiencies is handled through evaluation forms. The students are evaluated continuously throughout their clinical experience time. Evaluations from staff surgical technologists will be used as references.
Each student is counseled. Clinical and academic performances are discussed between the Program Coordinator and the individual student and the Clinical Coordinator and the individual student. If the student is deficient, they will first be assigned remediation. They may be placed on continued probation and asked to make necessary improvements. If the deficiencies are grossly inadequate, the student may be advised to withdraw or may be dismissed from the program.
If the student incurs an infraction of a stated policy or guideline, a Plan of Action form is filled out, which the Program Coordinator will discuss with the individual student and the student will have the opportunity to make a written statement.
If there is a disciplinary action to take place on the basis of infringing a Hospital, department or program policy, the Program Coordinator, Clinical Coordinator (and Director of Surgery for any hospital
occurrence) meet with the individual student to discuss rationale for corrective action and conditions will be stated which must be met within a certain time period.
This conversation and outcome are documented on the Plan of Action form and signed by all in
attendance. If the terms approved during the counseling sessions are not met disciplinary procedures will follow.
If a student appears to be having trouble with test material and/or receives a poor grade, the student may meet with the instructor to look over their test, it is ultimately the student’s responsibility to seek better performance outcomes by increasing study time and asking questions.
Personal counseling services are suggested only if the person’s problem affects their performance in the program, then the student may contact Student Services at the College.
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Accidents/Incidents
If the student is involved in any kind of accident or incident at the clinical site, the Operating
Room Supervisor should be notified immediately as well as the Clinical Coordinator. Hospital
procedures will be followed with respect to Incident reports. A copy of a
PC Student/Visitor
Occurrence
report should be given to the Program Coordinator of Surgical Technology to be
placed in the appropriate file. Medical information is considered confidential.
A
Surgical Technology Blood borne Pathogen Exposure Procedure
form is located in the ST
Handbook. This explains the purpose of the procedure, defines exposure and body fluids,
describes PPE, the procedure itself advises the student seek medical attention.
The student is responsible for seeking treatment. If a student is injured she/he may be treated by
her/his own physician or in the hospital emergency room. Students are responsible for all costs
incurred.
Insurance
The student is urged to carry personal health insurance. Liability insurance for the student is
purchased through Presentation College.
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Surgical Technology
Blood borne Pathogen Exposure Procedure
Purpose of this Procedure
The following Blood borne Pathogen Exposure Procedure will be provided for Presentation College ST Students in order to record and document blood borne pathogen exposures. The purpose of this policy is to retain a record of the occurrence and stress the importance of post-exposure follow-up.
Exposure Such As:
• Percutaneous Injury (needle stick or sharps puncture) • Contact with mucous membrane or non-intact skin
• Contact with intact skin (i.e., several minutes or more) or if an extensive area is exposed to blood or other body fluids
Body Fluids Such as:
• Semen, vaginal secretions, or other body fluids contaminated with blood • Cerebrospinal, synovial, pleural, peritoneal, pericardial, and amniotic fluids
PPE (personal protective equipment) must be worn at all times to protect against possible exposure. This includes proper eye protection, mask, gloves (non-sterile and sterile), lead aprons and collars, decontamination aprons (used when cleaning instruments), mask, shoe covers, scrub suits. The use of PPE should be worn according to the task and amount of exposure anticipated.
Exposed Party is advised to:
• Wash area exposed to blood borne pathogen with soap and water • Flush mucous membranes exposed to blood borne pathogen with water • Report Incident
• Follow Hospital Procedures
• Complete a Presentation College Student Occurrence Report (located on PC web-site). Exposed Party Should Seek Immediate Medical Attention
• For treatment to be most effective it should be started within 2 hours
- Antiviral treatment may be recommended based upon degree of the exposure • Post-exposure testing may include testing for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C
All Medical Information Regarding the Exposure Must Be Kept in a Manner that Protects the Confidentiality of the Student.
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Surgical Technology Clinical Placement
The Presentation College Surgical Technology Program has a limited number of
clinical sites in South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa. Clinical placement is decided
by the Surgical Technology Program Coordinator. Students will need to travel as
directed by the Surgical Technology Program; each student will be responsible for
the cost of gas and lodging needed during clinical experience.
There are 10 South Dakota Affiliation Seats Available
There are 6 Minnesota/Iowa Affiliation Seats Available
*
Changes may occur to affiliation sites in the form of additions
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Student Confidentiality Agreement
Surgical Technology Clinical Rotation/Student Observation
Presentation College
I understand confidential care and treatment is the right of all patients in all clinical agencies used for my clinical experiences/observation experiences as a PC student. The diagnosis, treatment and all other information concerning patients is confidential and may not be released to anyone, including family members, without the consent of the patient. I understand even the presence of a patient in an institution or their ability to pay their bill is considered to be confidential information.
I understand that other information I may obtain as part of my student experiences is also confidential. I understand confidential information includes information concerning:
1) A patient
2) A patient’s family
3) An employee or job applicant 4) A physician or other practitioner 5) Peer review or quality of care
6) The sensitive business plans or finances of the college or clinical agencies 7) My or anyone else’s computer password
8) Other students or instructors
9) Any other person who makes use of the clinical facilities and services
I agree that, except as clearly directed by my instructor, I will not at any time during or after my student experiences, disclose or discuss confidential patient information or any part of my experience, which is of a confidential nature to anyone who does not need the information to perform their duties. I also agree not to seek or obtain information regarding confidential matters which is not necessary to fulfill my responsibilities as a student. I recognize my disclosure of confidential information may cause irreparable injury to an individual, the college, and/or the clinical agencies, and may result in a civil lawsuit. I understand my violation of this agreement or my disclosure of any confidential information in an unauthorized manner can result in my immediate dismissal from the Surgical Technology Program. If in any situation I am uncertain or unclear of my responsibilities in protecting confidential information, I will seek the guidance of my instructors or appropriate supervising personnel.
By my signature below I certify that I have read the Student Confidentiality Agreement. I have been given a chance to ask questions so that I can clarify my understanding of the agreement. I agree to be bound by these terms.
Student Signature and Date Signed_________________________________________________________________
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Surgical Technology Pregnancy Form
If a student is or becomes pregnant and will be participating in clinical, it should be reported to
the Clinical Instructor. This information can be kept confidential between the student and the
Clinical Instructor. The instructor should to be informed in writing. It is important for the
instructor to know so that a co-operative effort can be made to protect the mother and baby from
hazards such as radiation, certain anesthesia and chemicals. The Clinical Instructor will arrange
assignments to avoid these hazards but it is always the student’s responsibility to avoid these
hazards. Informing the clinical instructor is up to the discretion of the student and is the
Student’s responsibility.
Hazards to avoid if pregnant
:
•
Radiation, especially cases with fluoroscopy such as urology, pacemakers, orthopedics and any
case that a portable x-ray machine is brought into the room.
•
Masked general anesthesia and procedures where staff is working close to the patients head,
especially tonsillectomies and M&Ts
•
Chemicals such as glutaraldehyde, certain soaps and Ethylene Oxide.
•
Heavy lifting. When moving patients; take the feet.
If I believe that I may be pregnant, I will inform you as soon as possible. In the event that I am
not, I will inform you as soon as possible.
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Acknowledgement of ST Handbook
2012-2013
I have received the 2012-2013 Surgical Technology Program Handbook.
I understand that the Surgical Technology Program reserves the right to update and
change the handbook on a per semester basis.
I understand that if a situation arises that is not covered in this handbook; the
Surgical Technology Program Faculty will make a decision and render a verdict.
The faculty may take some time to come to a decision and may confer with others
for assistance in the decision.
Student Name ______________________________________________________
Student Signature ___________________________________________________
Date Signed ________________________________________________________
