Contents
Mailing Address ............................................................................................................................................................ 4
RSCC Mission Statement ..............................................................................................................................................5
Program Mission Statement ...........................................................................................................................................5
Program Philosophy ......................................................................................................................................................5
Program Goals ............................................................................................................................................................... 5
Program Objectives: The RSCC PTA Program will:....................................................................................................5
Fundamental Classroom Role Relationship Principles ..................................................................................................6
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) .........................................................................................................6
APTA Statement on the Direction & Supervision of the Physical Therapist Assistant .................................................6
APTA Statement on Procedural Interventions Exclusively Performed By Physical Therapists ....................................8
APTA STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT .....................8
APTA Statement on Value-Based Behaviors for the Physical Therapist Assistant ..................................................... 11
LEGAL PRACTICE .................................................................................................................................................... 12
PTA TERMINAL COMPETENCIES ......................................................................................................................... 14
Job Description: Program Director ............................................................................................................................ 17
Job Description: Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education (ACCE) ................................................................... 18
Program Advisory Board ............................................................................................................................................. 19
Public Comment Policy ............................................................................................................................................... 20
Program Policies & Procedures Review ...................................................................................................................... 20
Admissions .................................................................................................................................................................. 21
Failure to Complete the Program/Dismissal. ............................................................................................................... 21
Retention and Readmission ......................................................................................................................................... 21
PTA Curriculum Design, Sequence and Clinical Readiness ....................................................................................... 22
PTA Curriculum Plan Designed from the Base Up ..................................................................................................... 24
Americans With Disabilities Act ................................................................................................................................. 25
Grading Policies .......................................................................................................................................................... 25
Testing Protocol........................................................................................................................................................... 26
Cheating ....................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Confidential and Sensitive Information ....................................................................................................................... 26
Student Complaints and Due Process .......................................................................................................................... 27
Attendance Policy ........................................................................................................................................................ 27
Safety and Security of the Student ............................................................................................................................... 28
Standard Precautions ................................................................................................................................................... 29
Student Participation and Health Status ....................................................................................................................... 30
Smoking and Tobacco Products Use ........................................................................................................................... 30
Alcohol/Drugs ............................................................................................................................................................. 30
Allied Health Sciences/Nursing Drug and Alcohol Policy .......................................................................................... 31
Cellular Telephones ..................................................................................................................................................... 32
CLINICAL EDUCATION .......................................................................................................................................... 32
Basic Student Requirements for Clinical Education Participation .............................................................................. 32
Clinical Preparation ..................................................................................................................................................... 34
Clinical Selection Process............................................................................................................................................ 35
Conflict of Interest During Clinical Education ........................................................................................................... 35
Clinical Training Guidelines for AHS Students & Faculty During Campus Closures ................................................ 35
Student Responsibility ................................................................................................................................................. 36
Communication With the Student During Clinical Education ..................................................................................... 36
Clinical Performance and Evaluation .......................................................................................................................... 37
Clinical Site Information Forms (CSIF’s) ................................................................................................................... 38
Clinical Contracts ........................................................................................................................................................ 39
New Clinical Site Protocol .......................................................................................................................................... 39
Clinical Faculty Requirements and Development ....................................................................................................... 40
Communications with Clinical Faculty ....................................................................................................................... 40
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Clinic Visits ................................................................................................................................................................. 41
Current Clinical Sites................................................................................................................................................... 41
General Information .................................................................................................................................................... 44
Program Information ................................................................................................................................................... 44
Arranging for Your Background Check and Drug Screening ...................................................................................... 44
Consent to Drug/Alcohol Testing ................................................................................................................................ 48
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PROGRAM LOCATION AND FACULTY INFORMATION
The Physical Therapist Assistant Program is part of the Roane State Community College Health Sciences
Division. The classroom and laboratory (D-102 and D-103) are housed at the Oak Ridge Campus.
Faculty
Beth Vowell, PT, MPH, Ed.D, Program Director, Assistant Professor
Office:
B-128
Office Phone 865-481-2000 ext. 2117
Cell Phone
865-228-0369
e-mail
vowellmp@roanestate.edu
Emily DeLozier, PTA, BS, Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education, Assistant Professor
Office:
B-131
Office Phone 865-481-2008
Cell Phone
865-256-5403
e-mail
delozierea@roanestate.edu
Mailing Address
Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Roane State Community College
701 Briarcliff Avenue
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
Or
Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Roane State Community College
276 Patton Lane
Harriman, TN 37748
Fax: (865) 481-2019
Support Staff
Mariella Akers
Oak Ridge Branch Campus
865-481-2000 X 2007
Vicky Purdy
Allied Health Science Secretary, Harriman
Harriman Toll Free: 1-800-343-9104. X 4594
RSCC Website
www.roanestate.edu click ‘Student Resources’
RSCC Catalog
www.roanestate.edu/catalog
PTA PROGRAM Web page
www.roanestate.edu/?5956-Physical-Therapist-Assistant
This program handbook serves to supplement the current Roane State Community College (RSCC)
Catalog. It is the obligation of the college to make students, faculty and other interested persons aware of
the program’s policies. Each student enrolled in the second year of the curriculum will be asked to read
the PTA student handbook and sign the last page.
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Students will be given written notification of all major policy changes. Any written policy change should
be attached to the handbook to keep it current.
RSCC Mission Statement
Refer to the current RSCC Catalog. (www.roanestate.edu/catalog/?id=69)
Program Mission Statement
It is the mission of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program to provide a means for students to become
vital members of the physical therapy team. Graduates will be given the best opportunities to reach their
potentials and to compete confidently for jobs. The program strives to instill within the students an
awareness of diversity and a desire for lifelong learning in the field of physical therapy.
Program Philosophy
The RSCC PTA Program philosophy reflects the need for students in the program to be self-directed,
highly motivated learners. This terminal program is addressed in a work like atmosphere that guides the
student in a respectful but determined fashion so appropriate professional behaviors and academic and
clinical successes can be achieved. Since the faculty serve as both gatekeepers for the physical therapy
profession and facilitators for the students, much responsibility falls on their shoulders. The program
faculty often have to make difficult decisions keeping in mind the broader goal of serving patients.
Program Goals
1.
Graduates will possess theoretical knowledge, professional behaviors and technical skills
necessary to provide quality physical therapy.
2.
The program will be responsive to community needs within the scope of the PTA Program and in
keeping with the Mission Statement of the College (see college catalog).
3.
The PTA Program will meet or exceed national standards for physical therapist assistant
education.
4.
Graduates will understand their role in providing quality physical therapy.
5.
Graduates will have a appreciation for continued learning and the role this will play in this
evolving health care delivery system.
6.
Graduates will appreciate and respect the diversity one will see in the profession of physical
therapy.
Program Objectives: The RSCC PTA Program will:
1. Demonstrate ongoing community involvement and continuous improvement of programs with the
establishment of its presence within the physical therapy community. The PTA program should
utilize community involvement including feedback and service as a mechanism to make
improvements in the program that are consistent with current and conventional with physical
therapy practice.
2. Provide evidence of effective improvement of laboratory equipment to enhance student learning.
3. Support faculty and student attendance in collaborative meetings, engagement in review of
literature, and attendance at continuing education as required to maintain licensure.
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4. Demonstrate its effectiveness to institutional effectiveness and continuous improvement of its
programs and services and of student learning by maintaining professional accreditation standards
of CAPTE.
5. Maintain equipment used in laboratory including calibrate on an annual basis to assure that
students have access to accurate readings, and equipment repair should be completed annually for
any non-working equipment. Equipment should be safe to use and in compliance with standards
of the manufacturer.
6. Provide flexible, quality and technologically current teaching and learning options that
improve access and meet needs of PTA program participants through traditional
methods, distance education and research verified educational delivery systems.
7. Build pathways, design learning opportunities, and provide support services to guide students
towards accomplishment of their educational goals.
8. Design learning opportunities and provide supportive services that will guide students to their
maximum potential for licensure and employment
Fundamental Classroom Role Relationship Principles
The relationships within the classroom will have several dimensions to promote a more dynamic learning
experience and transition into the physical therapy profession. In order to be successful academically and
clinically, each student must recognize and participate in these various relationships These include:
1. The traditional teacher and student relationship
2. Interaction between the faculty and students consistent with a physical therapist and physical
therapist assistant relationship.
3. Interaction between the students that will go beyond traditional roles and reflect the
cooperative/collaborative relationship of co-workers.
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
The APTA is the national organization that accredits all physical therapy education programs. It
establishes position statements on the definition, utilized and ethical standards of the profession. RSCC
PTA Program is an accredited program. In June 2010, the program was reaccredited for another ten years
by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (April 28, 2010-June 30, 2020).
www.capteonline.org
APTA Statement on the Direction & Supervision of the Physical Therapist Assistant
Students of the RSCC PTA program will comply with the following APTA HOD policy statement P0605-18-26 updated 12-14-2009:
Physical therapists have a responsibility to deliver services in ways that protect the public safety and
maximize the availability of their services. They do this through direct delivery of services in conjunction
with responsible utilization of physical therapist assistants who assist with selected components of
intervention. The physical therapist assistant is the only individual permitted to assist a physical
therapist in selected interventions under the direction ad supervision of a physical therapist.
Direction and supervision are essential in the provision of quality physical therapy services. The degree
of direction and supervision necessary for assuring quality physical therapy services is dependent upon
many factors, including the education, experiences, and responsibilities of the parties involved, as well as
the organizational structure in which the physical therapy services are provided.
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Regardless of the setting in which the physical therapy service is provided, the following responsibilities
must be borne solely by the physical therapist:
1. Interpretation of referrals when available.
2. Initial examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and prognosis.
3. Development or modification of a plan of care which is based on the initial examination or
reexamination and which includes the physical therapy goals and outcomes.
4. Determination of when the expertise and decision-making capability of the physical therapist
requires the physical therapist to personally render physical therapy interventions and when it
may be appropriate to utilize the physical therapist assistant. A physical therapist shall
determine the most appropriate utilization of the physical therapist assistant that provides for the
delivery of service that is safe, effective, and efficient.
5. Reexamination of the patient/client in light of their goals, and revision of the plan of care when
indicated.
6. Establishment of the discharge plan and documentation of discharge summary/status.
7. Oversight of all documentation of services rendered to each patient/client.
The physical therapist remains responsible for the physical therapy services provided when the physical
therapist’s plan of care involves the physical therapist assistant to assist with selected interventions.
Regardless of the setting in which the service is provided, the determination to utilize physical therapist
assistants for selected interventions requires the education, expertise, and professional judgment of a
physical therapist as described by the Standards of Practice, Guide to Professional Conduct, and Code of
Ethics.
In determining the appropriate extent of assistance from the physical therapist assistant (PTA), the
physical therapist considers:
 The PTA’s education, training, experience, and skill level.
 Patient client criticality, acuity, stability, and complexity.
 The predictability of the consequences.
 The setting in which the care is being delivered.
 Federal and state statutes.
 Liability and risk management concerns
 The mission of physical therapy services for the setting.
 The needed frequency of reexamination.
Physical Therapist Assistant Definition:
The physical therapist assistant is a technically educated health care provider who assists the physical
therapist in the provision of physical therapy. The physical therapist assistant is a graduate of a physical
therapist assistant associate degree program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical
Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Utilization
The physical therapist is directly responsible for the actions of the physical therapist assistant related to
patient/client management. The physical therapist assistant may perform selected physical therapy
interventions under the direction and at least general supervision of the physical therapist. In general
supervision, the physical therapist is not required to be on-site for direction and supervision, but must be
available at least by telecommunications. The ability of the physical therapist assistant to perform the
selected interventions as directed shall be assessed on an ongoing basis by the supervising physical
7
therapist. The physical therapist assistant makes modifications to selected interventions either to
progress the patient/client as directed by the physical therapist or to ensure patient/client safety and
comfort.
The physical therapist assistant must work under the direction and at least general supervision of the
physical therapist. In all practice settings, the performance of selected interventions by the physical
therapist assistant must be consistent with safe and legal physical therapist practice, and shall be
predicated on the following factors: complexity and acuity of the patient’s/client’s needs; proximity and
accessibility to the physical therapist; supervision available in the event of emergencies or critical events;
and type of setting in which the service is provided.
When supervising the physical therapist assistant in any off-site setting, the following requirements must
be observed:
1. A physical therapist must be accessible by telecommunications to the physical therapist assistant at all
times while the physical therapist assistant is treating patients/clients.
2. There must be regularly scheduled and documented conferences with the physical therapist assistant
regarding patients/clients, the frequency of which is determined by the needs of the patient/client and the
needs of the physical therapist assistant.
3. In those situations in which a physical therapist assistant is involved in the care of a patient/client, a
supervisory visit by the physical therapist will be made:
a. Upon the physical therapist assistant's request for a reexamination, when a change in the plan of care
is needed, prior to any planned discharge, and in response to a change in the patient’s/client’s medical
status.
b. At least once a month, or at a higher frequency when established by the physical therapist, in
accordance with the needs of the patient/client.
c. A supervisory visit should include:
i. An on-site reexamination of the patient/client.
ii. On-site review of the plan of care with appropriate revision or termination.
iii. Evaluation of need and recommendation for utilization of outside resources.
APTA Statement on Procedural Interventions Exclusively Performed By Physical
Therapists
Students of the RSCC PTA program should be aware of following APTA HOD policy statement P06-0030-36 updated 12-14-2009:
The physical therapist’s scope of practice as defined by the American Physical Therapy Association Guide
to Physical Therapist Practice includes interventions performed by physical therapists. These interventions
include procedures performed exclusively by physical therapists and selected interventions that can be
performed by the physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist.
Interventions that require immediate and continuous examination and evaluation throughout the
intervention are performed exclusively by the physical therapist. Such procedural interventions within the
scope of the physical therapist practice that are performed exclusively by the physical therapist include,
but are not limited to, spinal and peripheral joint mobilization/manipulation, which are components of
manual therapy, and sharp selective debridement, which is a component of wound management.
APTA STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST
ASSISTANT
RSCC PTA students will comply with the APTA Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist
Assistant. Failure to do so could result in grade reduction or program dismissal:
Preamble
8
The Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant (Standards of Ethical Conduct)
delineate the ethical obligations of all physical therapist assistant as determined by the House of
Delegates of The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The Standards of Ethical Conduct
provide a foundation for conduct to which all physical therapist assistants shall adhere. Fundamental to
the Standards of Ethical Conduct is the special obligation of physical therapist assistants to enable
patients/clients to achieve greater independence, health and wellness, and enhanced quality of life.
No document that delineates ethical standards can address every situation. Physical therapist assistants
are encouraged to seek additional advice or consultation in instances where the guidance of the
Standards of Ethical Conduct may not be definitive.
Standard #1: Physical therapist assistants shall respect the inherent dignity, and rights, of all
individuals.
1A. Physical therapist assistants shall act in a respectful manner toward each person regardless
of age, gender, race, nationality, religion, ethnicity, social or economic status, sexual orientation,
health condition, or disability.
1B. Physical therapist assistants shall recognize their personal biases and shall not discriminate
against others in the provision of physical therapy services.
Standard #2: Physical therapist assistants shall be trustworthy and compassionate in addressing the
rights and needs of patients/clients.
2A. Physical therapist assistants shall act in the best interests of patients/clients over the
interests of the physical therapist assistant.
2B. Physical therapist assistants shall provide physical therapy interventions with
compassionate and caring behaviors that incorporate the individual and cultural differences of
patients/clients.
2C. Physical therapist assistants shall provide patients/clients with information regarding the
interventions they provide.
2D. Physical therapist assistants shall protect confidential patient/client information and, in
collaboration with the physical therapist, may disclose confidential information to appropriate
authorities only when allowed or required by law.
Standard #3: Physical therapist assistants shall make sound decisions in collaboration with the physical
therapist and within the boundaries established by laws and regulations
3A. Physical therapist assistants shall make objective decisions in the patient’s/client’s best
interest in all practice settings.
3B. Physical therapist assistants shall be guided by information about best practice regarding
physical therapy interventions.
3C. Physical therapist assistants shall make decisions based upon their level of competence and
consistent with patient/client values.
3D. Physical therapist assistants shall not engage in conflicts of interest that interfere with
making sound decisions.
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3E. Physical therapist assistants shall provide physical therapy services under the direction and
supervision of a physical therapist and shall communicate with the physical therapist when
patient/client status requires modifications to the established plan of care.
Standard #4: Physical therapist assistants shall demonstrate integrity in their relationships with
patients/clients, families, colleagues, students, other health care providers, employers, payers, and the
public.
4A. Physical therapist assistants shall provide truthful, accurate, and relevant information and
shall not make misleading representation.
4B. Physical therapist assistants shall not exploit persons over whom they have supervisory,
evaluative or other authority (eg, patients/clients, students, supervisees, research participants, or
employees).
4C. Physical therapist assistants shall discourage misconduct by health care professionals and
report illegal or unethical acts to the relevant authority, when appropriate.
4D. Physical therapist assistants shall report suspected cases of abuse involving children or
vulnerable adults to the supervising physical therapist and the appropriate authority, subject to
law.
4E. Physical therapist assistants shall not engage in any sexual relationship with any of their
patients/clients, supervisees, or students.
4F. Physical therapist assistants shall not harass anyone verbally, physically, emotionally, or
sexually.
Standard #5: Physical therapist assistants shall fulfill their legal and ethical obligations.
5A. Physical therapist assistants shall comply with applicable local, state, and federal laws and
regulations.
5B. Physical therapist assistants shall support the supervisory role of the physical therapist to
ensure quality care and promote patient/client safety.
5C. Physical therapist assistants involved in research shall abide by accepted standards
governing protection of research participants.
5D. Physical therapist assistants shall encourage colleagues with physical, psychological, or
substance-related impairments that may adversely impact their professional responsibilities to
seek assistance or counsel.
5E. Physical therapist assistants who have knowledge that a colleague is unable to perform their
professional responsibilities with reasonable skill and safety shall report this information to the
appropriate authority.
Standard #6: Physical therapist assistants shall enhance their competence through the lifelong
acquisition and refinement of knowledge, skills, and abilities.
6A. Physical therapist assistants shall achieve and maintain clinical competence.
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6B. Physical therapist assistants shall engage in lifelong learning consistent with changes in
their roles and responsibilities and advances in the practice of physical therapy.
6C. Physical therapist assistants shall support practice environments that support career
development and lifelong learning.
Standard #7: Physical therapist assistants shall support organization behaviors and business practices
that benefit patients/clients and society.
7A. Physical therapist assistants shall promote work environments that support ethical and
accountable decision-making.
7B. Physical therapist assistants shall not accept gifts or other considerations that influence or
give an appearance of influencing their decisions.
7C. Physical therapist assistants shall fully disclose any financial interest they have in products
or services that they recommend to patients/clients.
7D. Physical therapist assistants shall ensure that documentation of their interventions
accurately reflects the nature and extent of the services provided.
7E. Physical therapist assistants shall refrain from employment arrangements, or other
arrangements, that prevent physical therapist assistants from fulfilling ethical obligations to
patients/clients.
Standard #8: Physical therapist assistants shall participate in efforts to meet the health needs of people
locally, nationally, or globally.
8A. Physical therapist assistants shall support organizations that meet the health needs of people
who are economically disadvantaged, uninsured, and underinsured.
8B. Physical therapist assistants shall advocate for people with impairments, activity
limitations, participation restrictions, and disabilities in order to promote their participation in
community and society.
8C. Physical therapist assistants shall be responsible stewards of health care resources by
collaborating with physical therapists in order to avoid overutilization or underutilization of
physical therapy services.
8D. Physical therapist assistants shall educate members of the public about the benefits of
physical therapy.
APTA Statement on Value-Based Behaviors for the Physical Therapist Assistant
Students of the RSCC PTA program will demonstrate understanding of and behaviors consistent with
APTA BOD position statement P01-11-02-02 updated 5-10-2013:
1. Altruism
2. Caring and Compassion
3. Continuing Competence
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4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Duty
Integrity
PT/PTA Collaboration
Responsibility
Social Responsibility
A complete history of the development and approval of the document is included in the document’s
introduction. This document is located on the APTA website (www.apta.org ).
LEGAL PRACTICE
During any academic or clinical course, the student’s activities must be in compliance with the
Tennessee Physical Therapy Practice Act, Rules & Regulations. Failure to do so could result in
grade reduction or program dismissal.
http://tennessee.gov/sos/rules/1150/1150-01.pdf
From Section 22 of the Physical Therapy Practice Act:
Physical therapy aides, other assistive personnel, and clinical students shall
at all times perform patient care activities under the on-site supervision of a licensed
physical therapist or physical therapist assistant as defined in §63-13-103 (11).
(d) Physical therapist students and physical therapist assistant students shall at
all times be under the supervision of a physical therapist as further set forth in the rules
promulgated by the board. (See definition of on-site supervision below)
And from Rules Governing Practice of Physical Therapy:
A physical therapist assistant shall provide on-site supervision, as defined in part (b) 3. of paragraph (2) of this rule,
to physical therapist assistant clinical students at all times and will be in accordance with the APTA guidelines for
clinical education which suggest a minimum of one (1) year of licensed clinical experience prior to functioning as a
clinical instructor for physical therapist assistant students.
Students should also be aware of legal practice of the PTA including supervisory rules. From
section 4 of the Tennessee Physical Therapy Practice Act:
"Supervision" of the physical therapist assistant means the supervising
physical therapist will be readily available to the physical therapist assistant being
supervised. When the physical therapist assistant is practicing in an offsite setting, the
supervising physical therapist will be immediately accessible by telecommunications;
patient conferences will be regularly scheduled and documented and supervisory visits
will be made as further outlined in the rules and regulations; and "On-site supervision" means the
supervising physical therapist or physical therapist assistant must:
(1) Be continuously on-site and present in the department or facility
where assistive personnel are performing services;
(2) Be immediately available to assist the person being supervised in the
services being performed; and
(3) Maintain continued involvement in appropriate aspects of each
treatment session in which a component of treatment is delegated to assistive
personnel.
And from Section 2 of the Rules Governing Practice of Physical Therapy:
The licensed physical therapist shall perform the initial evaluation of the patient with the development of a
written treatment plan, including therapeutic goals, frequency and time period of services.
2. The licensed physical therapist shall perform and document re-evaluations, assessments, and
modifications in the treatment plan at least every thirty (30) days. For patients seen longer than sixty
(60) days, the licensed physical therapist shall inspect the actual act of therapy services rendered at
least every sixty (60) days.
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3. The licensed physical therapist may not supervise a physical therapist assistant that is delivering services
at a site further than sixty (60) miles or one (1) hour from the licensed physical therapist. The
supervising licensed physical therapist must be available to communicate by telephone or other
means whenever the physical therapist assistant is delivering services.
4. The discharge evaluation must be performed and the resulting discharge summary must be written by
the licensed physical therapist.
5. The licensed physical therapist and the physical therapist assistant shall be equally responsible and
accountable for carrying out the provisions of this subparagraph.
A physical therapist may concurrently supervise no more than the equivalent of three (3) full-time
physical therapist assistants. A physical therapist may concurrently supervise no more than the
equivalent of two (2) full-time assistive personnel or physical therapy aides. A physical therapist assistant
may concurrently supervise no more than the equivalent of two (2) full-time physical therapy aides.
And from Section 12 of the Rules:
Each licensee must retain documentation of completion of all continuing competence requirements of this
rule for a period of five (5) years from when the requirements were completed. This documentation must
be produced for inspection and verification, if requested in writing by the Board during its verification
process.
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PTA TERMINAL COMPETENCIES
(From EVALUATIVE CRITERIA FOR ACCREDITATION OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR THE
PREPARATION OF PHYSICAL THERAPISTS ASSISTANTS—CAPTE)
3.3.
3.3.2.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The technical education component of the curriculum includes learning experiences to prepare the
entry-level physical therapist assistant to work under the direction and supervision of the physical
therapist. Courses within the curriculum include content designed to prepare program graduates
to meet the described performance expectations.
Communication
3.3.2.1. Communicates verbally and non-verbally with the patient, the physical therapist, health care
delivery personnel, and others in an effective, appropriate, and capable manner.
Individual and Cultural Differences
3.3.2.2. Recognizes individual and cultural differences and responds appropriately in all aspects of
physical therapy services.
Behavior and Conduct
3.3.2.3. Exhibits conduct that reflects a commitment to meet the expectations of members of society
receiving health care services.
3.3.2.4. Exhibits conduct that reflects a commitment to meet the expectations of members of the
profession of physical therapy.
3.3.2.5. Exhibits conduct that reflects practice standards that are legal, ethical and safe.
Plan of Care
3.3.2.6. Communicates an understanding of the plan of care developed by the physical therapist to
achieve short and long term goals and intended outcomes.
3.3.2.7. Demonstrates competence in implementing selected components of interventions identified in the
plan of care established by the physical therapist.
Functional Training
1. activities of daily living
2. assistive / adaptive devices
3. body mechanics
4. developmental activities
5. gait and locomotion training
6. prosthetics and orthotics
7. wheelchair management skills
Infection Control Procedures
8. isolation techniques
9. sterile technique
Manual Therapy Techniques
10. passive range of motion
11. therapeutic massage
Physical Agents and Mechanical Agents
12. athermal agents
13. biofeedback
14. compression therapies
15. cryotherapy
14
16. electrotherapeutic agents
17. hydrotherapy
18. superficial and deep thermal agents
19. traction
Therapeutic Exercise
20. aerobic conditioning
21. balance and coordination training
22. breathing exercises and coughing techniques
23. conditioning and reconditioning
24. posture awareness training
25. range of motion exercises
26. stretching exercises
27. strengthening exercises
Wound Management
28. application and removal of dressing or agents
29. identification of precautions for dressing removal
3.3.2.8.1.
Demonstrates competency in performing components of data collection skills essential for
carrying out the plan of care.
Aerobic Capacity and Endurance
1. measures standard vital signs
2. recognizes and monitors responses to positional changes and activities
3. observes and monitors thoracoabdominal movements and breathing patterns with activity
Anthropometrical Characteristics
4. measures height, weight, length and girth
Arousal, Mentation and Cognition
5. recognizes changes in the direction and magnitude of patient's state of arousal, mentation and
cognition
Assistive, Adaptive, Orthotic, Protective, Supportive, and Prosthetic Devices
6. identifies the individual's and caregiver's ability to care for the device
7. recognizes changes in skin condition while using devices and equipment
8. recognizes safety factors while using the device
Gait, Locomotion, and Balance
9. describes the safety, status, and progression of patients while engaged in gait, locomotion,
balance, wheelchair management and mobility
Integumentary Integrity
10. recognizes absent or altered sensation
11. recognizes normal and abnormal integumentary changes
12. recognizes activities, positioning, and postures that aggravate or relieve pain or altered sensations,
or that can produce associated skin trauma
13. recognizes viable versus nonviable tissue
Joint Integrity and Mobility
14. recognizes normal and abnormal joint movement
Muscle Performance
15. measures muscle strength by manual muscle testing
16. observes the presence or absence of muscle mass
17. recognizes normal and abnormal muscle length
18. recognizes changes in muscle tone
Neuromotor Development
19. recognizes gross motor milestones
15
20. recognizes fine motor milestones
21. recognizes righting and equilibrium reactions
Pain
22. administers standardized questionnaires, graphs, behavioral scales, or visual analog scales for
pain
23. recognizes activities, positioning, and postures that aggravate or relieve pain or altered sensations
Posture
24. Describes resting posture in any position
25. Recognizes alignment of trunk and extremities at rest and during activities
Range of Motion
26. measures functional range of motion
27. measures range of motion using a goniometer
Self-care and Home Management and Community or Work Reintegration
28. inspects the physical environment and measures physical space
29. recognizes safety and barriers in home, community and work environments
30. recognizes level of functional status
31. administers standardized questionnaires to patients and others
Ventilation, Respiration and Circulation Examination
32. recognizes cyanosis
33. recognizes activities that aggravate or relieve edema, pain, dyspnea, or other symptoms
34. describes chest wall expansion and excursion
35. describes cough and sputum characteristics
3.3.2.9.
Adjusts interventions within the plan of care established by the physical therapist in response
to patient clinical indications and reports this to the supervising physical therapist.
3.3.2.10. Recognizes when intervention should not be provided due to changes in the patient's status and
reports this to the supervising physical therapist.
3.3.2.11. Reports any changes in the patient's status to the supervising physical therapist.
3.3.2.12. Recognizes when the direction to perform an intervention is beyond that which is appropriate
for a physical therapist assistant and initiates clarification with the physical therapist.
3.3.2.13. Participates in educating patients and caregivers as directed by the supervising physical
therapist.
3.3.2.14. Provides patient-related instruction to patients, family members, and caregivers to achieve
patient outcomes based on the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
3.3.2.15. Takes appropriate action in an emergency situation.
3.3.2.16. Completes thorough, accurate, logical, concise, timely, and legible documentation that follows
guidelines and specific documentation formats required by state practice acts, the practice
setting, and other regulatory agencies.
3.3.2.17. Participates in discharge planning and follow-up as directed by the supervising physical
therapist.
3.3.2.18. Reads and understands the health care literature.
Education
16
3.3.2.19.
3.3.2.20.
Under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist, instructs other members of the
health care team using established techniques, programs, and instructional materials
commensurate with the learning characteristics of the audience.
Educates others about the role of the physical therapist assistant.
Administration
3.3.2.21. Interacts with other members of the health care team in patient-care and non-patient care
activities.
3.3.2.22. Provides accurate and timely information for billing and reimbursement purposes.
3.3.2.23. Describes aspects of organizational planning and operation of the physical therapy service.
3.3.2.24. Participates in performance improvement activities (quality assurance).
Social Responsibility
3.3.2.25. Demonstrates a commitment to meeting the needs of the patients and consumers.
3.3.2.26. Demonstrates an awareness of social responsibility, citizenship, and advocacy, including
participation in community and service organizations and activities.
Career Development
3.3.2.27. Identifies career development and lifelong learning opportunities.
3.3.2.28. Recognizes the role of the physical therapist assistant in the clinical education of physical
therapist assistant students.
3.3.3.
Clinical Education
3.3.3.1.
The clinical education component of the comprehensive curriculum includes organized and
sequential experiences coordinated with the didactic component of the curriculum. Clinical education
includes integrated experiences and full-time terminal experiences.
3.3.3.2.
Clinical experiences selected by the program provide students with appropriate role modeling
and an opportunity to interact with individuals with impairments common to the clinical setting.
Job Description: Program Director
Allied Health Science Position Summary
Title: Program Director
Reports to: Dean of Allied Health Sciences
Position Summary: The program director performs the duties and responsibilities identified in RSCC Policy
Number: PA-24-01, Faculty Job Description. The program director is a faculty member who also has the primary
responsibility of ensuring that the mission and education objectives of the College are reflected in the individual
program.
Job duties and responsibilities specific to the position of Program Director include:
1. Responsible for the program’s master plan of education, including development, implementation,
evaluation and revision of plan. Incorporates participation of all faculty members in this process.
2. Coordinate the development, implementation, and revision process for the program’s curriculum design:
including but not limited to, course descriptions, course requirements, and evaluation systems.
Incorporates participation of all faculty members in this process.
3. Serve on Allied Health Sciences Admissions Committee and assist in the development of policies for
student selection.
4. Prepare and maintain the program budget within established parameters as needed. For the program.
5. Oversee the evaluation, maintenance, selection, and purchase of educational materials and equipment to
meet the needs of the program.
6. Participate in faculty meetings to meet the needs of students and program management.
7. Assist in the process of interviewing, selection, and mentoring faculty.
17
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
Implement the process for interviewing, selection, mentoring, and evaluation adjunct faculty who teach
courses within the program, under general supervision from the Dean of Allied Health Sciences.
Participate in the development of position descriptions for faculty.
Counsel and advise prospective and current students.
Act as a liaison between the program and clinical affiliates/community stakeholders.
Assist in reviewing affiliation agreements as needed.
Prepare annual reports for the Dean of Allied Health Sciences, college representatives, and other agencies
as needed.
Pursue ongoing education in professional practice, instructional delivery, and management to maintain
professional competency.
Creates a positive environment for learning.
Attain program goals through general management of financial, physical/material recourses, and human
resources.
Develop program evaluation to ensure ongoing effectiveness through outcomes assessment of quality
indicators.
Coordinate and direct the procedures required to achieve and maintain program accreditation including
submission of required fees and documentation, including reports of graduation rates, performance on state
or national credentialing examinations, and employment rates; notification of expected or unexpected
substantive change(s) within the program, and of any change in institutional accreditation status or legal
authority to provide postsecondary education; and coordinating of all activities associated with the
reaffirmation of accreditation process including preparation of the self-study report, organizing the site
visit, and preparing all responses to site visit reports and the accrediting agency’s request for progress
reports.
Coordinate an Advisory Board or similar group of consultants, consisting of program officials,
representatives of the sponsoring institution, and community stakeholders to support the activities of the
educational program
Assist with the maintenance of all clinical records by periodically meeting with the clinical coordinator,
clinical instructors, and/or supervisors.
Assume didactic responsibilities and functions within the position description of Instructor as assigned in
the classroom, laboratory, or clinic setting.
Establish communication and feedback procedures for student concerns.
Participate in the development and revision of program specific and curricular materials.
Demonstrate use of evidence based teaching/learning strategies, community service, and institutional
participation.
Qualifications:
1. Maintain certification or appropriate licensure
2. Meet the minimum criteria required by the program’s accrediting agency and RSCC for academic
preparation and experience.
Last revised 7/2010
Job Description: Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education (ACCE)
Allied Health Science Position Summary
Title: Clinical Coordinator
Reports to: Dean of Allied Health Sciences
Position Summary: The clinical coordinator performs the duties and responsibilities identified by RSCC policy
Number: PA-24-01, Faculty Job Description. The clinical coordinator supervises educational services in the clinical
setting to achieve equity of student clinical experience according to the program’s established standards.
Job duties and responsibilities specific to the position of Clinical Coordinator include:
1. Assess and summarize the effectiveness of clinical education components with the assistance of the
Program Director as needed.
2. Advise clinical supervisors in performing competence-based clinical evaluations.
3. Assist clinical supervisory in maintaining professional competence and improving skills related to student
instruction and clinical education.
18
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
Assist program director in the assessment of program effectiveness and student preparation.
Assist program director in the revision of policies and procedures.
Communicate with clinical faculty as needed to meet the need of the student, facility, and program.
Assist in the orientation of new faculty members and clinical supervisors.
Visit clinical affiliates as required by the program’s accrediting agency and/or the Dean of Allied Health
Sciences in order to meet student/program needs. Prepare weekly clinical visit reports and submit to the
Division Office.
Develop new site affiliation agreements and maintain clinical site availability to meet the needs of the
program.
Insure that clinical affiliation agreements are on file and up to date as required by the accrediting agency.
Pursue continuing education in professional practice and instructional delivery as needed to maintain
professional competency.
Integrate clinical education with didactic and laboratory instruction as part of the curriculum to meet the
needs of the student and accreditation goals.
Meet with clinical staff during site visits to maintain documentation of student’s clinical progress, and
maintain student records.
Coordinate mastery level testing of students’ clinical performance evaluation.
Maintain student and clinical records, papers, and reports of student clinical performance to include, but
limited to health records, insurance records, orientation material, criminal background checks, files, and
contracts.
Coordinate site placement of students to meet program and student needs.
Assist in the development of curricular educational materials related to clinical education.
Monitor current trends in the profession, third party payment (medical cost reimbursement), and legal
practices and revise clinical education programming in response to these trends.
Develop student objectives and evaluation tools for clinical education with the assistance of clinical
instructors as needed.
Maintain records of clinical education effectiveness to include, but not limited to:
a. Tracking student performance during affiliation such as phone calls, written evaluations, e-mail
communication and visits.
b. Documenting clinical faculties and faculty performance through site visits, surveys and student
feedback.
Establish and implement procedures to respond to student performance deficiencies and concerns.
Provide adequate preparation for students prior to clinical education.
Qualifications:
1. Maintain certification or appropriate licensure.
2. Meet the minimum criteria required by the program’s accrediting agency and RSCC for academic
preparation and experience.
Last revised 2/2008
Program Advisory Board
Excerpts from Advisory Board Bylaws:
I. Mission
The mission of the RSCC PTA Program’s Advisory Board is to provide advice, opinions, and ideas to
improve program quality in the areas of competitiveness, admissions, curriculum, recruitment, and new
graduate employments
II. Objectives
The objectives of the RSCC PTA Program Advisory Board are to:
A.
Review the program’s current status and the previous year’s activities through
documents made available by the program director.
19
1. Current status sources: current RSCC catalog and website, current PTA program
handbook, PTA course syllabi.
2. Previous year’s activities sources: Annual surveys by clinical instructors, employers
of graduates, graduates (on exit, after 1 year), current students, Commission on
Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) reports, board examination
results.
3. Supportive sources available upon request. Examples: the normative model for PTA
education, CAPTE accreditation standards for PTA programs.
B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
C.
Provide input, constructive commentary, and /or suggestions for
improvements/changes.
Serve as an advocate for the program in the healthcare community, to the general
public, or with accrediting agency (CAPTE)
D.
III.
Membership: The board will be composed of the following:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
IV.
Initiate discussion of new ideas/suggestions for program development or changes in
the health care industry that may affect/improve program quality and outcomes.
Promote input from different sectors of the population that interact with the physical
therapy profession through a diverse membership that may include:
Physical therapy professionals
Other health care professionals
Health and fitness professionals
Consumers, members of the general public
At-Large Members
Consumer/Public Members
Alumni
Student Representative
Program Director
Terms of Service
Vacancy
Officers
A. Chair
B. Vice-Chair
C. Secretary
D. Secretariat
Public Comment Policy
The public comment policy and procedure is located on the PTA webpage, “Community Relations” of the
RSCC website.
Program Policies & Procedures Review
During the summer term, the core faculty will review the policies, procedures, and information contained
in the PTA program handbook and make the appropriate revisions. These revisions will also be made in
the Clinical Education and Student Handbooks. Before the beginning of the academic year, the dean of
AHS will review and approve the current handbook
20
Admissions
See current PTA Admissions Information link of the PTA webpage of the RSCC website
Failure to Complete the Program/Dismissal.
Two events may result in failure to complete the program sequence.
1) Dismissal from the program due to failure of a PTA academic course (PTA 121, 141, 151, 235, 236,
244) OR clinical course (PTA 238, 239, 256, 257): (See course syllabus and Clinical Handbook for
pass/failure criteria). A timely meeting will be scheduled with the program director and core faculty
to discuss:
a) The events that lead to the failure.
b) Develop a consensus on the problems contributing to failure.
c) The student’s future options: applying for readmission to the program or pursuing alternative
career planning.
d) For career planning, the student is referred to the RSCC Counseling department for assistance.
2) Medical Withdrawal. If for medical reasons the student cannot continue in the course sequence, the
student should contact the program director to pursue a medical withdrawal from the program
Retention and Readmission
Second year (technical) PTA courses must be taken in the sequence they are offered. If this sequence is
interrupted for medical reasons or program failure as described above, the student may re-apply per Allied
Health Science Readmission Procedures described in the current RSCC Catalog and by the application
deadline. Readmission can only be requested for the academic year following the dismissal or medical
withdrawal. If the student wishes to pursue program readmission, the student must present a written
request to the PTA program director by the application deadline of the academic year following the
dismissal/medical withdrawal.
Regarding AHS Readmission Policy: (See College catalog)
Due to having an admission deadline, providing a written readmission request 30 days prior to enrollment
is insufficient to assure a timely readmission. Readmission requests must be submitted by the application
deadline of the same academic year, and:
a) Only one readmission to the PTA program will be permitted annually
b) Readmission is contingent upon the availability of space.
c) Each student may only submit one readmission request to the PTA program
Readmission after failure of a course:
After receipt of the written request from the student:
a) The student must meet with the program director and the core faculty to reaffirm the problems
contributing to the failure.
b) The Dean of Allied Health, PTA program director and core faculty must unanimously agree to
proceed with the student’s readmission.
c) Students will be notified within 60 days if the readmission request resulted in agreement and
readmission
d) If there is readmission agreement, consensus is required on what the student must do to remediate
these problems. This could include, but is not limited to: structured activities to improve
reading/writing/studying skills, auditing classes, successful retaking of the related skills
tests/practical, additional support/testing and recommendations from the RSCC counseling
department.
21
e) Based on the items listed in “d” above, performance contract is written that outlines how the
above strategies are to be implemented in a timely manner, what are the benchmarks of success,
and how documented success is provided. The contract is signed by the student, program director
and core faculty.
f) The above items are successfully completed before the PTA program director will present the
readmission recommendation to the AHS admissions committee, in order to readmit the student
in the following academic year.
Readmission after medical withdrawal
If the student wishes to pursue program readmission, the student must contact the PTA program
director and present:
a) Proof of medical withdrawal from RSCC must be on file (per RSCC catalogue: Withdrawals &
Honorable Dismissals).
b) Written verification from attending physician that the student is cleared to resume the program.
c) Complete a new physical examination form.
d) The above items ‘a’&‘b’ are successfully completed so that the PTA program director can present
the readmission recommendation to the AHS admissions committee, in order to readmit the
student in the following academic year.
PTA Curriculum Design, Sequence and Clinical Readiness
The curriculum is designed to produce a PTA that understands their clinical role, demonstrates reliable
performance, is self-motivated, has respect for individuality, diversity and cultural differences and
internalizes the concept of lifelong learning. The design is a 1+1 curriculum that can be completed in five
semesters.
The 1st year involves the student completing selected prerequisites that can be taken in a minimally
defined sequence and pace. Two of the prerequisite classes, ALH 102 and ALH 118, are only offered
through distance education. Once all prerequisites are completed, the student is eligible to apply for
admission into the 2nd year or technical phase. Admission is competitive and based on a point system.
The technical phase of the curriculum is full time and organized in a daily schedule that simulates a
typical working day in both its duration and intensity. Courses included in the curriculum and the content
of each PTA course have been determined by review of respected resources that include but are not
limited to the Commission of Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education Performance Outcomes, the
PTA Clinical Performance Instrument, part two of the Guide to Physical Therapy Practice that defines
preferred practice patterns, the Federation of State Boards outline of board exam content, American
Physical Therapy Association Standards, and the Guide to Conduct and Code of Ethics. The course work
is presented in such a way that it requires the students to read, question, discuss, process, and use the
material to perform skills, collect data, communicate with the PT and make choices and decisions within
the physical therapy plan of care, and monitoring the individual patient’s response to a variety of physical
therapy interventions.
Faculty-graded laboratory practicals and faculty supervised peer skills checks examine fundamental
application techniques and allow students to work on the skills of data collection, organization,
observation and fundamental teaching. Written exams challenge the students at various levels of
understanding. Demands progressively increase through the course with an increased focus on
comprehensive knowledge and problem solving.
All courses require cumulative final examinations, which must be passed with a minimum of 70% in
order to continue. Memorization as a strategy is discouraged and functional learning through
22
relationships, knowledge integration course to course and utilization of a a variety of teaching and
learning modes is highly encouraged. Documentation skills are introduced in PTA 238 and are applied
throughout the curriculum. Treatment documentation is required for all practicals, skills check-offs and
mock clinical situations. Minimum performance competency for all practicals and skills checks is
required. Every course containing clinical skill acquisition identifies mandatory testing units for
practicals/skills checks.
Clinical education experiences are first introduced in at a basic level through integrated clinicals at the
end of the fall and spring semester of the technical phase during the second year. These are followed by
two full-time entry level clinicals in the summer. Other observational experiences include sessions with
specialized community-based practitioners in specialty areas.
Preparation for the clinical setting is provided by the student successfully passing didactic exams,
laboratory practicals, laboratory skills check-offs, unit examinations, cumulative final examinations and
meeting the established criteria for the supervised mock clinics. Participation in the clinical setting is
conditional on the student meeting all critical benchmarks in the areas of behavior, knowledge and skill,
as outlined in the course requirements of all PTA courses.
23
PTA Curriculum Plan Designed from the Base Up
Highly Competent PTA
Understands Role
Reliable Performance & Behaviors
Highly Responsible
Self-motivated
Service oriented
Respects Individuals & Differences
Life Long Learner
PROGRAM VISION OF THE GRADUATING PTA
Seminar
Clinical Education II (Entry Level / Full Time)
Clinical Education I (Advanced Novice / Full Time)
Clinical Education
Clinical Prep II (Intermediate Novice Level / Integrated)
Medical / Surgical Conditions
Advanced Procedures II
Advanced Procedures I
ADVANCED
I. Cognitive- knowledge thru
synthesis
II. Psychomotor- perception
thru origination
III. Affective- receiving thru
organization
Stages, tasks, practice &
feedback
Taxonomy of Learning
Motor Learning Principles
Clinical Prep I (Early Novice Level / Integrated)
Therapeutic Modalities
Pt Care Skills
Kinesiology
BASIC
Physical Therapy Content
Medical Terminology
Introduction to PT
English Comp I
Philosophy, Ethics, Religion
Psychology
Probability and Statistics
Anatomy & Physiology
Foundational Content
PTA understands their Role
APTA Standards, Guide to Conduct
PT supervision
Code of Ethics
Competitive in Knowledge, Skills and
CAPTE Performance Outcomes
Professional Behaviors
Normative Model
Respects Individuals and Differences
Professionalism in PT: Core Values
Responsible
Guide to Physical Therapy Practice
Life Long Learner
State of Tennessee / Tennessee Board
of Regents Regulations
RSCC Mission / Guidelines
Guiding Documents
Mission, Philosophy
and Goals
PTA Curriculum Plan
Designed from the Base Up
24
Americans With Disabilities Act
In accordance with the ADA Guidelines, admission and progression in the PTA Program is not
discriminatory on the basis of physical or learning disability. Every effort will be made for reasonable
accommodation of students with documented disabilities. Students are required to meet Core
Performance Standards as listed in the PTA Information Packet. It is the student’s responsibility to
inform the instructor of the presence of the disability and to follow published guidelines found in the
Disability Services section of the current RSCC catalogue and website.
Grading Policies
General:
Each faculty member will distribute a course syllabus and grading policy on the first day of each class.
Any questions regarding the grading policy should be discussed with the faculty member.
Grades for assignments, tests, courses will only be released to the student in a confidential manner. For
all courses, the student will be able to view his/her grades online via a personal account. Assignments
and tests will be graded and returned within one week.
The grade of an assignment will be affected if it is turned in late. See individual course syllabi for details.
Course grades can be affected by the student’s attendance. Students must maintain 80% attendance to
continue in the program. See ‘attendance policy’ in this handbook.
A student must earn a grade of ‘C’ (70%) or better in all courses to remain in the program. See the Allied
Health Sciences Division retentions policy in the current RSCC catalogue.
Minimum Examination Score:
Students are expected to score a minimum of 70% on each exam. Students who consistently score below a
70% on exams may be asked to complete mandatory remediation activities including repeat examinations
at the instructor’s discretion. Application of the remediation grade to the original exam or course grade
will be determined on an individual basis.
Minimum Comprehensive Exam Score:
Courses PTA 121, 141, 151, 214, 235 and 236 (see course syllabi) require a score of 70% or greater on a
comprehensive final exam in order to pass the course. Students who fail the first final examination are
provided with an option to re-take the final, which may not be in the same test format as the first final at
the instructor’s discretion. If the student fails the final a second time, s/he will receive a “F” for the course
regardless of previous examination scores. Failure of any course results in dismissal from the program,
per the Allied Health Science division retention policy in current RSCC catalog.
Laboratory Examinations:
Students must demonstrate clinically acceptable skills for practicals and skill check-offs. Practicals are
skill assessments supervised and scored by faculty. Check-offs are skill assessments facilitated by student
peers with faculty supervision. If a practical or skill check-off is failed, a make-up will be scheduled and
monitored by a faculty member. If the make-up practical/check off is also failed, a third and final
practical/check-off will be scheduled. Two faculty members will be present for this make-up. Failure of
this third attempt will result in an ‘F’ for the course, regardless of prior grade status, and dismissal from
the program. A pattern of failures (>50% of total practical scheduled for the course will also result in an
‘F’ for the course, regardless of prior grade status and dismissal from the program See Allied Health
Science division retention policy in the current RSCC catalogue and syllabi for PTA 121, 141, 151, 235,
and 236.
25
Clinical Grading:
Grading procedures for clinicals are outlined in the corresponding syllabi. Grading criteria for clinical are
based on: timely completion of required hours, timely and satisfactory completion of assignment and
forms, written verification of acceptable performance by the clinical faculty.
Testing Protocol
The following behaviors are expected during testing. Failure to comply with these behaviors will be
interpreted as cheating. The student will receive an ‘F’ for the test and possibly for the course. See
following section; Cheating
1. Written tests: No talking to other students. Nothing on desk except pens/pencils or other items
needed to take the test, as determined by the instructor. Only one student at a time may leave the
classroom with instructor’s permission.
2. Practical exams: Students are permitted to talk briefly with other students assigned to their
practical exams as helpers or patient before the exam during the preparation period. Clarification
of testing scenario and collection of supplies needed for test will be the only items discussed.
3. Online tests and quizzes: No talking between students during online testing. If students are
testing at the same time in the computer center, they may not sit next to each other. Students may
not approach another student who is taking an online test
Cheating
Cheating, plagiarism or other academic dishonesty of any form will not be tolerated. Such action can
result in a failing grade for the assignment or course. See the ‘Statement of Academic Integrity’ section
of the current RSCC catalogue.
Confidential and Sensitive Information
Students in the program will be exposed to various sources of confidential and sensitive information.
This can include but is not limited to information regarding peers, RSCC faculty and staff, clinical faculty
and staff and patients. Exchange of this information will be limited to discussion in the classroom with
classmates and faculty, and written/online assignments for PTA courses.
Each student will respect this information and use it only for the purpose that it was intended. See
‘Standards of Ethical Conduct’ section of this handbook
Student records will be kept in the locked offices of the program director or ACCE. Past graduate
folders are maintained for five years and are kept in locked storage lockers in the faculty office
area. After five years, these older records are destroyed / shredded. The RSCC policy on securing
student records will be followed and can be found at URL address www.roanestate.edu/policies/SA-0101. Also see www.roanestate.edu/catalog/?id=214 and www.tbr.edu/policies/default.aspx?id=1514
Individual student meetings are held in the privacy of each faculty’s office. Professional
development meetings are wscheduled by appointment. Faculty members have an open door
policy. Faculty office hours are posted outside their respective offices. The office hours are also
on record with the ORBC secretarial staff and the Allied Health Science secretary on the
Harriman campus
Clinical Education:
26
Students: During clinical affiliations, the physical therapist assistant student is required to
maintain necessary patient confidentiality as defined by the Tennessee Practice Act for Physical
Therapy and HIPPA guidelines.
Clinical Faculty: The academic and clinical faculty will maintain confidentiality when discussing
specific student matters as outlined by the clinical contract, Tennessee Practice Act/ Rules and
HIPPA. An environment of privacy will be provided for all phone conversations and meetings
regarding student performance. Discussion about student performance to other physical therapy
staff is only permitted in order to achieve a specific goal for the student’s clinical education
experience. It is the clinical faculty’s responsibility to keep the student’s written evaluation
documents in a secure area of the clinical facility.
Student Complaints and Due Process
Students that have complaints regarding course work/grades should address the problem first with the
instructor. The second step would be to speak to the program director or if the complaint involves the
program director with the ACCE. If the complaint is still not resolved, the student should contact the
Dean of Allied Health Science. If the problem or complaint is still not satisfactorily addressed, a written
complaint can be filed with the Dean of Student Services. Refer to the current RSCC Student Handbook
under the section ‘Student Complaints’. Also see www.roanestate.edu/catalog/?id=299.
Attendance Policy
1. Attendance- Each student is expected to attend all classes and be present prior to the beginning of
class. Students are expected to stay each day until dismissal. Students that are unable to maintain
80% attendance as calculated on the course site will be dismissed from the program.
Quizzes missed due to absences are rescheduled at the instructor’s discretion.
Missed tests will be completed the first day the student returns to class. All other missed work or
assignments are the responsibility of the student to make-up.
In the case of catastrophic illness, jury duty, sudden weather conditions, or military reserve duty
exceptions can be made.
2. Tardiness- Tardiness is defined as not being in the classroom or lab when the scheduled starting
time as per the course syllabus has passed and the Instructor is ready to begin. This includes the
beginning of the class day, after breaks and after the lunch period. The Desire to Learn Program
deducts 25% of the class day if the student is tardy.
Quizzes missed due to absences are rescheduled at the instructor’s discretion. Tests can be taken
upon arrival but the completion time for the test is the same as for everyone else in the class. All
other missed work or assignments are the responsibility of the student to make-up.
In the case of catastrophic circumstances, motor vehicle accident, sudden weather conditions etc.
exceptions can be made.
3. Early Dismissal -Early dismissal is defined as leaving class prior to dismissal. The Desire to
Learn Program deducts 25% of the class day if the student leaves class early.
Quizzes missed due to absences are rescheduled at the instructor’s discretion. Test can be taken
upon arrival but the completion time for the test is the same as for everyone else in the class. All
other missed work or assignments are the responsibility of the student to make-up.
27
In the case of catastrophic circumstances, motor vehicle accident, sudden weather conditions etc.
exceptions can be made.
4.
Clinical affiliations
If a student must be absent, late or dismissed early, the same attendance policy will apply as for
scheduled classes as previously described, and in addition:
a) The clinical faculty of any subsequent clinical affiliations will be notified of this
issue.
b) The ACCE tracks the student’s attendance during affiliation through phone contacts
with the clinical faculty.
c) If attendance problems persist, it may put the student at risk for not meeting
minimum performance for the clinical. See Handbook sections on Failure of Clinical
Affiliation.
d) If a student develops unacceptable attendance behaviors (excessive absence, tardiness
and or leaving affiliation early) during a clinical affiliation, it may put the student at
risk for not meeting minimum performance for the clinical. See Handbook
sections on Failure of Clinical Affiliation.
5. Unexcused absence
An absence must be reported by the student before the scheduled starting time of the class being
missed to the instructor of the course by phone (leaving a voice mail is acceptable). Failure to report
an absence before the start time results in an unexcused absence. Any assignments or tests missed
during an unexcused absence cannot be made up and will be assigned and ‘F’ grade, ‘0’ points.
Safety and Security of the Student
The Oak Ridge Branch Campus building is equipped with a sprinkler system and an emergency alarm
system that warns with both flashing lights and sound. Emergency escape routes are posted in each room.
The PTA lab escape route is next to the main entrance to the room. The lab has two exits. One is through
the south door from the main PTA lab and the other through the laundry room and out through the PTA
classroom. The closest exit is the exit just to the left of the PTA lab. This exits into the visitor’s parking
lot. The nearest fire alarm is next to the entrance of the main student parking lot. The closest fire
extinguisher is out the main PTA lab entrance and to the left. It can be seen from outside the lab door.
Severe weather rooms are identified by signs posted outside the entrances of the designated rooms. Inside
classroom deadbolts have been installed on all entry doors in case of an intruder crisis situation.
Instructions will be sent via intercom to secure the doors from the inside. The PTA classroom has one exit
into the hallway.
The PTA lab and classroom are both equipped with a campus telephone and an emergency procedures flip
chart, and the PTA lab is equipped with a PTA Lab Safety Manual, a basic first aid kit, a hazardous
sharps disposal container, an eye wash faucet attachment, hand sanitizer and a CPR guidelines wall chart.
Security for the building is available during all hours that the campus is open. Security personnel are on
duty during open building hours and security cameras are mounted at each entrance. A security guard can
be reached by dialing extension 2020. To call outside the building on the phone at the desk area, first dial
“9”, then the number. Students that are practicing beyond 5:00 PM in the PTA lab should be working
with at least one partner. This “buddy system” is highly recommended. The security guard will escort a
student to their car upon request.
If violence erupts on RSCC campus, the student crisis plan is activated. This includes e-mail to all
current students. Students can also be updated by cell phone contact if they register for Raider Alert; see
28
RSCC website, Current Students. The student crisis response plan can be viewed on the RSCC website:
http://www.roanestate.edu/deanofstudents
The safety and security of the student is a concern of the program when they are required to go off the
Oak Ridge Branch Campus. Each academic year, the PTA students will participate in at least one off
campus laboratory experience, two field trip experiences and four clinical experiences. Prior to these offcampus experiences, the program faculty responsible will review the details and make the students aware
of any precautions or contraindications to the particular experience (see Student Participation and Health
Status section of this handbook).
All students will successfully complete the online Tennessee Placement Orientation Program before they
are approved to participate in their first clinical experience. Learning units include: emergency
preparedness, confidentiality & compliance, infection control & blood borne pathogens, safety in the
health care setting and caring for diverse populations. All sites used for either an off-campus lab or field
trips are current clinical education sites with active clinical contracts. These sites have contractually
agreed to provide safe and effective training for the PTA students. It is the students’ responsibility to
understand the safety and security policies / procedures presented by the on-site instructor. Student
Concerns with safety and security issues must be reported to both the instructor on site and the academic
faculty in a timely manner. These concerns will be addressed by the academic faculty and the facility.
Student expectations for off-campus educational experiences are the following:
1. Review and comply with all pre-experience instructions provided by the program
faculty
2. Report directly to the educational experience site
3. Inform the on-site instructor of any contraindication/precaution to the activity
4. Identify any concerns regarding safety and security to the on-site instructor
5. Follow all safety and security guidelines presented
6. Do not continue to participate if personal safety concerns present
7. Employ the “buddy system” in unfamiliar environments
8. Report all concerns to a program faculty or ACCE after reporting back to campus
Standard Precautions
RSCC PTA students will comply with Standard Precautions in both the classroom and clinical setting.
In the classroom: the student must protect themselves and classmates, faculty from contact with high risk
fluids. Most commonly: blood, wound drainage, saliva, nasal secretions. Urine and feces are high risk
as well. Necessary supplies are available in the first aid kit located in the PTA lab.
1. A sink with soap and an eye wash is available in the lab.
2. Hand sanitizer will be available in the lab as an alternative to hand washing, when appropriate.
3. All breaks in the skin must be covered with an appropriate dressing; one that covers the area
completely and retains the drainage.
4. If a break in the skin occurs during class. The student should immediately clean the wound and
cover it. Dressings are available in the first aid kit.
5. If you assist another student with a wound dressing, wear the gloves provided in the first aid kit.
6. If a high risk fluid has gotten on a surface in the lab. Clean the area immediately with the
available disinfectant and wear cleaning gloves (found in the drawer to the left of the sink.)
7. Cough with mouth covered, immediately dispose of tissue and wash hands
8. After blowing your nose, immediately dispose of tissue and wash hands
9. Wash hands before eating, drinking, applying lip balm, rubbing eyes, handling contact lenses.
10. Wash hands before leaving the lab area.
29
11. ALWAYS wash hands immediately when in contact with high risk fluid and notify the instructor.
Do not use hand sanitizer.
12. If a student’s eyes have come on contact with a high risk fluid, flush with eye wash at the sink
and notify the instructor.
13. A mouth piece for CPR is located in the first aid kit.
Before attending any clinical: All students must successfully complete the learning assignments, skills
checks, and quizzes/tests on infection control for PTA 141. All students will successfully complete the
online Health Science/Nursing Clinical Education module before they are approved to participate in their
first clinical experience. This module includes units on hospital safety (fire, electrical, life/environment
and personal safety issues), infection control and national safety goals.
Student Participation and Health Status
1. Students must notify the PTA faculty of any existing health conditions that can affect the
student’s ability to safely and effectively participate in and perform the activities of laboratory
class sessions, off campus lab session, field trips or clinical affiliations. This may include (not an
all inclusive list):
Cardiopulmonary:
Reproductive:
Musculoskeletal:
Thermoregulatory:
Skin
Neurological:
Other:
hypertension, asthma
pregnancy
Rheumatoid Arthritis, acute injury, chronic conditions (of neck, back,
shoulder, knee, etc.)
Hypersensitivity to cold
Latex sensitivity, other skin allergies
Seizures
Metal implants, body piercings
2. Students must notify the PTA faculty of changes in health that can affect the student’s ability to
safely and effectively participate in and perform the activities of laboratory class sessions or
clinical affiliation.
3. Students are responsible for notifying the instructor if they have conditions that are
contraindicated for specific procedures being practiced in laboratory class sessions.
Smoking and Tobacco Products Use
Per RSCC Policy: Smoking and use of other tobacco products is prohibited in all college buildings and
indoor facilities, campus grounds and walkways, and all areas where non-smokers cannot avoid
environmental smoke. Appropriate signage will be posted designating the campus as non-smoking. A
small smoking area will be provided for employees and students in designated areas of the parking lot for
the Roane County and Oak Ridge campuses and at designated areas for each satellite location.
Alcohol/Drugs
All students enrolled in the Roane State Health Science and/or Nursing Programs are subject to all
national, state, and local laws and ordinances. In addition, all students must be knowledgeable of and
agree to abide by the rules and regulations set forth in the RSCC Drug Free Environment Policy (# GA21-03), and the RSCC Student Code of Conduct (outlined in the RSCC catalog and student handbook).
RSCC is in compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989. These rules and
regulations require that students be free from alcohol and drugs at all times. Students who violate these
policies will be subject to disciplinary action and possible dismissal from their program of study. Students
enrolled in any RSCC Health Science and/or Nursing Program are also subject to the policies, rules, and
30
regulations of the institution in which they are assigned for clinical and/or laboratory experiences.
Each student must carefully read and sign the form: “Consent to Drug/Alcohol Testing.” This form will
be kept as part of the student’s record. Students who do not sign the consent form will not be eligible for
any classroom, clinical, and/or laboratory experiences in any Allied Health Science and/or Nursing
program.
Allied Health Sciences/Nursing Drug and Alcohol Policy
If a faculty member, clinical instructor, or member of the staff at a clinical facility observes a student
exhibiting suspicious behaviors indicative of drug or alcohol consumption which might impair his or her
ability to perform in a safe manner in the clinical setting, the faculty or staff member should immediately
report the occurrence.
The professional(s) observing the student’s behavior must immediately document their observations of
the student’s behaviors as well as any incidents observed including interaction with clients and or facility
staff. This signed statement should be given to the supervising faculty member, and a copy of the
statement will be placed in the student’s record. If the professional observing the student is not a RSCC
faculty member, the statement should also include information about the person’s position at the facility.
To Report An Occurrence (Reasonable Suspicion):
All incidents of reasonable suspicion must be immediately reported to the Dean of Allied Health
Sciences/Nursing and/or the Dean of Student Services. Adjunct faculty and clinical facility personnel
may contact the Program Director and/or Clinical Coordinator to report the incident. The Program
Director and/or Clinical Coordinator will then be responsible for notifying the Dean of Allied Health
Sciences and/or the Dean of Student Services. The reporting of the incident must happen at the time of
the incident. All witness statements should be documented.
Actions To Be Taken (in accordance with due process for the student):
1.
A student cannot be suspended from class/clinical without due process: Therefore, the Dean of
Student Services must talk to the student by phone, immediately after the occurrence, and make
the student aware of the specific violation. The professional who determined reasonable suspicion
must be present as well. If not present, that professional must fax a written account of the
occurrence to the Dean of Student Services. The Dean of Student Services must have this
information before talking to the student, so the student can respond to the specific
accusation/charge of suspicious behavior.
If it is the Dean of Student Service’s position that there is reasonable suspicion to believe the
student is in violation, the student can be summarily suspended until the results of the drug or
alcohol testing are received. If the results are positive, the Dean of Students will hold a hearing
on the merits. If negative, the student will be allowed back to class/clinical.
It is appropriate to alert security or the Oak Ridge Police Department to stand by or be physically
present in case a student becomes violent or call the police if necessary. If you have a strong
feeling that the student could become violent, you may ask security to remain in the same room
with you and the student.
If a student refuses to submit to a drug test, the Dean of Student Services will summarily suspend
the student. A disciplinary hearing will follow. The student’s refusal to submit to drug or alcohol
31
testing will greatly affect his/her probability of return to the program. The student signed a
contract to submit to testing when he/she entered the program if reasonable suspicion was
established.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The student will be directed to the appropriate facility for drug and/or alcohol testing. The student
will incur all costs of transportation and testing.
The student will be directed to contact a family member for transportation to a testingl site if drug
testing is not available in the facility where the suspicious behavior has been observed.
If necessary, the faculty member or clinical facility staff member may call the police to transport
the student. Faculty should not restrain nor transport the student.
The student will not be allowed to return to the class/clinical until the Dean of Student Services
has met with the student, investigated the incident, received test results, and made a decision
based upon test results.
Students may review the avenues for appeal outlined in the RSCC Catalog and Student Handbook
publications, in the section designated “Student Conduct and Disciplinary Sanctions.”
Cellular Telephones
Students are discouraged from receiving phone calls at RSCC. Students will not be called out of class for
a call except in an emergency.
Students should not call or text faculty members for routine matters that can be discussed during the day.
Students should call a faculty member for items of extreme importance or to discuss an important clinical
situation that requires privacy.
Cellular phones brought to class must be on a silent mode. Answering a cell phone during class is
prohibited except in cases of emergency or extenuating circumstance that has been discussed with the
instructor prior to the class session. AT NO TIME are personal cell phones allowed in patient treatment
areas at clinical affiliation site. This poses a safety hazard and is grounds for immediate dismissal from
the affiliate.
CLINICAL EDUCATION
An important part of the student’s learning experience is clinical education. Clinical education is
accomplished at a variety of facilities throughout the region. The following are policies specifically
related to clinical education:
Basic Student Requirements for Clinical Education Participation
1. Physical Exams: All students must have a physical exam and have the RSCC Medical History and
Physical Examination Report for Allied Health Science Programs form completed by his/her
physician.
2. Immunizations: Students must provide proof of 2 MMR (or titer), Hepatitis B series, (or titer) and
current Tetanus (< 10 years). Some clinic sites may also require a flu shot and proof of Varicella
immunity/immunization
3. TB test: The student must have a current TB screening.
4. First Aid and CPR Certification: Certification in First Aid and current certification in infant, child
and adult CPR (one man and two man) is mandatory.
32
5. Student files for second-year PTA students: These files will be kept in the office of the academic
coordinator of clinical education (ACCE). These files will include the completed RSCC Medical
History and Physical Examination Report for Allied Health Science Programs and proof of
information per #2-4. All information must be on file by the first day of class, fall semester.
6. Change in Health Status: See ‘Student Participation and Health Status’ section of this handbook.
7. Liability Insurance: Liability Insurance through RSCC is required. The cost is approximately $15.00
and must be paid during registration for the fall semester. With proof of this payment, the student
will be provided with written proof of liability insurance coverage to take to the clinical facility.
Most facilities will not allow students to treat patients unless they present this.
8. Health Insurance: It is “highly recommended that students carry personal health insurance,” and that
personal health insurance may be required by some agencies prior to the clinical experiences. See
Allied Health Science Policies, current RSCC catalogue.
9. Dress Code: The students will comply with the dress code of the clinical facility assigned. It is the
student’s responsibility to familiarize him/herself with this policy before going to the facility.
Students should dress conservatively and in good taste in order to well represent themselves and
RSCC. Closed-toe, low-heel shoes are required. Sandals, jeans, T-shirts and novelty tops are
unacceptable. On a designated date prior to the first day of each Integrated Clinical, students will be
required to come to class dressed as if going to the clinic. At this time, students’ appearance will be
inspected. Any changes that faculty requires must be made prior to the student’s first day of clinic.
10. Student Identification: Students must identify themselves as a RSCC PTA student to any patient they
are treating during the clinical experience. Photo name tags will be ordered by the ACCE prior to the
beginning of the first clinical experience. This name tag must be worn at all times during a clinical
affiliation. The name tag identifies the individual as a RSCC PTA student.
11. All PTA students scheduled to participate in a clinical affiliation for PTA 238, 238, 256, 257 must
successfully complete the online Tennessee Placement Orientation. This includes taking and passing
all quizzes and having a copy of the quiz transcript in the clinical notebook taken to the affiliation.
12. During any clinical, the student must comply with the following:
 The APTA Code of Ethical Conduct for the physical therapist assistant
 Tennessee Physical Therapy Practice Act, Rules & Regulations
 HIPAA Law
13. Expenses: Travel, housing, meals, and parking expenses are the responsibility of the student. Some
facilities have special provisions for these, others do not. The cost of emergency care while at the
clinical site is the responsibility of the student. The site personnel will follow the standard emergency
policies and procedures defined by the facility.
14. Criminal Background Check: All PTA students will complete the criminal background check process
within 90 days of the first clinical for PTA 238. It will be the student's responsibility to complete the
criminal background check, pay the necessary fees, and get the required information to the designated
representative of the clinical facility in a timely manner. The clinical facility shall set the eligibility
standards to be used in determining which students may participate in a clinical affiliation. See the
RSCC PTA program “Student Information and Requirements-Background Checks” in this handbook.
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15. Alcohol/Drugs:
a. See the “Health Science/Nursing Drug & Alcohol Policy” outlined in this handbook.
b. Some clinic sites may require drug screening.
16. Competency Requirements: To participate in any clinical, a student must have successfully
completed all prior PTA courses with a minimum ‘C’ grade (See ‘Grading Policy’ section and Allied
Health Science Division Retention Policy of current RSCC catalogue). Additionally, a student must
have and maintain a ‘C’ grade in all other PTA courses s/he is currently enrolled, in order to
participate an integrated clinical (see course syllabi, PTA 238,9)
17. Additional students requirements for clinical education will be outlined in the course syllabi for the
clinical ( PTA 238, 239, 256, or 257)
Clinic Schedule & Progression
Two integrated clinicals consisting of the four last Wednesdays of the semester (eight hours/day)
PTA 238 Clinical Preparation I
PTA 239 Clinical Preparation II
Fall
Spring
Two full-time clinicals in the summer, six weeks each, forty hours/week.
PTA 256 Clinical Education II
PTA 257 Clinical Education II
The first clinical experience, the integrated clinical of PTA 238 is scheduled at the end of the students’
first semester in the PTA curriculum. At that time the student must demonstrate adequate transition from
the academic setting to the clinical setting; clinical practice that is safe and effective (therapeutic &
timely) as a beginner/advanced beginner student physical therapist assistant (SPTA) as compared to an
entry level PTA. The second clinical experience, the integrated clinical of PTA 239 is scheduled at the
end of the students’ second semester of the PTA curriculum. At this point the student must perform at the
advanced beginner/intermediate SPTA level. The final two clinical experiences (PTA 256, 7) are each
full-time and six weeks long scheduled during the final semester (summer) before graduation. All
didactic course work is completed before these clinicals. The student must perform at the advancedintermediate SPTA level in PTA 256 and demonstrate independent entry-level PTA practice in PTA 257.
The students’ summer clinical performance is documented by the Physical Therapist Assistant Clinical
Performance Instrument (PTA CPI).
Clinical Preparation
In preparation for clinical practice, the students must participate in 6-10 mock clinic scenarios that are
supervised and evaluated by a PTA faculty member in both the fall and spring semester. The student
must demonstrate adequate concept and skill development needed for comprehensive patient care.
Details are found in the syllabi for PTA 238 & 239.
The student will be introduced to the program requirements for all clinical affiliations in PTA 238 & 239
(See syllabi). This will include how to utilize and complete the evaluation forms, understanding the
students’ responsibilities, implementing effective learning methods, developing effective communication
with clinical faculty, and managing problems as they relate to clinical education.
Adequate development in professional behaviors will be monitored and facilitated through meetings with
PTA academic faculty (one/semester) and self-efficacy forms (one/semester). Prior to the meeting, the
student and faculty member will complete separate evaluations on the student’s professional
34
development. During the meeting, the results will be compared. Recommendations and follow-up will be
outlined for areas of concern. A summary of this process will be provided to the clinical faculty of each
affiliation on the Student Information form. This form is completed and signed by the student and ACCE.
See syllabi for PTA 238 & 239.
Clinical Selection Process
RSCC PTA Program maintains contractual relationships with approximately 90 sites. Sites are both in
and out of the service area. These sites encompass a variety of opportunities for learning. Year to year
the availability of the sites varies. Therefore, a clinical site availability list is provided to the students to
help them in making their selections. Students will be given the opportunity to identify their top three
clinical choices for each affiliation by completing the Clinic Choice form. This form also provides the
student the opportunity to make the ACCE aware of any information they feel could impact the clinical
assignment and identify any conflict of interests (see next section). The priority for placement is given to
the type of experience needed to acquire a well-rounded clinical education. For the integrated clinicals
(PTA 238 & 239), each student will experience an outpatient setting and inpatient setting. For the fulltime summer clinicals (PTA 256 & 257, each student is assigned one in-patient experience and one
outpatient experience. One inpatient experience (integrated or fulltime) will be at a skill nursing facility
or transitional care center. Some exceptions will apply, such as a pediatric or home health experiences.
Conflict of Interest During Clinical Education
A student may not be placed at a clinical site where a conflict of interest could affect the grading parity.
Conflict of interest situations includes, but are not limited to:
1.
A family member is an employee of the clinic/the physical therapy department.
2.
In some cases, when a family member is an employee of another department of the clinical
facility.
1.
The student is currently employed by the clinic, or PT department.
2.
In some cases when a student was previously employed in another department of the clinical
facility
3.
The student has signed an agreement for future employment at the clinic or the PT
department.
4.
If the student has a previous personal relationship with a clinical instructor or an employee of
the clinic/department that has supervisory responsibility over the CI.
5.
A family member or friend owns or contributes financially to the clinic/ healthcare facility.
The student must notify the ACCE in writing of any of the above conditions before clinical assignments
per the clinic choice form are made or as soon as it develops . (for example, signing an employment
contract during the school year). The ACCE determines if a conflict of interest exists and adjusts clinical
assignments accordingly. If it is determined that a known conflict of interest, as defined above, exists
during a clinical affiliation, and without proper ACCE notification by the student, the student will
immediately be removed from the clinical, fail the clinical, and be dismissed from the program.
Clinical Training Guidelines for AHS Students & Faculty During Campus Closures
Inclement Weather: If the College closes any campuses due to inclement weather AHS students will still
be allowed to attend clinical training assignments if they are able to get to the facility safely and the
program faculty responsible for the clinical training is immediately available. In addition, the clinical
facility staff responsible for overseeing the student’s training must agree to have the student at the facility.
If a student is unable to get to a clinical safely, they will no be held responsible for missing a clinical
training day.
35
Holidays/Weekends/Evenings/Alternate Schedule: While it is normal practice for students and faculty
to follow the holiday schedule of the College, there may be times when the student needs to attend a
clinical training assignment in order to meet the program accreditation requirements or make up missed
clinical days. There also may be situations where the students need to begin their clinical training
assignments prior to the start of an academic semester, have their clinical training assignments conducted
during evening or weekend hours. If AHS program faculty choose to use alternate hours/days/holidays, a
program official (either Program Director or Clinical/Fieldwork Coordinator) will be immediately
available similar to their availability during normal clinical days/times. Use of these alternate days/times
is a program decision, allowing for flexibility based on program curriculum and accreditation
requirements.
Liability Insurance Coverage: AHS students are covered by liability insurance as long as the are
enrolled in the proper clinical course and engaged in clinical training appropriate to their student status,
without regard to whether or not the college is open.
2/2009
Student Responsibility
It is the student’s responsibility, NOT A CHOICE, to report any incidents or ongoing situations that could
jeopardize the outcome of the clinical and/or the relationship between the RSCC PTA Program and the
clinical site. Failure to report this information could result in grade reduction or program dismissal.
Communication With the Student During Clinical Education
Academic Faculty: See “Clinical Preparation” and “Clinical Selection Process” sections. During
clinicals, the ACCE is available by phone (office, cell) and by e-mail. For the quickest response, the
students should use the ACCE’s cell phone number. The academic faculty have an open door policy for
second year students. Their office hours are posted outside their offices.
PTA 238,9 (integrated clinicals) are web enhanced classes. For class assignments, the faculty and
students communicate weekly using the discussion and e-mail online (Momentum). Mandatory weekly
class discussions are also conducted. Clinical folders are turned in weekly with written assignments and
forms completed by the student and C.I. regarding student participation and performance.
Also see “Clinic Visits, Communication with Clinical Faculty” and “Student Responsibility” sections. A
visit to a clinic site may also be initiated by a student contacting the ACCE with a situation/concern.
Clinic Faculty: Also see “Clinical Preparation’ and “Confidential and Sensitive Information” sections.
Integrated clinicals: The C.I. will meet with the student at the end of day and complete the required forms
combined with verbal formative evaluation. Summative formative evaluation with be provided verbally
and with completion of required forms and the end of the clinical. Full-time clinicals. Formative
evaluation will be provided at least once a week and as documented on selected forms. Summative
evaluation will be provided at midterm and final, verbally with the completion of selected forms. These
forms are provided by the RSCC PTA program.
Both: The student will complete the APTA ‘PTA Student Evaluation: Clinical Experience & Clinical
Instruction’ form
36
Clinical Performance and Evaluation
A.
B.
Clinical Evaluation
1.
The student will be required to meet the minimum clinical competency requirements per
the syllabi of PTA 238, 239, 256, and 257.
2.
Documentation of student performance by the clinical instructor and the selected forms
supplied by the RSCC PTA program is mandatory. This process is outlined by the
clinical course syllabi mentioned in #1. The ACCE will have the final responsibility for
the clinical grade.
Failure in a Clinical Affiliation: Identifying concerns
1. Integrated clinical:
a. The C.I. will mark the ‘did not meet C.I.’s expectations’ on the ‘Integrated
Clinical Daily Report By The C.I.’ form and describe the circumstances.
b. The ACCE will follow-up with a phone call on the following Monday to
determine if this indicates the student is at risk for not meeting minimum
performance standards for the clinical. This may occur because of one
significant incident or a pattern of behavior.
c. The ACCE must determine if immediate dismissal is indicated/requested or
remediation is necessary.
d. The student will be informed of his/her failing status by Tuesday. The
performance criteria that the student is at risk for failing is identified.
2. Fulltime clinical
a. In the physical therapist assistant clinical performance instrument (PTA CPI),
the C.I. must mark the MIDTERM Significant Concerns Box(s) for the
appropriate Performance Criteria AND document the specific incident(s) and
behavior(s) that led to the C.I.’s concern in the MIDTERM Comments
Section(s). This information must be immediately presented to the student.
b. The ACCE must be contacted within 24 hours of the events in ‘a’. The ACCE
must determine if immediate dismissal is indicated/requested or remediation is
necessary.
C. Failure in a Clinical Affiliation, Immediate dismissal
1.
Per the Clinical Affiliation Agreement between RSCC and the clinical facility, Part II, C:
"The Affiliate may immediately remove from the premises any student that poses an
immediate threat or danger." This includes, but is not limited to:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
2.
Negligence
Lying
Falsifying records
Patient treatment by a PTA student without onsite supervision by licensed
physical therapist or licensed physical therapist assistant.
Gross safety errors
If the student is dismissed, the student will receive an `F' for the course and is dismissed
from the PTA program. See ‘After program dismissal’ section (F) below.
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D.
Failure in a Clinical Affiliation, Remediation
1.
When remediation is indicated, a written performance contract will be developed.
a. Integrated clinical: This contract will be created and signed by the ACCE, C.I. and the
student before the next clinic day.
b. Fulltime clinical: This contract will be created and signed by the ACCE, C.I. and the
student within 24 hours.
2. Performance contract content:
a. The areas of unsatisfactory performance/ related performance criteria.
b. Additional performance expectations for the student in order to be successful.
The student must continue to meet the basic performance requirements for
the course as outlined by the syllabi.
c. The conditions under which the new expectations will be met.
3. If the student is unsuccessful in meeting the minimum performance standard at the end
of the clinical:
a. Ratings on the student evaluation form for that clinical should be marked
below passing (see course syllabi) and supporting statements regarding further
behaviors and incidents of concern should be documented in the appropriate
location:
1) Integrated clinical: The Student Performance Evaluation,
Fall & Spring Clinic Form
2) Fulltime Clinical: PTA CPI: On the VAS and FINAL
comments section of the related performance criteria.
b. The student will receive an ‘F’ for the course and is dismissed from the PTA
program. See ‘After program dismissal’ section (F) below.
E. Successful completion of a Clinical Affiliation after remediation:
1. The student will earn no higher than a ‘C’ grade for the course.
2. The ACCE will contact the C.I. of the next clinical to overview the events of the
clinical, areas of concern to watch for, and strategies to continue with to student for
success.
F. After program dismissal: See AHD Division Retention policy in RSCC catalog Retention &
Readmission section of handbook .
Clinical Site Information Forms (CSIF’s)
CSIF’s of current clinical sites will be maintained in the ACCE’s offices. They will also be located in a
shared computer file for the ACCE and the secretary for Allied Health, Oak Ridge campus. It is the
ACCE’s responsibility to keep a record of all CSIF’s status and update these records as needed. It is the
CCCE’s responsibility to provide the academic program when clinical are initiated with the RSCC PTA
program and to update periodically.
38
The students can view the current CSIF’s online. The students are to review these files in order to assist
them in identifying their choices for clinical affiliations. Prior to going to a clinical affiliation, it will be
MANDATORY for the student to be familiar with the CSIF of the assigned clinical site.
Clinical Contracts
1. Copies of the clinical contracts are kept in the ACCE’s office, the Dean of AHS office and the
Vice President for Student Learning/Chief Academic Officer.
2. New Contracts: See ‘New Clinic Site Protocol’
3. The ACCE maintains a database of clinical contract status. It is the ACCE’s responsibility to
initiate the update of these records.
4. Clinical contract renewal
a. Contract renewal should be initiated at least 60 days prior to the end date of the current
contract.
b. Contract renewal will be maintained by the Dean of AHS with ongoing communication
between the Dean of AHS and ACCE and the fieldwork coordinator of the Occupation
Therapy Assistant Program (OTA), as many of these contracts are shared by the PTA and
OTA programs.
c. If the contract is in-state, but out of RSCC service area, the office of the Vice President
for Student Learning/Chief Academic Officer, will secure permission to the appropriate
service-area college before returning the contracts to the ACCE.
d. When one signed contract is returned to the AHS secretary (the other is kept by the clinic
site), copies will be made. One will be retained by the ACCE, one for the Dean of AHS,
and one for Vice President for Student Learning/Chief Academic Officer. **
e. A student will not be assigned to a clinical site unless the database identifies a current
contract and a copy of the current contract is on file in the ACCE’s office.
f. Periodically, the TBR will update the standard clinical agreement format. This new
format is forward to the college’s administration, then to the dean of AHS, and finally to
the ACCE for implementation
New Clinical Site Protocol
The development of new clinical sites will be tracked by the ACCE using the ‘New Clinical Site Form’.
1. Initial contact may be initiated by multiple sources: the ACCE, a student, a clinic themselves.
2. Initial contact information is completed on the form, as collected by the ACCE. The ACCE then
decides if the clinical site is appropriate and to proceed or not. Factors that affect the decision
include, but are not limited to:
a. Location: likelihood that multiple students will use site over the years
b. Size and condition of clinic
c. Patient/client demographics: number, variety
d. Staff profile: Are PTA’s on staff? If not, have the therapists worked with PTA’s before?
Experience as clinical instructors and consistency in staff coverage are considerations.
3. The ACCE contacts the OTA program fieldwork coordinator regarding any sites that have both
OT and PT staff:
a. to determine if the OTA program has a preexisting relationship with the facility
39
4.
5.
6.
7.
b. to determine if the OTA program is also interested in the site for student placement. If
yes, the contract with be a joint OTA/PTA contract.
A clinical contract is drawn-up by the AHS Dean.
A ‘new site’ packet is mailed to the potential new site that includes:
a. a cover letter with instructions,
b. information about the RSCC PTA program and specifically the clinical education
program,
c. instructions/information that the site needs to review and complete: CSIF and current
clinical schedules.
When the contract is signed, an onsite visit is made by the ACCE.
If the facility becomes an active clinical site: A file will be created in the ACCE’s office that will
include the contract. The CSIF will be available to the student online. The site will be added to
all clinical databases. A current clinical contract status will be recorded in the clinical contract
database. See clinical contracts section.
Clinical Faculty Requirements and Development
1. Clinical Faculty will be physical therapists and/or physical therapist assistants with current
Tennessee licensure, a minimum of one year experience, and selected by the center coordinator of
clinical education (CCCE).
2. Upon completion of the affiliation, The RSCC PTA program will provide written proof of clinical
instructing hours for clinical instructors.
3. CLINICAL INSTRUCTING COURSES: A course for clinical instructors will be offered
annually.
4. Input on Clinical Faculty development by the Clinical Faculty will be collected yearly on the
Clinical Faculty Questionnaire.
5. Students will provide feedback on C.I. effectiveness with the completion of the Student
Evaluation of Clinical Experience form and the Comprehensive Student Evaluation of Clinical
Experience form.
6. The ACCE will track any trends of undesirable outcomes/feedback/observations regarding a
clinical facility or a clinical faculty member. Primary sources will be the ACCE and the student,
and in some cases other clinical faculty. Follow-up with the clinical facility may be warranted.
Adjustments to student assignments will be made accordingly.
Communications with Clinical Faculty
Formal communications with each of the clinical sites occurs in several ways throughout each school
year. These communications are the responsibility of the ACCE.
1.
2.
3.
THE CLINICAL SCHEDULE for the next calendar year is mailed in March to all
CCCE’s.
THE CLINICAL FACULTY QUESTIONNAIRE is mailed to all CCCE’s with the
clinical schedule. It includes sections where the clinical faculty rate the communication
by the ACCE and overall student performance. There is a section on clinical faculty
development with information on clinical instructing courses provided by the RSCC PTA
program and an opportunity for additional clinical faculty input. In the last section, the
clinical site can request updated RSCC PTA clinic forms by e-mail. If there is a rating of
less than 2/5 in parts I or II, the ACCE will notify the CCCE of the clinical facility to
clarify the concerns.
NOTIFICATION OF ALL STUDENT ASSIGNMENTS TO A CLINICAL SITE is
accomplished with 2 letters to the CCCE. The first is mailed at least two months before
the clinical. It includes the clinical dates, the students’ names, and a response form
40
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
acknowledging the assignment. If this form is not returned by stated deadline, the ACCE
will contact the CCCE by phone and/or e-mail to get confirmation. The second letter is
mailed one month before the clinical. It contains the clinical syllabus (with
requirements), a list of skills/learning units completed, and copies of the forms to be used
(except the PTA CPI), clinical visit schedule and methods to contact the ACCE during
the clinical.
CONTACTING THE ACCE DURING CLINICALS: The CCCE and the C.I.’s will have
access to the ACCE’s office number (with voicemail), cell phone number and e-mail per
PTA program letter, PTA program webpage, 2nd letter prior to clinical (see #3) and the
ACCE’s business card will be given to the C.I. by the student on the first clinic day.
During a clinical, the ACCE’s voice mail and e-mail will be checked daily. The cell
phone number is the quickest way for the clinical faculty to contact the ACCE.
CLINIC VISITS: See clinic visits section
RSCC PTA PROGRAM WEBPAGE: The clinical education information is located on
PTA program webpage @ the RSCC website: clinical syllabi and clinic forms, clinical
instructing course dates and brochures, the compiled results of yearly clinical faculty
questionnaire and actions taken based on feedback (see #2), phone numbers, addresses,
and e-mails for the ACCE and the program director.
See ‘Clinical Performance and Evaluation’ section.
REGARDING SPECIAL PERFORMANCE CONCERNS: The ACCE will contact the
clinical faculty by phone and/or a performance contract for the student will be forwarded
before the clinical. See course syllabi, PTA 238,9.
Also see “Confidential and Sensitive Information” section.
Clinic Visits
Visits to a clinical site by the ACCE will occur:
1. When a new site is being developed, See ‘new clinical site protocol’
2. During the full-time clinicals in the summer, about midterm.
3. During the full-time clinical, when a C.I. has determined that a student is at risk for
failing. See syllabi for PTA 256, 257.
4. At the request of a student or clinical faculty.
During a clinical visit, the ACCE will meet with the clinical faculty and the student individually. Then all
interested parties will meet together to develop a consensus of the issues to be addressed, the method of
response, and when/how follow-up will occur.
Current Clinical Sites
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Advanced Rehabilitation, Crossville, TN
Asbury Place, Maryville, TN Functional Pathways
Associated Therapeutics, Knoxville, TN
Ben Atchley Tennessee State Veteran’s Home, Knoxville, TN Functional Pathways
Benchmark PT, various locations
Blount Memorial Hospital and Total Rehab Centers, Maryville, Alcoa and Tellico Plains, TN
Blount Memorial TCU, Maryville, TN
Champion Physical Therapy, various locations
Clinton Therapy Center, Clinton, TN
Contemporary Therapeutic Solutions, Knoxville, TN
Cookeville Regional Medical Center, Cookeville, TN
Cumberland Medical Center, Crossville, TN
Cumberland Village Care & Rehabilitation Center, LaFollette, TN
D1 of Knoxville Physical Therapy Clinic, Knoxville, TN
41
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
Diversicare of Oak Ridge, Oak Ridge, TN
Drayer Physical Therapy, Knoxville, TN
East Tennessee Children’s Rehabilitation Center, Knoxville, TN
East Tennessee Technology Access Center, Knoxville, TN
Enduracare, Knoxville, TN
Foothills Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Center, Knoxville, TN
Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center, Knoxville, TN
Functional Pathways, Knoxville, TN
Golden Living Center-Windwood, Clinton, TN
Grace Rehabilitation, LaFollette and Oneida, TN and in various county schools
Harriman Care and Rehabilitation Center, Harriman, TN
Holston Health & Rehabilitation Center, Knoxville, TN
Huntsville Manor, Huntsville, TN
Jefferson County Nursing Home, Jefferson City, TN
Kids Kabin, Kingston, TN
Kindred Nursing and Rehab – Fairpark, Maryville, TN
Kindred Nursing and Rehab – Loudon, Loudon, TN
Kindred Nursing and Rehab – Northhaven, Knoxville, TN
Kindred Transitional Care, Maryville, TN
Knox County Schools of Knoxville, TN
LaFollette Medical Center and LaFollette Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, LaFollette, TN
LeConte Medical Center, Sevierville and Seymour,TN
LifeCare Centers, various locations
Methodist Medical Center and Methodist Therapy Center, Oak Ridge, TN
Moffet Rehabilitation & Fitness Center, Spring City, TN
Monroe Physical Therapy, Madisonville, TN
MorningView Transitional Care Center, Maryville, TN Functional Pathways
NHC, various locations
Newport Medical Center, Newport, TN
North Knoxville Medical Center, Powell, TN
Oneida Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Oneida, Tennessee
Ortho Tennessee @ Dowell Springs, Knoxville, TN
Ortho Tennessee @ Fort Sanders West, Knoxville, TN
Ortho Tennessee @ Oak Ridge, Oak Ridge, TN
Ortho Tennessee @ Turkey Creek, Knoxville, TN
Pain Consultants of East Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
Parkwest Medical Center, Knoxville, TN
Parkwest Therapy Center at Fort Sanders West, Knoxville, TN
Patricia Neal Outpatient Center of Roane Medical Center, Harriman and
Kingston, TN
Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Center, Knoxville, TN
Peak Performance Rehabilitation, Jamestown TN
Physicians Regional Medical Center, Knoxville, TN
Physiotherapy Associates, Crossville and Knoxville, TN
Picket Care & Rehabilitation Center
Pierce Physical Therapy, Oak Ridge, TN
Pigeon Forge Care & Rehabilitation Center, Pigeon Forge, TN
Pioneer Community Hospital of Scott, Oneida, TN
Roane Medical Center, Harriman, TN
Rockwood Care and Rehabilitation Center, Rockwood, TN
Select Specialty Medical, Knoxville, TN
42
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.
81.
82.
83.
Shannondale Health Care Center, Knoxville, TN
Signature Healthcare of Fentress County, Jamestown, TN
Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation, Chattanooga, TN
South Fork Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation, Huntsville and Oneida, TN
Standing Stone Care & Rehabilitation, Harriman, TN
STAR Physical Therapy, Kingston, TN
Starr Regional Rehabilitation Center, Athens and Etowah, TN
Summitview of Farragut, Farragut, TN
Summitview of Lake City, Lake City, TN
Sweetwater Hospital, Sweetwater, TN
Sweetwater Nursing Center, Sweetwater, TN
Tennessee Orthopedics Centers, Knoxville, Lenoir City, & Oak Ridge, TN
Tennova PT & Sports Medicine North, Powell, TN
Tristate Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation, New Tazwell, TN
Turkey Creek Medical Center, Knoxville, TN
University of Tennessee Medical Center, Knoxville, TN
West Hills Health & Rehabilitation, Knoxville, TN Functional Pathways
Wharton Homes/Upland Village, Crossville, TN Functional Pathways
Wyndridge Health & Rehabilitation Center, Crossville, TN
Clinical Education Review
Each year in August, the ACCE, will review the clinical education outcomes for the previous school year.
First, the ACCE will identify the total number of ‘red flags’. Red flags: 1) any scores of 2 or </5 in Part
I or II of the Clinical Faculty Questionnaire, 2) any student with a performance contract during a clinical
affiliations (whether or not the student ultimately failed or passed the clinical). For each, red flag, the
cause must be identified. Two or more red flags for an academic year require review by the core faculty
to determine if a program weakness exists and if a response is needed. Also, the number and causes of
red flags must be compared over a three year period. Two or more red flags over a three-year period with
similar causes also require review by the core faculty to determine if a program weakness exists and if a
response is needed.
43
Steps to arrange background check:
ROANE STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM
STUDENT INFORMATION AND REQUIREMENTS
BACKGROUND CHECKS AND DRUG SCREENING
General Information
In response to the 2004 Human Resource Standards of the Joint Commission on Accreditation of
Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), the majority of the major healthcare facilities and agencies
that serve as clinical affiliates for RSCC Health Sciences programs will require that all students
undergo a background check prior to participating in clinical rotations at their facilities. The
background check shall include the following:
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)
v)
vi)
Name and Social Security number verification;
Seven-year multi-county felony and related misdemeanor criminal record
Violent Sexual Offender and Predator Registry Search
Tennessee Abuse Registry
Employment verification (previous 2), if applicable;
FACIS Level 3 includes the following:
 HHS/OIG list of excluded individuals/entities
 GSA list of parties excluded from federal programs
 US Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)
 List of Specially Designated Nationals (SDN)
Program Information
No student will be permitted to participate in a clinical rotation at a clinical facility that requires a background
check and drug screening until the College has received a satisfactory search result. Failure to submit the required
background check and drug screening report by the due date established by the Program Director will result in the
student not being assigned to a clinical rotation and dismissal from the program.
Arranging for Your Background Check and Drug Screening
Each student, at his/her expense, will be responsible for acquiring the background check and
drug screening report and authorizing the submission of the results to the College. Students
continuously enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant program will generally only be required
to have one background check and one drug screening, but clinical requires may warrant another
screening at student expense. Students who have a gap in enrollment in the Physical Therapist
Assistant program will be required to have an abbreviated background check and drug screening
at his/her expense when re-enrollment occurs. Students will be required to have a second
fingerprinted background check as part of the Tennessee application for lice ensure as a PTA.
STEP 1: What to do if you need a Background Investigation?
Below are step-by-step instructions for accessing Application Station: Student Edition to
authorize and pay for a background investigation.
1. Click the link below or paste it into your browser: http://www.applicationstation.com
2. Enter the Code: RSCCPTA-CBC in the Application Station Code field.
44
3. Click the "SIGN UP NOW" button to create an account.
4. Follow the instructions on the Application Station web site.
Note – please store the username and password created for Application Station in a secure location. This
information is needed to enter Application Station in the future which includes obtaining a copy of your
background investigation report.
If you encounter issues with the Application Station: Student Edition or have questions regarding the site, please
contact Truescreen’s Help Desk at 888-276-8518, ext. 2006 or itsupport@truescreen.com.
Background Investigations are completed, on average, within 3 to 5 business days. Once completed, you will
receive an email from Truescreen, studentedition@truescreen.com. Follow the link in the email to access
Application Station: Student Edition to view the report. To access the site use the same username and password
created at the time you submitted your background check. Application Station includes instructions for disputing
information included in the background check should you feel anything is incorrect.
The initial background investigation consists of the search components listed below. All records are searched by
primary name and all AKAs, a student’s primary address, and all addresses lived within the past seven years.






Social Security Number Validation and Verification
County Criminal Records Search – all counties of residence lived in the past 7 years
National Sexual Offender Registry Search
Employment Verification – all employers for the past 7 years
SanctionsBase Search
OIG/EPLS Search
The cost of the Background Investigation is $45.00. Truescreen accepts credit cards and PayPal. Payment is
collected within ApplicationStation: Student Edition.
STEP 2: What to do if you need a Drug Screen?
Below are step-by-step instructions for accessing Application Station: Student Edition to
authorize and pay for a drug screen, as well as locate a specimen collection site. Drug screen
collection facilities are listed on the final page of Application Station: Student Edition.
1. Click the link below or paste it into your browser: http://www.applicationstation.com
2. Enter the Code: RSCCPTA-DS in the Application Station Code field.
3. Click the "SIGN UP NOW" button to create an account.
4. Follow the instructions on the Application Station web site.
Note – you can use the same username and password created for the background investigation. Please store the
username and password created for Application Station in a secure location. This information is needed to enter
Application Station in the future which includes obtaining a copy of your drug screen report.
If you encounter issues with the Application Station: Student Edition or have questions regarding the site, please
contact Truescreen’s Help Desk at 888-276-8518, ext. 2006 or itsupport@truescreen.com.
If none of the collection sites listed are convenient (within 30 minute drive), please contact Truescreen’s
Occupational Health Screening Department (i.e. TriTrack and Scheduling Hotline) for assistance with locating an
alternate location; phone number 800-803-7859.
If the initial drug screen is reported as positive/non-negative, you will receive a call from Truescreen’s Medical
Review Officer (MRO). The MRO will obtain medical proof as to why you test positive. If you are taking any form
of prescription medicine, it is wise to proactively obtain proof from your physician to be provided to the MRO when
contacted. This will speed up the process of reporting drug test results.
45
All drug screens conducted for Roane State Community College are 10-panel and tests for:
 Amphetamines
 Cocaine Metabolites
 Marijuana Metabolites
 Opiates
 Phencyclidine
 Barbiturates
 Benzodiazepines
 Methadone
 Propoxyphene
 Methaqualone
You will receive an email from Truescreen, studentedition@truescreen.com, once drug test results are available.
Follow the link in the email to access Application Station: Student Edition to view the report.
The cost of the Drug Screen is $31.00. Truescreen accepts credit cards and PayPal. Payment is collected within
ApplicationStation: Student Edition.
STEP 3: Results
If you receive a “REVIEW” (red X) or “FAIL” (solid red square) on either the background investigation or drug
screen, you should forward the email containing the detailed results from Truescreen to the Program Director or
Clinical Coordinator at delozierea@roanestate.edu AND to the Dean of the Allied Health Sciences Division at
lamanma@roanestate.edu.
After your student identification information has been removed from the detailed report, it will be forwarded to your
prospective clinical site(s) by the Dean of Allied Health Sciences. The clinical site will evaluate the report. If the
clinical site rules favorably you will be permitted to attend your assigned clinical practice.
All documentation will be included in your file for future reference. If the clinical sites rule unfavorably, you will
not be able to participate in clinical rotations. As clinical practice is necessary to successfully complete the Physical
Therapist Assistant program requirements, you will be advised to withdraw from the Physical Therapist Assistant
program.
Report Delivery Manager
Report Delivery Manager (RDM) allows students to distribute an electronic copy of your background check and
drug screen results to a third party for clinical rotations. RDM can be found in Application Station: Student Edition.
Reports are available to students for 36 months. If reports are needed beyond 36 months, students must print a copy
to be distributed as needed.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Click the link below or paste it into your browser: http://www.applicationstation.com
To access the Report Delivery Manager, choose the “If you are returning” option on the left side of the
home page and click “Sign back in.”
Enter the username and password created at the time of submitting your background investigation and/or
drug screen.
Report Delivery Manager can be found at the bottom of the Welcome Back screen.
To authorize a new third party to view a background check, click “Create a New Delivery.”
Read the “Important Notice”, type your name and click “Agree.”
46
7.
Supply the third party’s contact information: Last Name, First Name and Organization. Report Access
Keys are generated, including an ApplicationStation Code and Access PIN.
Truescreen recommends that the student contact the third party and provide the ApplicationStation website
address, code and PIN to their contact verbally. This method provides the highest level of security. However, the
student can also authorize that an e-mail containing this information be sent to the contact at the clinical facility. If
you wish to have an email containing the Access Keys to be sent directly to the clinical facility, follow steps 8 and 9.
8.
9.
To authorize an e-mail, locate “Other Delivery Options, Option 2” and click “here to send an email.”
Provide and confirm the recipient’s e-mail address, and then select either Option 1 or Option 2, which
determines what information is sent to the recipient via e-mail.
The system provides confirmation that an e-mail has been sent, along with the ApplicationStation Code and Access
PIN for future reference.
By my signature, I acknowledge that I have received and read the information provided regarding the background
check. I am aware that if I have questions about the material herein, it is my responsibility to seek assistance from
any Physical Therapist Assistant program faculty member.
Student Name (printed):_____________________________________
Student ID Number: ________________________________________
Student Signature: _________________________________________
Date: _____________________________
47
Consent to Drug/Alcohol Testing
Statement of Acknowledgement of Understanding
Release of Liability
I, ___________________________, am enrolled in •the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Roane
State Community College. I acknowledge receipt and understand the Health Sciences/Nursing Division
policy with regard to drug and alcohol testing, and the potential disciplinary sanctions, which may be
imposed for violation of such policy.
I understand the purpose of this policy is to provide a safe working and learning environment for patients,
students, clinical and institutional staff, and property. Accordingly, I understand that prior to participating
in the clinical experience, I may be required to undergo drug/alcohol testing of my blood or urine. I
further understand that I am also subject to testing based on reasonable suspicion that I am using or am
under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
I acknowledge and understand the intention to test for drugs and/or alcohol and agree to be bound by this
policy. I hereby consent to such testing and understand that refusal to submit to testing or a positive
result of the testing may result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the Physical
Therapist Assistant Program. If I am a licensed health professional, I understand that the state licensing
agency will be contacted if I refuse to submit to testing or if my test result is positive. Full reinstatement
of my license would be required for unrestricted return to the Physical Therapist Assistant Program.
My signature below indicates that:
1.) I consent to drug/alcohol testing as required by clinical agencies or as directed by the office of
the Dean of Student Services and Multicultural Affairs.
2.) I authorize the release of all information and records, including test results relating to the
screening or testing of my blood/urine specimen, to the office of the Dean of Student Services
and Multicultural Affairs, and Kurt Backstrom, Program Director and other RSCC officials
deemed appropriate.
3.) I understand that I am subject to the terms of the general regulations on student conduct and
disciplinary sanctions of the Roane State Allied Health Sciences/Nursing Division Drug and
Alcohol Policy.
4.) I hereby release and agree to hold harmless Roane State Community College, and the Tennessee
Board of Regents, their officers, employees and agents from any and all actions, claims,
demands, damages, or costs arising from such test(s), in connection with, but not limited to, the
testing procedure, analysis, the accuracy of the analysis, and the disclosure of the results.
My signature indicates that I have read and understand this consent and release, and that I have signed it
voluntarily in consideration of enrollment in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program.
__________________________________
Student’s Signature
____________________
Date
__________________________________
Program Director’s Signature
___________________
Date
48