ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Represented by my signature below, I acknowledge that I have received the 2014-15 Lackawanna College PTA Student Handbook. My signature also represents an understanding of the policies and procedures and its contents.

X Signature

X Printed name

X Date

X Witness

Please return this page to the Director of PTA Program

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Lackawanna College Physical Therapist Assistant Program

2014 – 2015 Program Handbook

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Index Introduction page 4 About Lackawanna College page 4 LC Accreditation, Mission Statement and Goals page 5 Program Accreditation Statement page 6 PTA Program Mission Statement, Goals and Objectives page 6 PTA Program Faculty and Staff page 7 School/Program: cost, fees, scholarships, and aide page 11 Student Services page 14 Student Rights and Privileges page 18 LC Student Records page 20 The PTA Profession page 20 Application and Admission to the PTA Program page 25 LCPTA Student Health, Cognitive & Physical Expectations page 27 Non Discrimination and Harassment Policies page 28 Storage Access and Release of Program Student Records page 29 Photo and Video Policy page 29 Academic Requirements and Program Continuation page 30 Program Description & Curriculum Guide page 33 Graduation Requirements page 34 State Board and Licensure Requirements page 37 Grievance Policies page 37 Student Disciplinary Action page 39 Student Evaluation and Grading page 42 Academic Honesty and Integrity page 42 Classroom / Program Policy page 43 Program Safety page 49 Clinical Education Policy page 52 Appendices page 61

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Introduction

This manual is designed to inform the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) student, adjunct, and full time core faculty of the policies and procedures of Lackawanna College’s (LC) PTA Education Program. The rules of the LC PTA program must be followed by all students accepted into the program as well as faculty serving within this program. This handbook is intended to ensure the student’s operational efficiency and safely while in the didactic and clinical components of the program. In order to achieve these goals each PTA student must become thoroughly familiar with the policies listed. All concerns and discrepancies should be brought forth to the Director of the PTA program. Grievances will be reviewed by committee on a case by case basis if deemed necessary.

The quality of the education in the LC PTA program will be positively influenced by the concentrated effort that you put into your work, both clinically and academically. This is your guide for all experiences within the PTA program including both the academic and clinical components. In addition, the PTA student is required to follow the policies and procedures both in the academic setting of the Lake Region Center, other Lackawanna College Campuses, and at the individual affiliated clinical sites.

About Lackawanna College

Lackawanna College's development into the premier community-oriented two-year college in Northeastern Pennsylvania parallels the development of the region. With the growth of the railroads in the 19th Century, demand for the clean-burning anthracite coal greatly expanded. As Scranton emerged as the hub of the nation's coal industry, the Scranton Business College was founded in 1894 to train administrative and fiscal managers and their support personnel.

The College began as a proprietary institution with a full academic program under the direction of H.D. Buck and A.R. Whitmore. John H. Seeley, a noted regional educator, purchased it in 1912. Seeley, who also owned the Lackawanna Business College, merged his two institutions into the Scranton Lackawanna Business College and built a new campus in the city's downtown.

The word "Business" was eventually dropped from the school's name as too restrictive and civil service courses were added to prepare students for governmental positions. The College met with continued success because of its ability to change with the times. With the coming of World War II, the school made a concerted effort to train women for positions in business and industry. After the war, the College adapted its programs once more to meet the needs of returning veterans.

In 1957, the College was incorporated as a non-profit institution under a self-perpetuating Board of Trustees. Chartered as Lackawanna Junior College, course offerings were expanded to include the humanities and the social and behavioral sciences. The Pennsylvania Department of Education granted Lackawanna the right to award associate degrees.

The College is accredited by the Commission of Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, thereby permitting transfer of Lackawanna credits to other accredited institutions. If you wish to receive a copy of the College’s accreditation documentation, please contact the Academic Affairs Office at Academics@lackawanna.edu. It features an open admissions policy and, in addition to its academic degree programs, offers non-credit continuing education courses. Lackawanna also operates academies, such as the Banking Institute, the Local Government Academy, the Paramedic

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Training Institute and the Police Academy, which teach the subjects vital to certain professions or industries.

The College has satellite centers in New Milford, Hazleton, Hawley and Towanda. In 1994, Lackawanna purchased the former Central High School building in downtown Scranton. After over two years of restoration and renovation, Lackawanna moved into the historic building in 1996.

The Scranton Campus has grown even more with the acquisition of several other buildings including the Student Union (former Catholic Youth Center), Seeley Hall, Healey Academic Center, Alumni Fitness Center, McKinnie Hall and Tobin Hall.

Lackawanna College Accreditation:

Lackawanna College is approved by the Pennsylvania State Department of Education to grant associate degrees and is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, which is designated as a National Accrediting Agency by the U.S. Department of Education. If you wish to receive a copy of the College’s accreditation documentation, please contact the Academic Affairs Office at Academics@lackawanna.edu.

Lackawanna College Mission and Goals:

Mission:

Lackawanna College’s mission is to provide a quality education to all persons who seek to improve their lives and better the communities in which they live.

Goals:

Goal 1: To promote the healthy and strategic growth of the institution reflective of mission.

Goal 2: To provide educational pathways to students of all ability levels and with varied career aspirations.

Goal 3: College-wide commitment to improving student persistence.

Goal 4: Commitment to fiscal and strategic planning at both the institutional and departmental level.

Goal 5: Commitment to and celebration of community outreach

Goal 6: Commitment to fostering a culture that develops, supports, and retains College personnel in support of mission. "

PTA Program Accreditation Status:

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Lackawanna College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, Va., 22314. Email: accreditation@apta.org; Website: www.capteonline.org.

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Lackawanna College PTA Program Mission Statement:

The Mission of the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Lackawanna College is to facilitate the preparation of individuals regardless of their socio-economic status, past achievements, gender, national origin, age, race, color or creed, as entry level, associate of science degree earning, physical therapist assistants. These individuals will be compassionate and caring lifelong learners who will provide evidence based ethical treatment to assist the physical therapist in the rehabilitation of all individuals in their care. The program will strive to provide students with a diverse educational setting allowing for academic excellence, and to become socially, culturally, and professionally well rounded clinicians and individuals.

Lackawanna PTA Program Goals:

The program will look to accept 18 highly qualified and capable students each fall term who will represent Lackawanna College, the PTA program, and of Physical Therapist Assistant profession to the best of their capabilities.

Students and graduates will demonstrate professional, legal, and ethical behavior in all academic and clinical settings.

Students and graduates will correctly apply theoretical and conceptual knowledge related to practice as a Physical Therapist Assistant.

Students and graduates will competently perform intervention component and data collection skills in clinical settings, and appropriately modify components of intervention within the guidelines of a plan of care established by a Physical Therapist.

100% of LC PTA program graduates will be successful in obtaining full-time employment related to the physical therapy field within 6 months of graduation.

The program will provide adequate resources needed to support the student – including resources related to financial aid assistance, faculty advising, mentoring, counseling, tutoring, along with adequate equipment, classroom and laboratory space, clinical facility, faculty, and technology to enhance the student’s learning.

The program will enhance the practice of physical therapy in our community by providing opportunities for educational, professional and personal growth.

The program will look to have a retention rate of 75% or higher for each academic semester per individual cohort of accepted students.

The program will look to graduate 18 highly qualified and capable students who will represent Lackawanna College, the PTA program, and of Physical Therapist Assistant profession to the best of their capabilities.

Lackawanna College PTA Program Objectives:

The PTA program's objectives are consistent with curriculum content and expectations as set forth by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) related to expectations for an Entry Level PTA.

Lackawanna College’s PTA Program is designed to prepare graduates who:

Apply knowledge of basic and evidence based PT sciences to the application and

appropriate modification of selected PT procedures. Interact with patients, the patient’s family members or care givers, colleagues, and the

public in a manner that reflects appreciation of the worth of an individual, appropriate

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response to cultural differences, and an understanding of the psychological and social effects of illness and injury.

Demonstrate appropriate and effective written, oral and non-verbal communication with patients, the patient’s family or caregivers, colleagues, and the public.

Recognize their own strengths and limitations, interpret for others their scope and function, and understand the need for continued lifelong education and growth. Always demonstrate a commitment to safe, ethical and legal practice. Understand basic concepts of healthcare and the mechanics of providing healthcare services.

Will sit for the National Licensing Examination upon program achievement of accreditation.

Achieve status of Licensed PTA, and skill level of an entry level PTA.

PROGRAM FACULTY:

Core PTA Faculty

Program Director (PD):

The Program Director (PD) is the lead position for the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Lackawanna College and serves as the Chair of the PTA Advisory group. The PD is the lead administrator and primary faculty directly in charge of all aspects related the running of the PTA program. The PD accepts responsibility for the program’s adherence to accreditation standards, which includes student and faculty compliance to all college, programmatic, federal, state and local policies. The PD oversees the review and modification of program policies and procedures, clinical contracts, curriculum, clinical evaluations, and admissions process.

o The PD job duties are listed as, but not limited to the following:

Teaches within the program as a core faculty member Responsible for the program’s adherence to accreditation standards, which

includes student and faculty compliance to all college, programmatic, federal, state and local policies, and if accreditation is not achieved then they are responsible for bring the program into compliance within the specified time as set by the accrediting body.

Responsible for seeing that all yearly accreditation fees are paid, and yearly accreditation updates are submitted accurately and on time.

Directly responsible for creating and setting all P&P related to the PT program, and its students, with oversight from administration, and in coordination with the other core faculty and advisory group.

Responsible for the curricular design, and implementation Direct supervision of all core and adjunct faculty members including hiring,

mentoring, and annual performance assessment. Responsible for purchasing new program equipment and supplies, monitoring

current equipment for proper functioning and safety, and setting up yearly equipment inspection.

Submission of the yearly program budget and oversight of the current budget for the betterment and advancement of the program.

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Responsible for leading and organizing all efforts in terms of recruitment and advertisement for the program, establishing, assessing and overseeing the program application process and admissions process.

Responsible for setting up and advisory group meetings, or if meetings are not feasible due to scheduling then having direct communication to the advisory group with periodic updates and requests for review of program items.

Responsible for maintaining and ensuring all student records are secured and remain confidential

Receives all complaints in reference to the program and documents these complaints in a timely manner, passing on this information to administration. If complaints are in reference to the PD then the ACCE or Associate VP of Academic affairs will perform this duty as needed.

Maintains program web page, updating information as needed including information relating to admission and graduation rates, tuition and program costs, and other demographic or statistical data related to the program.

Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education (ACCE):

The Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education (ACCE) is a primary core faculty member directly in charge of all aspects related the Clinical Education component of the program. They are considered second in hierarchy only to the PD within the program. In conjunction with the PD, the ACCE accepts responsibility for the program’s adherence to accreditation standards, including student and faculty compliance to all college, programmatic, federal, state and local policies. The ACCE is ultimately responsible to identify, arrange and monitor safe, appropriate and effective clinical learning environments for students within the program. Together with the PD, adjunct faculty and clinical instructors, the ACCE monitors student’s clinical progress and performance, professional skill development and readiness for the certification examination.

o The ACCE’s job duties are listed as, but not limited to the following: Teaches within the program as a core faculty member Responsible for identifying possible clinical affiliations, gauging facility interest,

and if applicable setting up a contractual agreement with clinical sites Responsible for yearly assessment of clinical sites and establishing up to date lists

of viable sites for continued contractual agreements. Assignment of students to clinical sites, and supervising of students on clinical

affiliations with the assistance of the other core faculty for sites visitation Responsible for providing the final grade for the student within each clinical

rotation based on feedback provided by the CI using the CPI as the primary assessment tool for student performance.

Assisting the PD in other duties as dictated for the day to day running of the program.

Clinical Faculty – The clinical faculty are directly involved in the supervised clinical education of the program students while they are on full time clinical assignments. They are the bridge between the academic program and the student’s direct patient interaction and care, and are responsible for the continued education of the students while in their progression toward the level of entry level clinician. The clinical faculty interacts and report to the ACCE in response to all question and concerns regarding the program students while out on clinical assignments. They

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are responsible for the assessment of the student’s level and quality of performance, but do not provide a final grade for the student.

Criteria for Serving as a Clinical Educator/Instructor:

1. You must be a licensed Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant in good standing with the board of certification. 2. You must have at least 1 year of clinical experience. 3. You must be willing and able to uphold Lackawanna College’s Clinical Commitment to Excellence.

Adjunct Faculty: Adjunct faculty are utilized within the PTA program as needed to oversee and

manage specific coursework as determined and assigned by the Program Director. Adjunct faculty are expected to adhere to accreditation standards, including student and faculty compliance to all college, programmatic, federal, state and local policies. They answer directly to the Program Director. They may be asked to participate with the admissions review process. To be considered adjunct faculty, an individual would be responsible for teaching greater than 50% of content in a specified course.

Supporting Faculty: Supporting faculty are individuals with expertise within a given content area that are utilized to instruct or “guest lecture” in a particular course. These individuals would not be considered part of the core faculty and would be responsible for teaching less than 50% of the content in a given course.

Lab Assistants: Lab assistants are utilized within the PTA program as determined by the

Program Director for the purposes of supporting skill development and assisting in testing students on clinical proficiency skills within the laboratory setting along with providing appropriate and timely feedback during the learning process. Lab assistants are expected to adhere to accreditation standards, including student and faculty compliance to all college, programmatic, federal, state and local policies. They answer directly to the Program Director as well as any course instructor for whom they are supporting.

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Program Faculty Development:

The PTA program faculty, with the input of the administration, developed the following policy relating to the PTA program’s faculty development:

"Following the approval of the program’s annual budget, the PD, ACCE and Associate VP of Academic Affairs will set a meeting date during the summer term to formulate the upcoming academic year's faculty development plan for all PTA program faculty. To identify areas that would benefit from development and establish each indiviudal’s plan, the PD, ACCE and Associate VP of Academic Affairs will consider: information gained from the prior two years of student, course, clinician, and graduate assessments, peer or supervisor observation of teaching, professional CE responsibilities, and faculty members’ personal opinions regarding the areas most in need of development. Using the "Faculty

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Development Plan Form," the PD and ACCE will present a plan to the the Associate VP. This plan that will identify at least 2 areas of developmental need and can be related to to any of the following:

Administrative duties or developemnt: Teaching responsibilities / course content: Pedagogy Professional licensure and advancement : Areas of Professional Interest / Specialization: Needs within the Institution

Once areas of need have been identified and presented to the administration, the faculty members then have the responsibility to identify where and/or how they will address their developemnt within this area. Options may include but are not limited to attendance at a local, regional or national meeting to stay current with changes and advancments within the profession, attendance at an instiution-sponsored faculty development session/offering, attendance at a PA approved CEU course, or other developmental activies. With the Associate VP's approval and signature, the faculty will then be responsible for finding and attending said continuing education symposiums or meetings related to each content area, upon approval of their immediate supervisor, and falling within budgetary allowances. Each PTA faculty member must also attend at least one or more College wide faculty development offering per year, as well as have their teaching formally reviewed in person one time per year by their immediate supervisor or the head of their academic divsion. After each spring term, the PD and ACCE, along with any other future full time faculty, will set a meeting with the Associate VP to assess completion or progression of the established faculty development plans, verify that the previous year’s plan has been completed, and submit their plan for the upcoming year following the procedures established above.

PTA Program Advisory Group:

Group Structure:

The PTA advisory group will be comprised of individuals who have experience in either the academic and professional settings. Participation in the PTA advisory group will not be restricted to only Licensed PTs or PTAs. The group will have a maximum of 15 members not including the PTA Program Director, ACCE or administrative personnel.

There will always be at least one student member serving within the group. The PTA program director will extend an invitation to potential student members. This individual will represent both the 1st and 2nd year class regardless of their current progression within the curriculum.

There will be 1 general education faculty member invited to serve on the PTA advisory board. This individual may also be an adjunct or part time faculty.

o They will serve to bridge to gap between the technical portions of the PTA program with the College Core Curriculum, and would serve to provide input and advisement in matters relating to the PTA students and the core curriculum and requirements.

The other 13 seats on the advisory group would be split between other professionals and stakeholders within the surrounding community.

If possible and based on availability there will be no fewer than 3 Licensed PTAs represented within the group.

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Membership:

Participation as a member of the Lackawanna College Advisory Group is strictly on a volunteer

basis, and there will be no monetary compensation for participation. Membership will run from January 1st to December 31st

At the end of the calendar year the PD will send out invitations to current group members to return as advisory group for the following year. There is no obligation to remain and advisory group member and any individual who would like to resign their seat within the group are free to do so at any time, and not just at the end of the calendar year.

It will be the PDs responsibility to fill an open seats within the group prior to the first meeting of the upcoming calendar year

Meetings:

At least two formally scheduled meetings will be held each calendar year. Once during the spring

semester and once during the fall semester. Other meetings will be scheduled on an as needed basis.

o Informal communication of news and events relating to the PTA program, and/or input needed from the group will take way through either email or letters to the group members, and will be conveyed by the Program Director.

It will be the responsibility of the current PTA Program director to set the yearly schedule for all meetings, send out invitations out to current group members to attend the meetings, and provide ahead of time a meeting itinerary for the group members to review prior to the meetings.

o If more than 50% of group members are unable to attend then a new meeting date will be scheduled

The PD director will be responsible for the running of the meeting, but the group as a whole will have input into the meetings and round table discussion is encouraged

The ACCE or another selected faculty member will be responsible for recording meeting minutes and sending out finalized meeting minutes to all group members after final approval by the program director.

MAINTAINING ACCREDITATION STANDARDS

All duties that are related to remaining in compliance with or adhering to accreditation standards as set by CAPTE and the APTA will be the responsibility of the PTA Program Director. The PD will be responsible for the budgeting and oversight of the submission of all required fees and documentation relating to accreditation, the annual submission of reports and listing of demographics and statics directly related to the program, along with any further information requested by the accrediting body. The PD will also be responsible for contacting the administration, submitting materials to the appropriate committees, and informing and conferring with the PTA advisory group should substantiative changes either be planned for or arise unexpectedly. With the input from all invested parties and with the assistance of the full time core faculty members, changes will then be recorded and

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made. Requests and reports of such changes to CAPTE will also be the responsibility of the PD.

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COSTS, FEES, SCHOLARSHIPS AND AIDE:

Program Costs / Tuition

Any student accepted within the PTA program at Lackawanna College will be responsible for all tuition and fees needed to complete the entirety of this program including, but not limited to: fees for credits taken, additional books and supplies, costs of appropriate clinical attire, travel expenses for attending clinical sites, transportation costs while commuting to school, and other costs related to his program.

Should you have specific information regarding your tuition or fees, it is advised that you contact the Business office at 1-877-346-3552 or e-mail for specific individuals can be found at http://www.lackawanna.edu/business/index.html. Below is the most current listing of costs related to attending Lackawanna College and can also be found at (https://www.lackawanna.edu/admissions/tuition.html)

Tuition Fall 2012 - Spring 2013 Tuition, Room and Board, and Fees:

In order to facilitate planning and budgeting for college expenses, Lackawanna College provides a flat tuition schedule for all full-time students. By doing so, the College makes it possible for students and their parents to know in advance exactly what the cost of acquiring an associate degree will be.

A full-time student is defined as an individual who is taking 12 or more degree credits in a semester. Under Lackawanna College's flat tuition schedule, a full-time student may take anywhere from 12 to 18 credits per semester for the same fee. This option permits students to arrange their schedules in a manner that best fits their educational needs.

Tuition

Flat Fee (12-18 credits) $6000 per semester

Full-Time (19+ credits) $410 per credit

Part-Time (1-11 credits) $410 per credit

Room and Board

Resident Housing $2650 per semester

Meal Plan $1200 per semester

Mandatory security deposit $275

Additional Fees

Activity fee (Scranton only) $105 per semester

Activity fee (Lake Region only) $75 per semester

Technology Fee (All campuses) $35 per semester (Full time students only)

Lab Fee (3 credit course) part time/19+ credit students $75

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Lab Fee (1 credit course) part time/19+ credit students $25

Hospitality majors $125 per semester

Culinary majors $125 per semester

Physical Therapist Assistant majors $125 per semester

Communications Fee $75 per course

Special Fees

Drop/Add Fee $15.00

Change of Major Fee $15.00

Transcript Request Fee $5.00

Late Registration Fee $30.00

Change of Grade/Incomplete Fee $20.00

Late Submission Graduation Fee $150.00

Life Experience Processing Fee $35.00

Late Payment/Financial Arrangement Fee $50.00

Stop Payment Fee $50.00

Return Check Fee $20.00

PTA Program Costs:

There are additional costs in the PTA program beyond the tuition at Lackawanna College. These costs may include but are not necessarily limited to:

Health examination, tests and immunization Child abuse clearance Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Offense Check Textbooks Binders APTA membership Transportation cost to clinical sites CPR certification Professional style clothing Name Tag Drug testing (should they be requested/required by clinical sites)

PTA Students should work with Financial Aid in advance to make all payments to the institution prior to engaging in didactic or clinical work. Students are financially responsible for all cost associated with the program. The PTA program strongly urges all students to meet regularly with a financial advisor.

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Student Financial Obligations for Clinical Expenses:

Clinical experiences support the didactic and laboratory educational component of the PTA Program at Lackawanna College. Inherent within these clinical experiences are financial requirements that may vary between clinical placements. The three clinical rotations scheduled within the program carry the following credit values: Clinical Education I: 3 credits; Clinical Education II: 5 credits; Clinical Education III: 5 credits. Students are wholly responsible for the financial requirement of these credits, just as they are for any other credit bearing course. Students should be aware of total credit loads for each of these semesters and plan appropriately for the cost and presence and/or absence of financial aid.

Students are financially responsible for all expenses related to each clinical affiliation. These may include but are not limited to gas, housing, meals and dress code requirements. Additionally, students are required, beginning in the Spring of 2013, to provide a 10 panel urinalysis drug screen, 30 days prior to the start of each semester. Finally, state, federal and child abuse clearances are required on an annual basis, prior to the start of each semester. The aforementioned items are solely the responsibility of the student.

Financial Aide:

It has become increasingly apparent that financial aid is a necessity for almost everyone attending college today. Lackawanna College is sensitive to this challenge. Lackawanna College views financing higher education as a partnership between the student and his/her family, the state and federal governments, and the institution. It is our hope that together this partnership will make it financially feasible to fulfill our mission to prepare a student for a successful future.

90% of the Lackawanna student body receives some form of financial aid. Each student’s financial situation is individually assessed after a thorough review of financial information submitted by each applicant’s family. In order to begin the financial aid application process, the federal government requires you to complete the FAFSA.

The school code for Lackawanna College is 003283.

For information related to financial aid contact the Financial Aid Office at:

Office of Financial Aid (Angeli Hall) Suite 114, 501 Vine Street, Scranton Pa 18509 Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00AM - 4:00PM P. 570.961.7859 F. 570.961.7893 E. FinancialAid@lackawanna.edu

Scholarships:

The most up to date information regarding scholarship opportunities can be found at: https://www.lackawanna.edu/financial/scholarships.html

Other Information/Links regarding financial aid:

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Can be found on LC’s main web site at: http://www.lackawanna.edu/financial/links.html

STUDENT SERVICES:

Health Services

Health services are not available onsite. Any campus health emergencies will be handles by the Security Officers. If a health emergency should occur onsite, school authorities will call an ambulance service for any medical emergency involving a student of the Lackawanna College Lake Region Center. If a health emergency arises during a clinical experience, the student may be seen in the Emergency Department of the healthcare agency or follow the emergency procedure of the agency.

Students also have access on Main Campus to health services. Effective the summer of 2011, The Wright Center for Primary Care is providing health care services to our students at the Scranton Campus.

The Wright Center for Primary Care (WCPC) Student Health Services division is committed to helping students maintain healthy lifestyles by empowering and accommodating them with accessible, affordable, student-focused and culturally sensitive healthcare. WCPC provides an inter-professional team based delivery of high quality primary care health services to Lackawanna College students in Seeley Hall, 406 North Washington Ave.

Hours of operation are: Monday through Wednesday 8 AM to Noon 1 PM to 5 PM Thursday and Friday 1 PM to 5 PM

WCPC phone number is 570.955.1474.

The student’s health insurance will be used to cover the cost of service. In cases where insurance is unavailable, the WCPC will work with the student to insure availability of service.

24 hour service for emergencies will also be available by calling the center number, which will be forwarded to the chief resident on call at CMC. The chief resident will also be able to assist with residents needing mental health evaluation. In the case of a student needing to be taken to CMC for evaluation after hours, a call to the chief resident will enable them to be ready for the student’s arrival, and will keep the center staff in the loop.

Services will include routine care for common illnesses, and they are able to prescribe antibiotics and X-Rays. Athletic related injuries will continue to be handled through our trainers, but they are certainly able to partner with them.

Our contact staff at the center right now is:

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Beckie Krott Physician’s Assistant krottr@thewrightcenter.org Kellen Kraky Administrative Assistant krakyk@thewrightcenter.org

Further information regarding the student health center can be directed to Suellen Musewicz at musewiczs@lackawanna.edu or (570)961-7824

Career Services:

The Career Services Office supports vocational students and alumni of Lackawanna College in exploring and making effective career choices.

Educating: Future career options and choices.

Advising: Guidance pertaining to resumes, cover letters, portfolios and interviewing skills. Your Career Service Coordinator connects students to information and opportunities.

The career planning process involves identifying your interests, skills and values; setting goals; developing your resume; interview preparation; establishing networking contacts; and implementing successful job search strategies. The Career Services Office offers personalized career assistance through a variety of Career Service Programs. Assistance is provided in one-on-one meetings or by phone or e-mail..

In addition other career services available to LC students include assistance with cover letter and resume writing, creating professional portfolios, job searching strategies, career development workshops, and interviews.

Further information regarding career services can be found at https://www.lackawanna.edu/career/index.html and https://www.lackawanna.edu/career/students.html

A listing of other career services links can be found at: https://www.lackawanna.edu/career/links.html

F.O.W.L. - The FALCON Online Writing Lab and Tutoring

Writing Specialist

On F.O.W.L, students can receive assistance with any of their college classes that require an essay. Assistance with MLA formatting and grammar help are available at the click of a button. Lackawanna College students can e-mail the lab with questions about work for their classes and receive answers within two to three hours.

What Online Tutoring Does For Students

Individualized or online tutoring does not substitute for traditional classroom learning. Tutoring online is meant for additional support during hours the labs are not open. The online tutor can help you with questions about MLA formatting and grammar. For comprehensive essay help after lab hours, see Mr. Don Korinda in the Academic Support Lab located on the first floor of Seeley Hall to register for Smart Thinking.

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Further information regarding the writing lab and tutoring can be found at https://www.lackawanna.edu/academics/writing/index.html or contact Dawn Mizwinski Welsey at wesleyd@lackawanna.edu

Benefits & Resources for LC Alumni:

The Lackawanna College Alumni Association is proud to offer a variety of benefits and resources for all LC Alumni. Please contact the Office of Alumni Relations if you have any questions or would like more information.

Benefits for All Alumni

Lackawanna College Career Services Center Continued use of Seeley Memorial Library Discounted Membership to the Alumni and Fitness Center Meridian Avenue, Scranton, PA Discounts to select College Athletic Events Invitations to Special Alumni Events Discounts on selected Mellow Theater Performances The Ledger, Lackawanna College Alumni Association Newsletter

Resources for All Alumni

Transcript Request Lackawanna College Diploma Replacement

For more information regarding alumni benefits and resources go to: https://www.lackawanna.edu/alumni/resources.html

Disability Support Services:

Lackawanna College is an equal employment and educational opportunity institution conforming to all applicable legislation which prohibits discrimination. Lackawanna College will provide reasonable accommodation for any qualified student with known disabilities provided the accommodation does not pose an undue hardship on the College. Some examples of accommodations provided by the College are the following:

• Extended time on exams • Taped versions of exams • Exams in alternate forms • Exams in a distraction-free environment • Alternative methods of demonstrating mastery of course objectives • Allow student to tape when necessary

Students requesting accommodation must begin by submitting documentation to the Admissions Office. Such documentation consists of a diagnostic report supplied by a certified or an appropriately licensed professional on the basis of an examination conducted within the last four years. The diagnostic report should include specific recommendations for accommodations as well as an explanation as to why each accommodation is recommended. If the disability is physical, including hearing or vision impairment, or

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if it has any other medical implications, including psychiatric, the student should so indicate on the College Health Form.

A student seeking accommodations must meet with the Department of Academic Development, First Floor, Seeley Hall, at the beginning of each semester. Students are responsible for securing appropriate documentation and notifying the College if accommodations are required. A school plan such as an individualized education plan (IEP) is insufficient documentation. Accommodations cannot be made for students who do not provide the necessary documentation. The final determination of appropriate and reasonable accommodations rests with the institution. All services are arranged individually on an as- needed basis. The services may vary from course to course and semester to semester. Therefore, students may not automatically be granted each accommodation requested. Total cost to the College for ADA student accommodations cannot exceed 20% of the student’s tuition each semester. Students should schedule an appointment well in advance of the need for services. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 961-7821.

STUDENT RIGHTS:

Students have the right to expect an educationally sound program of classroom and clinical instruction delivered and evaluated by the faculty in an objective manner. Students have the right to due process as outlined in the Grievance Procedure in this Handbook and the College Student Handbook.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act 0f 1974 Notification:

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. This act, with which the institution intends to comply fully, was designed to protect the privacy of education records, to establish the right of students to inspect and review their education records, and to provide guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading data through informal and formal hearings. Students also have the right to file complaints with The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Office (FERPA) concerning alleged failures by the institution to comply with the act.

Questions concerning the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act may be referred to the Registrar.

Notification of Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 as Amended

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights are as follows:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the

College receives a request for access.

Students should submit to the Registrar, Academic Dean, Academic Division Chair, or other appropriate official, written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The College official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the College official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

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2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading.

Students may ask the College to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the College official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

If the College decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the College will notify the student of the decision and advise the student his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the

student’s education records, with the exception of information that FERPA authorizes as being open to disclosure without consent.

One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the College has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures

by Lackawanna College to comply with the requirement s of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW., Washington D C 20202-4605

DIRECTORY INFORMATION

Lackawanna College hereby designates the following categories of student information as public or “Directory Information”. Such information may be disclosed by the institution for any purpose, at its discretion.

Category I : Name, address, email address, telephone number, dates of attendance, class, photographic view or electronic images, when such images are taken and utilized within the framework of college business.

Category II: Previous institution(s) attended, major field of study, awards, Honors, degree(s) conferred (including dates).

Currently enrolled students may withhold disclosure of any category of information under the Family Educational Rights Act of 1974. If a student wishes to withhold disclosure of directory information,

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written notification of this intent must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar. Forms requesting the withholding of “Directory Information” are available in the Registrar’s Office.

Lackawanna College assumes that failure on part of any student to specifically request the withholding of categories of “Directory Information” indicates approval for disclosure.

Lackawanna College students may be assured that even with their permission; Directory Information is only disclosed to non-institution persons or entities with professional discretion.

Lackawanna College is a private, non-profit educational institution. Degree programs are accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Lackawanna College is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative-Action educational institution.

STUDENT RECORDS:

The College will not disclose any identifiable information from the student educational records without written consent from the student. Some exceptions include the issuances of a subpoena, Veterans Administration, school officials and professional employees within the college that have a legitimate educational interest, outside agencies acting on behalf of the institution, and in an emergency situation to act on behalf of the student’s health and safety.

PARENTAL ACCESS TO CHILDREN’S EDUCATIONAL RECORDS:

At the post secondary level, parents have no inherent right to inspect a student’s educational records without written consent from the student. The right to inspect is limited solely to the student. Records may only be released under the following circumstances:

o Written consent of the student o Compliance with a subpoena o Submission of evidence that the parents declared the student as a dependent on their most recent

federal income tax form.

The College is not required to disclose information from the student’s educational records to any parent of a dependent student.

Student Right to Know ACT Information

In compliance with the Student Right to Know Act, current re-enrollment rates, athletic graduation rates and campus security statistics are published and posted. Graduation rates are available at the Registrar’s Office, Student Activities Office and on Lackawanna College’s World Wide Web site. Other rates are available through the corresponding departments.

For more information regarding to information stated above please see: https://www.lackawanna.edu/registrar/GeneralInfo/act.html

THE PTA Profession: 2014 Page 20

Essential Functions of a Physical Therapist Assistant

According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Physical Therapy is a health profession whose primary purpose is the promotion of optimal human health and function. This purpose is accomplished through the application of scientific principles to the process of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention to prevent or remediate impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities as related to movement and health. Physical Therapy encompasses areas of specialized competence and includes the development of new principles and applications to effectively meet existing and emerging health needs. Other professional activities that serve the purpose of physical therapy are research, education, consultation, and administration.

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a technically educated healthcare provider who assists the physical therapist in provision of physical therapy. The PTA is a graduate of a physical therapist assistant associate degree program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTAs) provides physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. PTAs help people of all ages who have medical problems, or other health related conditions that limit their ability to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives. PTAs work in a variety of settings including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health, nursing homes, schools, sports facilities, and more. PTAs must complete a 2 year associate’s degree and are licensed, certified, or registered in most states. The PTAs' duties can include assisting in instructing patients in exercises and activities of daily living (including physical modalities), using special equipment, collecting data on the patient's progress, and documenting and reporting on the patient's response.

Care provided by a PTA may also include teaching patients/clients exercises for mobility, strength and coordination, training for activities such as walking with crutches, canes or walkers, massage, and the use of physical agents and electrotherapy such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation.

Foundational Skills and Abilities of a Physical Therapist Assistant:

The following information is provided to assist the student in better understanding the demands of the PTA program and profession, and the abilities needed to successfully and safely complete the classroom, laboratory, and clinical competencies of the curriculum.

1. Communication: The student must be able to read, write, see, speak, hear and interpret both written and verbal communication in English. The student must be able to communicate effectively, appropriately and sensitively with patients, the patient’s family or caregivers, and health care providers.

2. Motor: The student must be able to perform complex motor skills necessary to provide

therapeutic intervention and emergency treatment to patients and possess the necessary physical strength to transfer, ambulate, and reposition patients safely. The student must have sufficient gross and fine motor functions to asses patients through palpation and manual muscle testing.

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3. Observation: The student must be able to observe and interpret signs and symptoms using visual, auditory, and tactile senses for the purpose of appropriate assessment and treatment. Appropriate observation skills will enable the student to discern normal from abnormal in order to determine a safe and appropriate course of action.

4. Intellectual/Analytical: The student must be able to measure, calculate reason, analyze,

evaluate, and synthesize the demands of a physical therapist assistant and need to be performed in an efficient and timely manner. The student should also be able to comprehend three- dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures.

5. Behavioral: The student must be able to function effectively under stress and in changing

educational and work environments with appropriate professional behaviors. The exercise of sound, professional judgment and the ability to be flexible are also necessary. Common sense, compassion, integrity, honesty, sincere concern and respect for others, interpersonal skills and self motivation are all qualities necessary for success in the physical therapy profession.

American Physical Therapist Association

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is the national association for physical therapist and physical therapist assistants. The APTA is the best source for current information on professional issues and concerns. It is the voice of the profession, actively working to represent the physical therapy profession on Capitol Hill and in state legislatures. The association is dedicated to advancing the profession, setting standards, encouraging research, and promoting diversity within the field. Your membership in the APTA is your key to keeping informed about the topics, trends and issues that affect the practice of physical therapy.

It is essential that you consider joining the APTA in order to remain abreast of opportunities and advancements in physical therapy. Students receive discounts when joining the organization on a state and national level, as well as any special sections you may choose. As a member of the APTA, you will receive several publications and be afforded many other benefits. The APTA can be a valuable resource during your professional education. Take advantage of all that your professional association has to offer.

For more information and student membership please visit www.apta.org.

The LC PTA program strongly encourages student membership in the APTA as the initial step toward professional development as a PTA.

Professional Behaviors:

The Lackawanna College PTA Student is expected to conduct him/herself in a professional manner at all times while representing the school. The following standards of professionalism are considered mandatory for all PTA students:

Preparation (for both lectures and clinical) Effective communication (both verbal and non-verbal) Enthusiasm/positive attitude Effective team work/cooperation Accepts and benefits from constructive criticism Recognition of the impact of one’s behavior on others, especially patients; modification of inappropriate behavior

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Accountability/legal and ethical responsibilities Respectful and courteous at all times.

Additionally, the American Physical Therapy Association outlines “Standards of Ethical Conduct for the PTA”. It is the expectation of Lackawanna College’s PTA Program that these standards be promoted and upheld by both the students and PTA faculty. A copy of this document is included in the subsequent pages of this handbook.

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APPLICATION AND ADMISSIONS TO THE PTA PROGRAM

PROGRAM ADMISSION:

The PTA Program at Lackawanna College is a rigorous two year academic program that will challenge the student academically, physically, and mentally. The admission process into the PTA program is competitive. Due to the high standards held within this program, and to ensure that LC is producing the highest quality of entry level PTA’s capable of passing the National PTA licensure exam, a detailed selective process is established to assist in selecting the best qualified applicants. The PTA program admits a maximum of 18 students into the program on a yearly basis. This is to ensure quality clinical education experiences and prepared students into the program. If a student is not selected into the program, they are encouraged to speak with the Program Director for recommendation on strengthening their application for selection in a later class, or for options relating to other educational options. They may apply for the program again the following year.

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Admission Requirements:

Admittance into the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Lackawanna College is based on a selective admissions process with a maximum enrollment of eighteen (18) students per year. The admissions selection process is based on the following criteria and requirements:

1. Application to Lackawanna College and a separate application to Physical Therapist

Assistant program. a. The application deadline for the Physical Therapist Assistant Programs is March 1

(deadline may be subject to extension. b. All documents must be submitted or post marked by deadline to be considered.

2. Must meet the college’s minimum requirements

a. Applicant must submit proof of high school or GED completion with official high school transcript or GED equivalent.

b. Lackawanna College will determine the applicant’s current academic ability based on a combination of following:

1. SAT or ACT test scores, if applicable -Recommended SAT scores-450 Verbal and 450 Math. -Recommended ACT scores-20 or higher in each relevant section. -Most scores are valid up to three (3) years from test date.

2. College Transfer Credits

If transferring credits from another college/university, official college transcripts are required. Transfer credits must be at least 2.33 or greater to meet PTA program academic standards.

3. Placement Test Applicants without valid SAT/ACT scores and who have not previously earned college credits will be required to take the ACCUPLACER exam for determination of current academic ability. Applicants mustachieve ‘College Ready’ scores in Reading, Writing, and Math to be considered qualified for the PTA Program. Should a student need one or move developmental or introductory courses based

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on placement scores, the needed classes would have to be completed prior to entry into the initial academic term for the PTA program. If not completed prior to the initial academic term, the student would not be eligible to proceed into the PTA program, but would be eligible to reapply for the following year.

3. Completion of a Biological Science course

a. If completed in high school, the course must be no more than three (3) years old b. Three (3) credit college level course required, with lab recommended and 2.33 grade or

higher is acceptable 1. May include Biology, Physics, Chemistry, or Anatomy and Physiology 2. If Anatomy and Physiology is used as the prerequisite course, it must be taken as

a four (4) credit course including lab to be eligible for transfer into the PTA program.

c. Completion of science course at either the high school or college level must again be evidenced in the form of an official high school or college transcript

4. 20 hours of clinical observation

a. It is required that applicants observe “job shadow” in more than one type of PT setting b. Must have completed and signed confirmation sheets received by program along with or

prior to submitting your application. 5. Evidence of current Adult, Child, and Infant CPR certification and AED certification

prior to beginning of fall semester. (Online courses will NOT be accepted due to clinical affiliation requirements)

6. Two program essays as described within the separate PTA program application completed and received with submittal of the application

7. Students may only transfer in college credits for the following PTA program core courses and only if accepted by LC for direct transfer. These include the following:

a. College Writing (3 credits) b. Computer Applications (3 credits and taken within the last five (5) years) c. Anatomy and Physiology 1 (4 credits) -* d. Medical Terminology (1 credit) e. Medical Ethics (3 credits) – * f. Effective Speaking (3 credits) g. College Algebra (3 credits) h. Introduction to Psychology (3 credits)

* It is recommended that these courses be taken within the PTA program due to course content taught towards or related to the PTA profession. All other courses within the PTA program curriculum must be taken within the LC PTA program and are not eligible for transfer.

8. Interviews will be scheduled for qualified PTA program applicants who meet minimum

requirements and submit a fully completed application with all materials received by the PTA department.

a. Submission of a PTA application does not guarantee an offer of an interview

9. Attendance at PTA Program Open House / Informational Meeting will be required prior to fall term beginning.

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a. Several dates and times will be made available to allow students, parents or legal guardians, and working individuals to attend, and will be posted periodically on the PTA Program web page.

b. Informational sessions can be set up and scheduled individually with the PTA program director or Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education on an as needed basis, IF the applicant is unable to attend any of the provided group sessions.

LC PTA Student Health, Cognitive and Physical Expectations:

Health Requirements

A physical examination and form signed by a physician, immunization records and all background checks meeting hospital and program standards must be completed prior to entry into the 1st semester of the program.

Affiliated clinical sites may require additional medical information and/or inoculations for the students Begin their clinical program. The student is responsible for any cost associated with these additional requirements.

Work Hours and Environment:

Able to work up to 8-10 hours per day up to 40 hours per week at clinical sites. Exposure to hazardous material and blood borne pathogens requiring safety equipment such as masks, head coverings, glasses, rubber and latex gloves, etc. Must be able to meet clinical and academic performance standards. Must have reliable transportation to travel to and from training site. Clinical sites may be located within a 60 mile radius of the Hawley, LRC.

Cognitive Abilities:

Understand and work from written and verbal orders. Possess effective verbal and written communication skills. Understand and be able to implement related regulations and clinical policies and procedures. Possess technical competency in patient care and related areas. Perform presentations to individuals and small groups. Assess changes in patient status by inspection of assessment notes in patient charts, interpretation of vital signs and/or other measurements.

Physical Abilities:

Standing and/or walking up to seven hours throughout an eight to ten hour shift. Bending, crouching, or stooping several times per hour. Lifting and carrying a minimum of 30 pounds several times per hour. Lifting and moving up to a 300 lb patient in a 2-3 person transfer. Reaching overhead, above the shoulder at 90 degrees multiple times throughout a full work day. Pushing and/or pulling objects and equipment weighing up to 300 lbs.

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Utilizing eyesight to observe patients, monitor equipment readings, manipulate equipment and accessories and read patient charts for interpretation of PT or other health care professional’s notes.

Hearing to communicate with the patient, patient’s family or caregiver, and health care team.

Utilizing sufficient verbal and written skills to effectively and promptly communicate in English with the patient, patient’s family or caregiver, and healthcare team.

Manipulating medical equipment and accessories, including but not limited to switches, knobs, buttons, and keyboards, utilizing fine and gross motor skills.

Performing the assigned training related tasks/skills responsibilities with the intellectual and emotional function necessary to ensure patient safety and exercise independent judgment and discretion.

Utilizing the above standards/functions to respond promptly to the patient needs and/or emergency situations.

Student Health Insurance: All students admitted to the PTA program must carry current health insurance prior to the progression into their first clinical assignment. Students may be delayed progressing into clinical assignments if proof of health insurance (copy of the health insurance card front and back) is not provided to the PD or ACCE to be placed within the student file. (See full Health Insurance Policy on page 45 of this handbook.)

Non Discrimination and Harassment Policies

Student Non Discriminatory and Harassment Policy

The College will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disabilities, veteran status, or sexual orientation in its educational programs, activities, admissions, or employment practices as required by applicable laws and regulations. For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, or for information regarding services, activities and facilities that are accessible to and useable by persons with disabilities, contact the Office of Human Resources.

Employee Non Discriminatory and Harassment Policy (also found on page 12 of the LC Employee Handbook)

Disability Policy:

The PTA program follows the policy regarding student disabilities as stated on the college web page found at: https://www.lackawanna.edu/current/disability.html and stated below:

Lackawanna College is an equal employment and educational opportunity institution conforming to all applicable legislation which prohibits discrimination. Lackawanna College will provide reasonable accommodation for any qualified student with known disabilities provided the accommodation does not pose an undue hardship on the College. Some examples of accommodations provided by the College are the following:

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Extended time on exams

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College without the written consent of the student and following FERPA and or HIPPA regulations. A health record release form must be completed by the student prior to the start of clinical affiliations. Clinical facilities require the student’s health records.

Taped versions of exams Exams in alternate forms Exams in a distraction-free environment Alternative methods of demonstrating mastery of course objectives Allow student to tape when necessary

Students requesting accommodation must begin by submitting documentation to the Admissions Office. Such documentation consists of a report supplied by a certified or licensed professional on the basis of an examination conducted within the last four years. The diagnostic report should include specific recommendations for accommodations as well as an explanation as to why each accommodation is recommended. If the disability is physical, including hearing or vision impairment, or if it has any other medical implications, including psychiatric, the student should so indicate on the College Health Form.

A student seeking accommodations must meet with Mrs. Hartzell in the Department of Academic Development, Suite 110 in Lackawanna's Main Building, at the beginning of each semester. Students are responsible for securing appropriate documentation and notifying the instructor if accommodations are required. A school plan such as an individualized education plan (IEP) is insufficient documentation. Accommodations cannot be made for students who do not provide the necessary documentation. The final determination for providing appropriate and reasonable accommodations rests with the institution.

All services are arranged individually on an as-needed basis. The services may vary from course to course and semester to semester. Therefore, students may not automatically be granted each accommodation requested. Students should schedule an appointment well in advance of the need for services. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 961.7821.

STORAGE, ACCESS, AND RELEASE OF STUDENT RECORDS:

All student records relating directly to the PTA program are kept in a lockable file cabinet in either the PTA Program Director’s office or the ACCE’s office. In addition both offices are locked nightly and only accessible by keys in possession of the PD, ACCE, or Center Director. General student college records are stored in the lockable file cabinets located in the document archive room of the LRC, and which is locked 100% of time and only accessed by use of an archive room key. Access to the archive room is only permitted by LRC administrative staff and program faculty who have a key to this room. Students may inspect their files by a scheduled appointment with the Program Director or the ACCE. They may examine their files with either the Program Director or ACCE present. Students cannot delete, copy, or remove anything from their files. No student records are released from Lackawanna

PHOTO/VIDEO POLICY

Students may be requested to participate with videotaping or photography for the purposes of knowledge or education. Images may also be requested for College publications. Students will not be identified by name, and students will have the right to decline participation in writing. A release form for use of the student’s image will be provided (Form found in Appendix A of handbook) and if the student allows use of their image this form will be signed and kept on record in the PTA student file. Any student may decline use of their image or likeness for any reason, but must notify the PTA program director, ACCE, or other LC administration or staff responsible for taking of such image.

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ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS AND PROGRAM CONTINUATION:

Grade requirements for progression through the PTA program:

The LC PTA program will follow the grading system as set by LC found within the most recent edition of the LC Student Handbook. All students within the PTA program are expected to carry a QPA of 2.5 or greater to be able to progress within the PTA program following the first semester of classes and subsequent semesters. The spring semester (semester 2) would be designated as the beginning of the technical phase of the PTA program. The students will be also required to maintain an overall cumulative QPA of 2.5 or greater throughout the continuum of the “technical portion” of the PTA program. Students also may not continue within the LC PTA program if they receive an individual class grade of less than C+ in any class designated within the technical portion of the program, or a B in their Introduction to PTA class (PTA 105). All PTA courses are to be taken in sequence in consecutive semesters. Humanities, social science and other core institutional courses may be taken prior to entrance into the PTA program or in varying sequences once admitted into the PTA program. Core courses can be taken outside of the set curriculum schedule if approved by the PTA program director or the student’s PTA program core faculty advisor.

Should a student drop below a 2.5 cumulative GPA or does not pass a technical class with the minimal required grades as specified above, a C+ or greater then they will be contacted by the PTA program director to meet and begin discussions regarding a remediation plan, or in being released from the PTA program. If a student disagrees or refuses the remediation plan or the decision of the program director then a meeting with the student will be scheduled and will include the PD, the core faculty member ( responsible for the class they have failed to maintain the C+ in), and the Associate VP of Academic Affairs.

At this point a decision will be made by the faculty and the administration on whether the student will be placed on probation and begin remediation or not be allowed to continue within the technical portion of the program.

If the student is released from the PTA program, the student may continue as a LC student fulfilling other core requirements of their choosing. If they remain in good academic standing, they may petition in writing to re-enter the technical portion of the PTA program in one year with the next student cohort. The student will be required to retake all technical courses within the designated semester that they enter minus any core requirements that may have been fulfilled during their probationary status.

Should the student fall below a 2.5 QPA or achieve a single technical class grade lower than C+ for a second time, the same informative process will occur but the student will be dismissed from the LC PTA program with no chance to re-enter at a later date unless they are accepted into a new student cohort and begin the entire PTA program from the beginning retaking all technical courses. Re-application to the PTA program would not guarantee re-selection into the program.

Skill Proficiency for Competence and Progression into Clinical Assignments:

The PTA program faculty is dedicated to ensuring that each student who is admitted and enters this program is also prepared to move through the curriculum and ultimately into their clinical assignments, both in terms of safety and proficiency of skills. In support of this, the faculty will follow this subsequent plan:

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To accurately assess each student’s level of competency prior to entering the clinical education portion of this program, each student must successfully complete proficiency in certain skills deemed “skill proficiencies”. Students are notified during the initial program orientation meeting of the critical skills and the process for testing of these critical skills along with their mention in the PTA Program Handbook. Students are provided with information and reminded of the critical skill proficiencies at several other points throughout the program including during clinical assignment orientations, individual class orientation, and within open lab sessions. This will ensure that students understand the requirements and expectations necessary to proceed in the program, specifically into the clinical education component. Also, each student will receive a statement regarding the critical skills along with a listing of the required skills within and pertaining to each individual course syllabus

Within each course syllabus, any skill proficiencies pertinent to that course are identified. The skills are embedded into the classes and taught in a progression appropriate for the level of skill needed prior to entry into either the first clinical education assignment or the 2nd and 3rd assignment. These skills are then separately and more expansively explained on individualized scoring rubric sheets. First year critical skills are outlined on individual skill sheets and distributed during the first semester. Second year critical skills span both manual skill sets and critical thinking skill sets and are embedded within written and practical testing. If provided within practical testing situation, the rubric is provided. The critical skill sheets are provided to the students via hardcopy for each course. The skill proficiency rubrics define each skill, the components needed for proper completion of the skill, the proficiency level needed to be obtained with this skill, and areas for check off and signature by a faculty member or qualified lab assistant confirming proficient completion of the skill. The student will be required to complete each skill at the set proficiency level twice. The students first check off for a particular skill may be performed in a "peer check-off" situation. The final check off must be assessed by a core faculty, adjunct faculty member or qualified lab assistant.

The proficiency level set for skill achievement advances over the two years. First year students are required to achieve 75% skill proficiency with critical portions of the skill, as identified on the rubric, met. Therefore, it is possible for a student to demonstrate greater than 75% proficiency with a skill, but not “pass” the skill due to poor performance on a critical portion of the skill. Second year students are required to achieve 80% skill proficiency with any critical thinking or manual critical skill designated within specific coursework. Each skill has a semester deadline by which it must be completed. These deadlines correspond with either the end of the second semester or end of the fourth semester.

Demonstration of these skills may be completed during formal lab practical examinations, during appropriate times set aside in lab sessions for skill performance, during written examination embedded within a particular critical thinking patient related question, or at the discretion of the faculty member, which may include spontaneous requests to perform the skill. Students who are unable to pass the skill at the set proficiency level will not be permitted to move forward within the program and will initially be set up to begin a remediation process. A remediation plan will be set up by the appropriate faculty member with approval of the Program Director. Further inability to complete the critical safety skills will possibly end in the student’s dismissal from the PTA program.

RETENTION POLICY:

Lackawanna College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program would like to retain every student that is admitted to the program and maintains the desire to become a physical therapist assistant. Faculty and staff are willing to help students succeed and graduate from the program, but the student is ultimately responsible for their education. The PTA program faculty will do the following to help with the retention efforts while maintaining the academic integrity of the program.

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1. Provide oral and written reviews of the examinations as determined appropriate by each course instructor. 2. Answer appropriate questions in lecture and lab, and provide follow up skill demonstration as needed. 3. Be available during office hours and by appointment to answer student questions. 4. Provide class time and personal meeting with faculty for students to review their examinations.

Students may take brief notes regarding incorrect answers while reviewing quizzes and tests, but may not copy the entire document.

5. Meet with students at least once a semester beyond the advising period to discuss student success strategies if requested by either the course instructor or the student.

6. Encourage peer and group study groups, and assist in organizing these groups if requested. 7. Provide a mid-term grade report via a direct meeting with the student’s core faculty advisor.

In order to have a better chance of success in the PTA program, the student is recommended and encouraged to do the following:

1. Attend all classes, labs and clinical assignments (this is required as specified in the course and clinical attendance policies). 2. Perform all written and reading assignments on time. 3. Review class notes regularly and investigate optional ways to study provided information. 4. Participate in class including open discussion, question and answer sessions, and open question times. 5. Make an appointment with the instructor if you have any questions or need clarification. 6. Form or join a study group, or seek out assistance from other classmates to gain insight into other study options. 7. Practice good time management skills. 8. Request tutoring or remediation options as early as possible if you feel you are struggling or being unsuccessful in a course.

*- We cannot help you unless you first are willing to recognize that you need help and are willing to seek it out.

WITHDRAW POLICY: The PTA faculty wishes to retain all students in the program. If a student wishes to withdraw from the program, a formal meeting with the Program Director must occur. During this meeting a discussion will take place to assist the student in the decision making process. If the student wishes to continue to withdraw from the program, a formal written request is made by the student and placed in the student’s file. The Program Director will assist the student with any paperwork mandated from the registrar’s office.

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Physical Therapist Assistant Program Associate in Science Degree

The Mission of the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Lackawanna College is to facilitate the preparation of individuals regardless of their socio-economic status, past achievements, gender, national origin, age, race, color or creed, as entry level, associate of science degree earning, physical therapist assistants. These individuals will be compassionate and caring lifelong learners who will provide evidence based ethical treatment to assist the physical therapist in the rehabilitation of all individuals in their care. The program will strive to provide students with a diverse educational setting allowing for academic excellence, and to become socially, culturally, and professionally well rounded clinicians and individuals.

The program is a 2 year (5 semesters) program that combines both classroom and clinical field experiences in preparation for the student to enter this profession as an entry level skilled PTA. The student will graduate with an Associate of Science Degree and be eligible to sit for the national licensure exam once notification of accreditation of the PTA program is received. A student considering entering the field of PTA should have a demonstrated aptitude for the sciences, interact well with others, have an interest in working with physically challenged, ill or injured people, and enjoy a physically active job.

First Semester (17 credits) Second Semester (18 credits) ENG 105 College Writing * (3cr) PTA 110 Functional Kinesiology** (3cr) CIS 105 Introduction to Computer Applications (3cr.) COM 125 Effective Speaking (3cr) PTA 105 Introduction to PTA** (3cr) PTA 245 Anatomy and Physiology 2** (4cr) BIO 205 Anatomy and Physiology 1 (4cr) PTA 130 Organization & Administration**(2cr) HTH 100 Medical Terminology (1cr) PTA 125 Therapeutic Modalities**(3cr) PHL 110 Medical Ethics (3cr) PTA 135 Ortho Rehab & Basic Skills** (3cr)

Summer / Third Semester (6 credits) PTA 200 Clinical Field Experience 1 (3cr) MAT 120 College Algebra * (3cr)

Fourth Semester (16 credits) Fifth Semester (12 credits) PTA 210 Therapeutic Exercise** (4cr) PTA 230 Clinical Field Experience 2 (5cr) PTA 220 Methodology & Evidence Based Practice** (3cr) PTA 240 Clinical Field Experience 3 (5cr) PTA 225 Neurological Rehab and Advanced Skills** (3cr) PTA 250 PTA Seminar (2cr) PSY 105 Introduction to Psychology (3cr) PTA 215 Health Care Issues and Special Topics** (3cr) SEM 100 Senior Seminar Attendance (0 cr.)

TOTAL Credits = 69 credits

*Developmental courses may be required as prerequisites. Credits earned in developmental courses cannot be applied toward graduation.

** Program’s “Technical Phase” classes that cannot be taken outside of the LC PTA program.

College 101 will be required for applicable PTA students starting Fall of 2013

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PTA PROGRAM GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:

Graduation requirements consist of: Successful completion of all on-campus courses with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5. Successful completion of the clinical experiences with a 100% of clinical hours completed An overall on-campus attendance with less than 3 unexcused absences Current financial and administrative obligations to Lackawanna College and completion of required institutional exit interviews.

Students must make formal application for graduation on the forms provided by the institution prior to the date stipulated on the College calendar. PTA students are encouraged to attend the graduation ceremony.

ADD IN POLICY ON TIME TO GRADUTE BEYOND EXPECTED DATE

LC GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:

Applying for Graduation:

All students are required as per LC student policy to apply for graduation. To be eligible to apply, the student must fulfill all graduation requirements as set forth by Lackawanna College and specifically the PTA program. See below for LC graduation requirements or (Please refer page17 beginning with the last paragraph and continuing onto page 18 of the LC student handbook for specific graduation requirements).

Once your application for graduation is documented in the registrar’s office you will receive a graduation information booklet. However, if you have not already submitted your application, contact the Registrar’s Office immediately. Application for graduation is only the beginning in a number of processes leading to Commencement.

STUDENT CREDENTIAL PORTFOLIO POLICY:

All students must submit evidence of having an approved student credential portfolio when they apply for graduation. This collection of student-learning documentation is a requirement for graduation and will include a graded research paper, graded major specific assignments, a career exploration, a current resume, letters of recommendation and a Lackawanna College reflection paper. Developing a credential portfolio is in itself a powerful learning activity since it encourages students to assume responsibility for their ultimate success, develop self-management skills, take pride in their work, participate in mentor relationships and heighten awareness of their personal and career growth. The student portfolio will also serve as a useful tool in securing employment.

Additional information regarding portfolio development is made available to students in selected first semester courses. Portfolio requirements are also reviewed in depth during the Senior Seminar.

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Portfolio recommendations for specific courses are listed on the back of each curriculum sheet. Students should schedule a meeting with the Portfolio Manager at least once during the semester to review portfolio development.

SENIOR SEMINAR:

All students meeting graduation requirements must attend a senior seminar prior to submission of portfolio/graduation materials. This seminar has been designed to identify students’ responsibilities concerning financial obligations and portfolio and academic requirements. Attendance is recommended during a student’s third semester and is mandatory prior to a student’s submission of his/her graduation application.

Numerous seminars will be conveniently scheduled throughout the academic year. Further information concerning the senior seminar is available from the Portfolio Manager.

GRADUATION:

All students meeting graduation requirements (including approved student credential portfolio) for the December 2012 or May 2013 graduation class must complete an application for graduation and submit it to the Registrar's Office according to the following deadlines:

Spring 2013 completers – no later than Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Any applications submitted after this date will be subject to a $150.00 application processing fee. The College is not responsible for those students who fail to apply by the deadline since graduation orders must be placed well in advance. Students who meet requirements but do not apply for graduation will not be listed in the graduation roster nor will completion of degree be indicated on the student transcript. No diploma will be ordered for students who do not apply for graduation. Students who are short of curriculum requirements by more than three credits will not participate in commencement.

Student Accounts All account balances, including the late graduation application processing fee (if applicable), must be settled prior to graduation. Please contact the Business Office at 570-961-7834 with any questions.

Unfulfilled requirements:

Candidates for graduation who learn there is a problem with fulfillment of their graduation requirements must contact the Registrar’s Office as soon as possible at 570-961-7816 to discuss options.

Commencement Packet: Commencement Attire Each graduation candidate will receive a commencement packet that includes his/her commencement attire. Commencement attire, including robe with cap and tassel, is required without exception. There is no cost for your graduation attire. Please remember that Commencement is a formal academic event, and attire under your robe should be appropriate. Please wear shoes that will enable you to navigate steps and the stage safely and comfortably. You may wish to use hair pins to secure your cap. Plan to leave any personal items with your guests as there is no secure storage area.

In Absentia Graduates

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If you are not planning to attend the Commencement Ceremony, you must write a letter or email the Academic Affairs Office (gallagherm@lackawanna.edu) requesting permission to graduate in absentia. Please contact the Academic Affairs Office at 570-961-7849 for more information.

Commencement Checklist:

□ Did you submit an application for graduation to the Registrar’s Office? □ Did you notify the Academic Affairs Office by email or in writing if you do not plan to attend the Commencement Ceremony? □ Did you clear your account balances with the Business Office? □ Did you complete the Graduation & Alumni Questionnaire? (A link to this online survey was sent to your Falcons email account upon completion of your application for graduation.) □ Did you complete your financial aid exit interview? □ Did you pick up your Commencement packet (academic attire), from the Bookstore (Scranton campus graduates) or the main office of your Center (Hazleton, Lake Region, New Milford or Towanda graduates)? □ Did you R.S.V.P. for Awards Night or any banquets you may have been invited to? □ Did you make your reservations for the Class of 2012 Graduation Breakfast? □ Did you make plans to be a part of the 2012 Class Photo?

GRADUATION FOLLOW-UP:

The PTA Program would like to keep track of its alumni. We are required to gather data on our graduates, so it is important that we keep in touch. Your feedback is also very valuable to us in formulating future changes in the curriculum and advancement in the profession! Please respond to the surveys when sent to you. Also inform us of name changes, change in address and place of employment.

LC Alumni Association Statement:

As a graduate of Lackawanna College, you are now officially a member of the LC Alumni Association. Your hard work and dedication have earned you a college diploma, and the Alumni Association is proud of your accomplishments and growth along the way. Having traveled the same path we know the tenacity and commitment it took to complete your goal. As a member of the Lackawanna College Alumni Association, you will have the opportunity to attend a variety of programs and events we offer. Please check out the Alumni & Friends web page for College news and LC Alumni Association information. You can also visit us on Linked-In or Facebook. Here you will find information on your local Alumni Chapter, upcoming events, homecoming, reunions, etc.

We welcome you to stay in touch with Lackawanna College and share exciting news with us! I can be personal news, whether it is a promotion, marriage, graduation from another college or university or other significant event. The Alumni office can be reached at (570) 961-7895, or alumni@lackawanna.edu.

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STATE BOARD REQUIREMENTS:

Upon having met all graduation requirements and having formally graduated, students of an accredited PTA program are eligible to sit for the PTA Licensure Exam. Information regarding applying for this exam will be provided by the LC PTA program. However it will be the student’s responsibility to attend to all application materials, schedule the site of the examination, and have reliable transportation to show up to the set examination site on time. Failure to apply by the needed date and time may result in the student being delayed from taking the exam and thus could endanger their chances of obtaining employment in a timely manner. Information regarding the state licensing exam can be found on the web page for the Federation of State Board of Physical Therapy and specifically the PA State Board of Physical Therapy at www.fsbpt.org Students will need to visit this web site prior to graduation to procure the necessary paperwork to take the exam. The PTA licensure exam starting in 2012 will only be given on 4 dates throughout the year. For further information regarding qualification to take the exam and application for the exam, refer to the exam candidate packet provided on the state board web site.

GREVIENCE POLICIES:

LC STUDENT GRIEVANCE POLICY/PROCEDURE:

Lackawanna College has established a process for students to register complaints and share concerns and questions with appropriate College officials. The Student Affairs staff can advise students about the appropriate procedures to follow in resolving a general complaint or concern. Within three working days, the staff member to whom the complaint or concern is brought will respond to the student making the grievance. Each case will be handled individually and solutions can include, but are not limited to, solving the problem through informal channels up to and including filing formal charges. Discrimination: Matters concerning alleged discrimination, especially in regard to race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, age or handicap, should be brought to the immediate attention of the College's Affirmative Action Officers, Gene Biadas and/or Dr. Gail Scaramuzzo.

Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is unwanted sexual or gender-based behavior that creates an environment that would reasonably be perceived, and is perceived by the victim, as hostile or abusive. It is the policy of Lackawanna College that sexual harassment is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Students are encouraged to bring questions about sexual harassment to the attention of the Affirmative Action Officers, Gene Baidas and/or Dr. Gail Scaramuzzo.

Resolution of Student Complaints: The student should direct concerns to the staff member responsible for the area of concern. Students in doubt as to the appropriate staff member should seek the advice of a counselor or staff member. Depending on the nature of the concern, students can resolve problems by following the successive levels of review as indicated below. Students not satisfied with results at one level should go on to the next level. If a situation concerns alleged discrimination where steps other than the normal level-to-level ones are required, department heads/directors will be contacted immediately by an Affirmative Action Officer.

STEPS FOR RESOLVING STUDENT COMPLAINTS:

Concerns about teaching faculty:

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Student meets with the faculty member if feasible. If not satisfied, student meets with the Program Director or appropriate Division Chairperson. If not satisfied, student meets with the Associate VP of Academic Affairs. If still not satisfied, the student meets with the Academic Vice President. Finally, if still not satisfied, student meets with the President of the College* whose decision is considered definitive.

If the issue involves complaints against the Program Director or warrants intervention from an institutional representative, the Program Director involves the Associate VP of Academic Affairs. The Executive Vice President/Chief Academic Officer will be apprised of the situation and brought in for assistance if needed to resolve the complaint.

Concerns in other non-teaching areas:

Student meets with the staff member if feasible. If not satisfied, student meets with the staff member's supervisor. If still not satisfied student meets with the supervisor's Department Head/Director. If still not satisfied, student meets with the President of the College*.

* Final level of review. Should the Lackawanna President be absent/unavailable, the Executive Vice President will serve in this capacity.

COMPLAINTS FROM WITHIN THE PTA PROGRAM OR COMPLAINTS RELATING TO THE PTA PROGRAM FROM OUTSIDE THE COLLEGE:

At any given time there is the possibility that a complaint in relation to the PTA program, one or more PTA program faculty, or one or more PTA program students could be received. Any written or signed complaint about any Physical Therapist Assistant student, a graduate of the program, the program faculty, or a complaint about the program itself will be handled in the following manner:

Any such complaint received in relation to any aspect of the LC PTA program may either come in the form of a phone call, and or written complaint. However for a complaint to proceed based the following policy, the individual or individuals that make the complaint must identify themselves and provide contact information of a current up to date phone number and physical address of occupancy. No anonymous complaints will be documented or processed forward. It should be known also that if providing a complaint you will be identified to the individual for whom the complaint is directed against. If this information is provided the following will occur:

The formal complaint that is received will be initially directed to the PTA program director. The person who receives the complaint via phone, letter, in person or by electronic mail will forward the complaint to the PTA Program Director within 2 business days, unless the complaint is against the Program Director him or herself. Immediately upon review of the complaint, the PTA Program Director will document the following in writing: the name and contact information of the individual or individuals making the complaint, a description of the complaint, who or whom the complaint pertains to, whether or not the complaint has been addressed, and any resolution that has taken place to date. The complaint will be documented on the PTA Program Grievance form (found in Appendix D of this manual) and within the PTA Program director’s office. Once the complaint has been documented a copy of the PTA Program Complaint form will be forwarded to the current Associate VP for Academic Affairs. The PTA program director will also notify the Associate VP for Academic Affairs within 4 business days of the initial complaint through either a phone call or via email to discuss the complaint and decide on a course of action based on the nature and severity of the complaint. The Program Director or the Associate VP

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for Curriculum may request the involvement of the Executive Vice President/Chief Academic Officer if either deems necessary. Within 7 business days of the initial complaint, the Program Director and Associate Dean for Curriculum will review the complaint, create a plan to address the complaint, and document all discussions and plans. The documentation for any complaints made about the PTA program, students, or faculty will be kept on file in the PTA Program Director’s office, except in cases where the complaints are made against the PTA Program Director.

Complaints against the PTA Program Director: If a complaint is made against the Program Director, the person receiving the information will go through the same procedure as stated above but will convey the information directly to the PTA program ACCE who will document the complaint and will then forward this documented information directly to the Associate VP for Academic affairs, who will involve the Executive Vice President/Chief Academic Officer again if deemed necessary. The process as described will be initiated without the involvement of the Program Director. Should the complaint pertain to the PD and ACCE together then all information would be forwarded to the Associate VP of Academic Affairs. Documentation of complaints against the Program Director will be kept in the Program Director’s file in the Human Resources Office or within the office of the Associate VP for Academic Affairs.

Affirmative Action Complaints: Complaints regarding affirmative action allegations will be directly forwarded to one of the College’s two Affirmative Action Officers, who are identified in the LC Student Handbook, the College website, and the Employee Handbook. Allegations will be handled in accordance with the College’s Affirmative Action Policy.

Complaints against graduates of the PTA program It is the policy of the Lackawanna College PTA program that once a student has met all requirements for and has graduated from this educational program, and they have also been properly licensed by the appropriate licensing body in the state that they will work and reside in, that the alumni is solely responsible for their professional demeanor and actions relating to patient care within their practice environment. The LC PTA program therefore will undertake no liability if a complaint regarding a graduate of this program is received. The PD will document the complaint and keep it on file, but no further action regarding such complaint will be initiated.

STUDENT DISIPLINARY ACTION:

Lackawanna College Student Conduct Policy: Lackawanna College expects students to conduct themselves at all times in a professional manner. The forms of misconduct below are considered to be in conflict with the educational objective of the campus. Students who engage in such misconduct are subject to up to three class days’ suspension or termination from the program at the sole discretion of Lackawanna College.

o Any type of dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, knowingly furnishing false information to Lackawanna College, forgery, alteration or use of intuitional documents or identification with intent to defraud.

o Intentional disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, public meetings and programs, clinical practice or other school activities.

o Physical or verbal abuse of any person on School premises or at functions sponsored or supervised by Lackawanna College.

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o Any harassment based on sex, race, religion or national origin. o Theft or damage to Lackawanna College premises or damage to the property of a member of

Lackawanna College community on Lackawanna premises. Students will be charged for the repair or replacement of any equipment lost or damaged through negligence or willful mischief. This includes damage to any part of the building or its immediate surroundings.

o Possession of guns or knives or other weapons on Lackawanna College or clinical affiliation premises.

o Failure to comply with directions of institutional officials acting in their performance of their duties.

o Violation of the law on School premises or at clinical affiliations, in a way that affects Lackawanna College community’s pursuit of its proper educational objectives This includes, but is not limited to, use of alcoholic beverages and/or controlled or dangerous substances.

o Any behavior which would not be considered generally acceptable by an employer of one of his/her employees.

o Violation of employee conduct and clinical affiliation policies at the affiliated site. o Any other behavior which Lackawanna College, at its sole discretion, determines to be

inconsistent with the intent of this section or the interest of Lackawanna College of its other students.

The students within the LC PTA program are expected to adhere to the highest standards of academic excellence as well as being good representatives of the community, the College, and the profession for which you are preparing to enter. Should a PTA student require disciplinary action in relation to poor academic performance, ethical or moral conduct, or any other actions deemed to have violated rules and policy as set forth in this or the PTA clinical handbook, then the student would be subject to disciplinary actions as stated in the LC student handbook, which the PTA program recognizes as the accepted course of disciplinary action.

All LC PTA program students should refer to the LC Student Code of Conduct in the most recent version of the LC Student Handbook. There may be instances that arise either academically or otherwise that require disciplinary action directed toward the student either from the PTA program and/or LC. Disciplinary action is based on the seriousness of the offense and the best interests of the College community. The sanction can include one or more of the following:

Warning: Oral or written statement that the student has violated the Student Code of Conduct

and any imposed discipline.

Fines: Fines are penalty fees paid to the College. The amount is dependent upon the degree of policy infraction and is set by the College administration. Fines are not subject to negotiation and can be levied in addition to other sanctions and/or restitution.

Probation: Probation is a sanction that includes a period during which the student must

demonstrate the ability to comply with the College’s rules and regulations, as well as any imposed sanctions. Length of the probationary period can vary from one year to the balance of the student’s tenure at the College, depending on the severity of the offense(s). While on probation, any further violation of College policy may result in dismissal from the College.

Suspension from class: Permanent removal from class, without privilege of withdrawal from

course.

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College Dismissal: Indicates permanent dismissal from Lackawanna College. Student will be withdrawn from all enrolled courses by the College. The student will not be allowed to re-enroll at a future time. In accordance with federal and state regulations, all room and board payments will be forfeited.

Restitution: Restitution is reimbursement to the College for damage, destruction

misappropriation of property on College premises. When imposed, restitution will be made in addition to any previously defined sanctions. Restitution to other students can also be imposed.

Disciplinary Action for Violations of the Code of Conduct in the classroom or during clinical assignments:

Any student deemed to be in non compliance with the standards and expectations of LC or the LC PTA program will be subject to disciplinary action. This includes any violations encountered with the classroom, on clinical assignment or during any representation of the LC and the PTA program as a student. Disciplinary action will follow the policy as set forth within the most recent edition of the LC student handbook. Order of actions from least to most severe are presented below:

Step 1: Verbal Warning - The instructor provides a verbal warning to the student. The warning shall identify the undesirable behavior and describe acceptable behavior.

Step 2: Written Warning - The instructor provides a written warning to the student, with reference to the previous verbal warning. A copy of the correspondence will be sent to the Associate VP of Academic Affairs and the Dean of Students.

Step 3: Request for Dismissal - The instructor provides a written request to the Associate Dean for Curriculum for the student’s dismissal from class. A copy will be sent to the student and the Dean of Student Affairs. The Associate VP of Academic Affairs will respond within three business days.

Step 4: Dismissal - The Associate VP of Academic Affairs may wish to meet with the student and/or the instructor to resolve the problem diplomatically. If dismissal is deemed appropriate, the Dean will notify the student by certified mail or in person (on campus) within three business days. The dismissal will be effective the date the correspondence or announcement is issued. The letter should also include an invitation to the student to appear before the “Student Appeal Committee,” and it should advise the student of the potential effect that a dismissal may have on his/her financial aid. A copy of the letter will be sent to the instructor, President and the Dean of Students.

Step 5: Student Appeal - The student may appeal his/her dismissal before the Student Appeal Committee, which is comprised of the Dean of Students, the Division Chair for the course in question, selected faculty members and an officer of Student Government. The Associate VP of Academic Affairs will serve as chairperson of the Committee but will not participate in the decision of the Committee. The student must appeal the dismissal within 3 business days of being dismissed. The Committee will notify the student of its judgment in writing within three business days. If the Committee upholds the dismissal, the student will be assigned a failing grade and will not be permitted to withdraw. Students who activate the appeal process may present statements, summon witnesses and fully participate in the appeal proceedings, but they may not be assisted by third-party representatives (parents, friends) or legal counsel at any point in the appeal hearing.

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STUDENT EVALUATION AND GRADING:

Student grades will be determined by a variety of factors including but not limited to: objective tests, written individual and group assignments, critical thinking case studies, simulations, laboratory experiences and class participation. Tests will measure the achievement of the course objective with reasonable reliability and validity. The written assignments integrate theory and clinical practice. Class participation encourages reinforcement of information, problem solving, decision making and leadership ability. The clinical performance will be evaluated based on integration of theoretical knowledge and behavioral objectives. The student must demonstrate theoretical knowledge and clinical knowledge to receive a passing grade in a course.

The letter grades used by the College are:

Letter Grade Numeric Range Quality Points A 96 – 100 4.0 A- 90 – 95 3.67 B+ 87 – 89 3.33 B 83 – 86 3.0 B- 80 – 82 2.67 C+ 77 – 79 2.33 C 73 – 76 2.0 C- 70 – 72 1.67 D+ 67 – 69 1.33 D 60 – 66 1.0 F 0 – 59 0

Students are required to take all quizzes, examinations, or clinical proficiencies / class practical exams on the day the test is scheduled for and given in. If emergency conditions should arise and a make-up test is necessary, arrangements must be made with the instructor. Instructors need to be notified PRIOR to the test. See individual syllabi for contact information. If an emergency occurs and a student will not be in class for a period of time, contact the Program Director to make the necessary arrangements for course work, tests and clinical experiences.

PTA Program Test, Quiz and Assignment Return Policy It will be the policy of the PTA program for all course instructors (both full time and adjunct) that any assignments, tests, quizzes or other forms of student assessment will be returned within a reasonable amount of time not to exceed 2 weeks from the time the item was handed in by the students.

ACADEMIC HONESTY AND INTEGRITY:

Students within the Lackawanna College PTA program are expected to hold themselves to the highest academic standards and also the highest level of academic integrity. Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated in the least, and student found to be acting in a dishonest manner (i.e. “Cheating”) will be subject to immediate disciplinary action with. The College’s Student Handbook Academic Honesty Policy states:

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Academic Integrity Policy: Academic dishonesty in any form, such as plagiarism and cheating, will not be tolerated. Sanctions will include an automatic F for plagiarism, but the severity or frequency of the violation may result in dismissal from the College as well. The following are among the forms of dishonesty for which sanctions may be applied:

Using books, notes or other materials during an examination, unless expressly permitted; Using purchased essays, term papers or preparatory research for such papers; Copying others' work or engaging in unauthorized cooperation during an assignment or examination;

Allowing another student to copy from an examination or other assignment intended to be performed independently;

Borrowing from published works, whether material is taken verbatim or with minor alterations, without proper and/or sufficient acknowledgment; Submitting as one’s own work originally done by someone else; Submitting the same written report in more than one course without prior approval from the instructor(s) involved; Stealing examinations or assignments; Supplying or selling examinations or assignments; Misrepresenting statements concerning work submitted; Falsifying or fabricating experimental data or results; Falsifying or fabricating the need for extensions on papers or makeup examinations.

The purpose of the Academic Integrity Policy is to insure that faculty oversees the application of sanctions resulting from academic dishonesty, which both students and faculty members are aware of their rights and responsibilities as they relate to academic integrity and that due process is provided to all parties. The primary responsibility for maintaining personal integrity and honor in academic activities rests with the student. Lackawanna College’s faculty members have agreed to proceed in a uniform manner whenever they detect violations of academic integrity. Therefore, regardless of the form these violations take (see list above), and regardless of the class, location, or instructor, an offending student (or students) will incur the same penalty: permanent dismissal from the classroom and a failing grade (F) for the course. This action will be taken immediately after the violation has been reported and unless reversed through the appeal process (see below); will remain in effect no matter the consequences to one’s financial aid, athletic eligibility or overall academic standing. Repeated violations of the Academic Integrity Policy may result in dismissal of the student from the College. Upon a second violation, consultation with appropriate faculty representative(s) will automatically occur. In all cases, notice to the student is required whenever disciplinary action is contemplated. The student has the right to appeal the action of the faculty member and/or Dean when accused of a violation of the Academic Integrity Policy. The typical process for doing so is outlined in the "Student Dismissal/Appeal Policy." While discussion and general idea-sharing incident to homework assignments is allowed, the actual step- by-step completion of the assignments is the responsibility of each student. Any use of another's work is considered a serious breach of academic honesty and is treated accordingly.

Any PTA student found guilty of academic dishonesty and who is permanently dismissed from a PTA class OR LC core class with the grade of an F would also be subject to dismissal from the PTA program based on not meeting the academics standards set forth earlier in this manual under GPA and course grade requirements. Students dismissed based on academic dishonesty would NOT be eligible for reinstatement or reapplication into the PTA program.

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ClASSROOM / PROGRAM POLICIES:

Classroom and Clinical Demeanor: PTA students are held to a high standard of professional conduct within and outside of the classroom. Students violating normal classroom decorum or disrupting lecture, clinic or lab sessions will be asked to leave for the remainder of the session. Re-admittance will be allowed only upon approval and permission of the PD. Should the severity of the offense dictate intervention by The Dean of Students - Mark Duda and/or the Associate VP of Academic affairs, then the student would need written confirmation by either of these administrators to renter the classroom within the PTA program.

Social Networking Policy:

PTA students should be concerned with any behavior that might reflect badly on themselves, their families, the program, and Lackawanna College. Such behavior includes any activities conducted online and independent of direct classroom, lab, or facility work.

PTA students are not restricted from using any online social networking site and or digital platform. However, users must understand that any content they make public via online social networks or digital platforms is expected to follow acceptable social behaviors and also comply with federal government and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania rules and regulations.

As a PTA student, you are a representative of the College. Keep the following guidelines in mind as you participate on social networking sites:

Before participating in any online community, understand that anything posted online is

available to anyone in the world. Any text or photo placed online is completely out of your control the moment it is placed online – even if you limit access to your site.

You should not post information, photos, or other items online that could reflect negatively on you, your family, the PTA program, PTA affiliated sites, patients, and the institution.

You are to uphold all aspects of HIPPA in relation to your use of social media when it comes to your clinical assignments and patients. Any breach of HIPPA law with social media will result in immediate termination from this program with no chance of remediation or reentry.

It is not recommended that you post your home address, local address, phone number(s), birth date, or other personal information, as well as your whereabouts or your plans. By doing so, you could be opening up yourself or others up to recognition.

Potential employers, internship supervisors, graduate program personnel, and scholarship committees now search these sites to screen candidates and applications.

The malicious use of online social networks, including derogatory language about any member of the Lackawanna and PTA community; demeaning statements about or threats to any third party; incriminating photos or statements depicting hazing, sexual harassment, vandalism, stalking, underage drinking, illegal drug use, or any other inappropriate behavior, will be subject to disciplinary action.

Sanctions for failure to agree and adhere to this policy will result in actions ranging from reprimand or suspension to dismissal from the program.

Classroom use of Cell Phones: While it is understood that there are times it is necessary for an individual to have their cell phone on to be able to be contacted for emergencies or similar situations, the use of cells phones in class should be restricted only to such situations. Therefore students may have

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their cell phones on and placed on their desk top in vibrate or silent mode. Students will be asked to turn their cells phone off immediately if the student is found to be texting, making calls, net browsing, or other for similar and unacceptable use. Likewise the student will not be allowed to video or audio tape the instructor, other classmates, patient simulators, guest lecturers, or patient’s in their care without direct consent verbally or in writing from that individual. Cell phone recordings (or recordings of any type) taken within the classroom, lab, or clinical setting, may not be uploaded to any web site or social media of any type without specific approval of the PD, or ACCE. Students who violate this policy may be suspended or released from the program for violating personal privacy of individuals.

Electronic devices may be used in specific circumstances at the discretion of the instructors in a particular course.

Classroom Attendance:

The students within the PTA program are expected to uphold a higher standard of professionalism and performance compared to other students within the college. Just as an entry level PTA would be expected to be on time and show up for work to attend to the patients within their care, so to should the students within this program be punctual and in attendance to all classes, labs, guest lectures, and clinical assignments. Students are expected to arrive on time for class and to stay until the class is over unless otherwise specifically given permission by the Program Director or other core faculty member. Students arriving late to class or missing class entirely may be penalized in either course work or class grades dependent upon the individual policy of the course instructor and outlined within individual class syllabi.

As a program policy it is expected that the student will not have more than 3 days unexcused absences in combination for any classes during a single semester. Should a student have more than 3 unexcused absences they will be scheduled for a meeting with the program director and the ACCE to discuss their inability to follow program policy and begin a process of remediation which may include but not be limited to: grade reductions, non-graded assignments related to the topic of professionalism, delay in progression into their clinical assignments, or suspension from the program. Following remediation should the student again receive 1 further unexcused absence the process for suspension from the program will be initiated.

Examples of excused absences would be: illness with a physician’s note if out 2 or more days, family emergency, death in a family, illness of a child, or other situations decided upon at the discretion of the PD or ACCE.

Outside Work Policy:

Prior to entering the PTA Program at Lackawanna College, the expectations of the program with regard to commitment are clearly outlined and reviewed. The PTA program is an academically rigorous program that requires a significant commitment of time. While we realize that students have financial obligations that require them to work while in school, we discourage students from working on a full time basis. Furthermore, outside work obligations may NOT be used as an excuse to limit participation in required components of the program. This applies to but is not limited to attendance in classroom, lab, guest lectures, field trips, and clinical situations. See the Program Director if you have any direct questions or concerns.

Use of PTA Skills Lab and Equipment:

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The PTA skills lab is a representation of similar clinical environments that all PTA students will eventually work within. The expectations of the program faculty are that students will maintain a high level of professionalism and safety while working within the lab environment. Students should be conscious of the safety of their fellow class mates also while working with any equipment within the lab. “Horseplay” will not be tolerated at all, and students may be requested to leave the lab should the instructor deem it necessary based on the students actions within the lab. During active lab time with the course instructor present the student may participate in and practice the use of any equipment including electrical modalities if they have been instructed in the proper use and functioning of the equipment. If the student is working independently during open skills lab times, and an instructor is not directly present, then the student is restricted to use of non electrical equipment with the exception of the electric parallel bars, and high low tables.

Upkeep and Inspection of PTA equipment:

It is the responsibility of the Program Director to ensure the proper upkeep, and functioning of all equipment associated with the program. The program director will keep a list of any equipment not functioning properly and ensure this equipment is not used by anyone until such time that it has been repaired and inspected. An appointment will be set up by the program director to have all electronic equipment inspected on a yearly basis, and with the list of this equipment along with the date inspected kept in the program director’s office. Should any equipment be found to be not functioning properly or found to be damaged, it should be reported immediately to the program director. If he/she is not available then it should be reported to the course instructor who will ensure that the equipment is not used by students, and will report this as soon as possible to the program director.

Additional Programmatic Requirements:

As stated previously within this handbook, prior to progression into the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd clinical rotation, all students must complete and be found proficient in all clinical skills indentified by the PTA program. Each student will be provided with a list of 1st or 2nd year student skills which will outline for the student the necessary skills and skill components that must be performed with proficiency. Identified within each skill set will be critical safety components that if not completed properly and with a proficient level of skill, the student will immediately fail that skills set. A level of proficiency will be set within each manual dependent on the students status as a first or second year student, with second year students needing to achieve a higher level of proficiency based on the increased difficulty of course content they have mastered. The student will have to be signed off by a faculty member twice for that skill to be deemed complete. 1st year students will have to complete the entire first year skills manual prior to entry into the 1st 4 week summer clinical. Second year students must complete the second year manual in its entirety prior to entry into their 2 – 6 week clinical rotations in their final semester. Students that are unable to meet these requirements will not be allowed to progress forward within the program and may be released from the PTA program if the required level of skill and proficiency cannot be obtained. All skills will also be identified within the skills manual by the class code for the individual class syllabi where these skills will be listed under the course objectives for psychomotor skills.

Student Health Insurance: The PTA Program requires students to present evidence of current health insurance prior to their progression into Clinical Education I. This requirement is necessary in order to maintain compliance with the clinical agreements established with many of the clinical facilities associated with the clinical education component of our program.

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Evidence of current health insurance, via a copy of the front and back of the health insurance card, must be presented to the ACCE. It will be maintained within the student’s file. Students are required to notify the ACCE if their health insurance coverage changes and present appropriate documentation of same.

Failure of the student to obtain and/or present valid health insurance verification may delay the student’s progression into a scheduled clinical rotation. Subsequently, this may then delay their ability to graduate as scheduled.

Student Health Policy

Students are required annually, at the beginning of each Fall semester, to provide written confirmation from their primary care physician, that they are “in good health, free from communicable diseases and able to participate in training within physically demanding health care settings”. The PTA program provides a Physician Clearance Form for this purpose. No student shall be permitted to participate within clinical experiences without presentation of this signed acknowledgement.

In the event a student’s medical status changes in a manner that would affect their ability to safely and effectively participate with the required clinical training within the PTA program, the student is required to notify the Program Director or ACCE immediately. Examples of such changes in medical status may include but are not limited to back or neck injury, surgery with movement or lifting restrictions and pregnancy.

Upon notification of a change in a student’s health status, a review will be conducted by the core faculty on a case by case basis to determine the ability of the student to safely and effectively engage in the clinical components of the program. Medical clearance with outlined restrictions or parameters from the managing physician may be required and will be considered in the decision making process of the core faculty. In the event the student is not able to actively participate in scheduled clinical training activities, an appropriate course of action will be determined by the core faculty and if needed approved by the administration.

Insurance:

All PTA students are covered by a liability insurance policy that provides coverage for accidents which occur during school sponsored, supervised curricular and co curricular activities. The College maintains professional liability insurance for each student, a minimum amount of $2,000,000 per claim/$5,000,000 aggregate, covering students for all acts and activities undertaken. A copy of the certificate of insurance may be provided to a clinical facility, 30 days prior to a student entering the facility for a scheduled clinical rotation. The College agrees to notify the clinical facility immediately in the event such insurance is cancelled or terminated, for any reason.

CPR and AED Training:

Prior to the first semester of the PTA program, you are required to have shown proof of a valid infant, child and adult CPR card and AED training. Students will be responsible for yearly renewal of CPR. CPR classes are offered throughout the year and at various locations in the surrounding communities. Students are responsible of obtaining these certifications on their own prior to the first semester. Certification through an online class will not be accepted due to requirements set by our clinical affiliations partnerships. 1st Aid training is not required for entry into the PTA program, but is recommended, and will only enhance your clinical abilities and preparedness.

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Criminal Background Check:

The PTA program requires students to secure State, Federal and Child Abuse clearances on an annual basis. These clearances are the financial responsibility of the PTA student. This requirement is necessary in order to maintain compliance with the clinical agreements established with many of the clinical facilities associated with the clinical education component of our program. Valid background checks must be presented to the ACCE within the first and fourth semesters of coursework. Failure to present these checks may delay the student’s progression into a scheduled clinical rotation. Subsequently, this may then delay their ability to graduate as scheduled.

In the event a background check is presented indicating areas of concern, the ACCE will notify the Program Director. The nature of the issue will be reviewed by the Program Director and ACCE. The determination will be made if further investigation or action is required. If necessary, the Program Director will consult with the administration of the College to determine the course of action needed.

Student Vaccinations:

Prior to beginning the PTA program, students are required to show evidence of vaccinations including Diphtheria/Tetanus, Poliomyelitis, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella, and Hepatitis B In the event the student has not received the Hepatitis B vaccine and does not desire to do so, a waiver must be obtained and maintained within the student’s file held by the ACCE. Furthermore, students are required to receive a two-step PPD on an annual basis. Written confirmation of this is also maintained within the student’s file held by the ACCE.

Drug Testing Policy:

The use of drugs not prescribed for medical reasons is expressly forbidden within the PTA program. Additionally, per our agreements with many of our clinical facilities, it is the responsibility of Lackawanna College PTA student to provide documentation supportive of negative urinalysis drug testing to confirm this standard is maintained.

Beginning in the Spring of 2013, students are required to undergo a 10-panel urinalysis drug screen. This screen must be conducted within 30 days of the start of the semester and must be completed at a designated, program-approved site. The cost of the testing is the responsibility of the PTA student.

Clinical facilities may also have their own drug testing policies and procedures to which the student must submit. Declining to do so will result in loss of the offer to participate in a clinical rotation at the designated facility. Unless specified otherwise, these costs are typically covered by the clinical facility.

Failure to pass the required drug testing may delay the student’s progression into clinical rotations. Subsequently, this too may delay their ability to graduate as scheduled. In the event of a failed drug screen, the student will be referred to the institution’s counseling services. A new drug screen will be required within a specified period of time, dependent upon the results of the failed drug test. Additionally, after failing a required drug screen, the student may be randomly required to agree to unscheduled urinalysis drug screens.

Two failed drug screens will result in disciplinary action which may include but is not limited to expulsion from the PTA program.

Licensure:

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Upon completion of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program a student will be eligible to sit for the Licensure Exam given by the PA Board of Physical Therapy To ensure the public health and safety of all patients, licensure is required for PTA’s to practice physical therapy in the state of PA. The PTA must work under the supervision of a PT and must renew their license annually. The rules and regulations are available from the PA Board of Physical Therapy. It is highly recommended that you obtain a copy and become familiar with the rules and regulations that you must practice under.

http://www.rehablicense.com/licensure.php?profID=8&catID=1&stateID=39.

Students graduating from the PTA program will be eligible to sit for the licensure examination upon graduation and dependent upon LC PTA program accreditation status.

PROGRAM SAFETY:

The LC PTA Program promotes the safety of all individuals involved in the didactic and clinical education portions of the curriculum, through procedures outlined in the Program Hand Book and Clinical Education Handbook. Safety training will be included and emphasized throughout the PTA Program, in skill checks and practical exams, and, in the core PTA classes.

Visitors to campus, students in labs, etc shall be directed to seek medical care within two hours at a major hospital or urgent should and accident or injury require such treatment. Costs of the evaluation and care are the responsibility of the person seeking treatment.

BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS & HIV POLICY: Students must report all incidents including body fluid splashes, needle sticks, and other events that could endanger the health of the student. Such incidents should be reported to either their academic or clinical faculty. Lackawanna College and its PTA Program are not responsible for medical care in result of such injuries. Visitors to campus, students in labs, etc. shall be directed to seek medical care within two hours at a major hospital or Urgent Care facility. Treatment and evaluation costs are the responsibility of the person seeking treatment.

1. Post Exposure Procedure for PTA Students

a. If a student has been exposed to a contaminant parenterally (needle stick or cut) or superficially through a mucous membrane (eye or mouth) they are to follow the following procedure:

b. immediately wash the affected area with the appropriate solution (soap and water, alcohol, water),

c. seek appropriate medical attention through their personal physician (students are responsible for their own medical care). This may include baseline testing for HIV antibody at this time, followed by recommended series of testing. (Physicians may also inquire about the students status in regard to tetanus and hepatitis immunization at this time.)

d. follow institutional (agency) policy regarding determining HIV and hepatitis status of patient, (students are responsible for the cost of any testing)

e. maintain confidentiality of patient, f. seek appropriate counseling regarding risk of infection.

Guidelines for HIV Positive Health Care Providers :

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1. The Center for Disease Control has specific guidelines for health care workers which are revised periodically. They have been incorporated into these policies and are reviewed annually. 2. There shall be no routine serological testing or monitoring of students for Hepatitis B or HIV infection. 3. Barrier or standard blood and body fluid precautions are to be used routinely for all patients. These include:

a. The use of glove(s) when: 1) cleaning rectal and genital areas; 2) carrying soiled linen; 3) bathing patients, if the student has a cut on the hand; 4) suctioning or irrigating even if the orifice does not require sterile technique; 5) there is, at any time, a possibility of spillage of blood or body fluid onto the student's hands, (i.e. accucheck, discontinuing an I.V., I.M.s) regardless of the presence of open lesions; 6) emptying urine drainage bags, suction catheters, colostomy and ileostomy pouches; and 7) providing mouth care.

b. The use of masks, goggles or glasses and/or aprons when there is a possibility of fluids splashing onto the face or body and clothing.

Specific Guidelines for Known HIV - Infected Health Occupation Students:

1. HIV positive health occupations students who do not perform invasive procedures need not be restricted from work/clinical experience unless they have other illnesses or signs and symptoms for which such restrictions would be warranted.

2. HIV positive health occupations students should wear gloves for direct contact with mucous membrane or non-intact skin of patients.

3. HIV positive health occupations students who have exudative lesions or weeping dermatitis should refrain from direct patient care and from handling patient care equipment and utensils.

4. Reasonable accommodations will be made within the curriculum to assist the HIV positive student to meet course/program objectives.

5. The policy of agencies utilized for clinical experience will supersede college policy if they are more stringent.

6. Confidentiality will be maintained whenever possible, with only the appropriate individual(s) being informed of the HIV status of health occupations students.

Provision of Care:

1. Assignments are made in the clinical setting to enhance and/or reinforce student learning. It is the expectation that students will provide care for clients to whom they are assigned. In the event that a student refuses to care for an individual the following will occur:

a. In consultation with the student the faculty member will determine the reason for the refusal. b. If the reason is determined to be valid the student will be reassigned. c. If the reason is not valid the student will be counseled about unethical conduct and "discriminating against a client regarding but not limited to the following: Age, race, sex, economic status or illness of the patient or client." d. If it is determined that the reason for refusal to care for specific individual is as noted above, the student will be counseled to consider his/her future in health care.

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e. The Associate VP for Academic Affairs shall be notified of any such occurrence and may meet with the student along with the faculty member to discuss options, one of which may be withdrawal from the program.

Accident Report:

Should an accident or injury occur while participating within the PTA classroom or lab settings, the incident should be immediately brought to the attention of the attending instructor, faculty member, and/or lab assistant. That individual will then notify the PD or ACCE who will fill out the program incident/injury form found in the appendix D of this handbook, and located within the PD and ACCE’s office. If non-emergency care is needed, the individual will then be either referred to their family physician, local hospital, or urgent care facility. If the injury is deemed to be of an emergent nature then local EMS will be contacted for assistance and if needed transport. Financial obligation for care would be the responsibility of the student and fall under their personal health insurance policy.

Cardiac Events – Should the possibility of a cardiac event happen in the classroom or lab setting involving a student, faculty member, or guest, the faculty member or lab assistant in charge at the time will designate a student to immediately contact 911 and identify the type of emergency, location, and identify who they are. The faculty member or lab assistant will begin to render emergency care or monitor the patient should they be conscious and breathing. A second student will be designated to wait by the main entrance and assist EMS to ensure quick guidance to the PTA suite. A third student will be instructed to retrieve the AED from the front office area and if needed the faculty member or lab assistant will apply the AED based on the individuals' current status. Standard lifesaving procedures will be implemented until such time the AED is made available and/or EMS arrives. As stated previously in this handbook, all students are required to be certified in Adult, Child, and Infant CPR as well as AED training.

Fire or other Emergency – Should a fire or other emergency occur while students, faculty, and/or guests are present in the PTA classroom or lab, standard evacuation procedures will be implemented and all individuals will exit the building using the nearest emergency exit as dictated on the evacuation charts found be the doors in the classroom and lab.

Blood Borne Pathogens - Please see the previous Policy in this handbook relating to exposure to blood or bodily fluids.

Injuries or accidents: Depending on the severity of the injury or accident will dictate the use of standard first aid procedures and/or the contacting of EMS. All incidents will be reported to the PTA Program Director and/or ACCE who will write up an incident report which is to be kept on file in the PD's office

Failure to adhere to safe practice: Students within the PTA program will be continually monitored by faculty and lab assistants for safety, competency, and professional conduct in the practice of and performance of skills. Students will be continually reminded to incorporate safe practice in all labs skills instructed by the faculty or lab

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assistants. Should students not follow safe practices during lab sessions, it will be brought to their attention, and re-instructed by faculty or assistants as necessary. If a student, at any time, shows blatant disregard for safety of a classmate, the patient simulator and/or themselves, the consequences will be determined on an individual basis. Possibilities include but are not limited to: removal from the skills lab situation, failure of the lab practical, failure of the class or affiliation, remediation with possible removal from the program. The PTA program takes safety and professional conduct very seriously and will not tolerate any horseplay or inappropriate behavior in the classroom, lab, or especially in the clinical settings.

Lab Skills:

Students will be instructed to practice only those skills for which they have had prior instruction. Students are expected to come to lab appropriately prepared for each skill/technique to be practiced.

Students should at all times practice safe techniques. Standard precautions should be followed at all times. Students will be instructed in and are expected to use proper/safe body mechanics at all times. Students are responsible for reporting to faculty any equipment problems/maintenance issues such as frayed electrical cords, cracked plugs, broken parts, missing parts, etc.

Students should not participate in use of any electrical equipment that they have not been properly instructed in nor in the absence of an instructor or lab assistant with the exception of the parallel bars and high/low treatment tables.

Off Campus Educational Experiences:

Any off campus educational experiences non-clinical in nature will have an "Informal Agreement" instituted between the PTA program and the site hosting the educational experience or "field trip" This agreement will be read over and signed by both participating parties. The PTA program faculty member responsible for the educational experience will verbally inform the host site of their responsibilities and duties as stated on this form and found in Appendix E of the PTA Program Handbook. Once signed and dated this policy will be copied with the original copy being filed in the PD's office and the second copy being provided to the host site

Safety related to offsite educational opportunities non-clinical education related:

Educational experiences included in this policy would be deemed “field trips or off campus non-clinical education” Students are required to attend such events and are responsible for transportation to and from these experiences. Agreements are set up in writing with each site with the site hosting the event being responsible for instruction to the program’s students in all safety policies for that site and emergency procedures deemed appropriate while the students are in attendance. Should an emergency occur while students are in attendance that the staff on site would assist the program in initiating and following through with said policy/procedures. An example of an executed agreement (found in appendices D of this handbook) In the event of inclement weather, students would follow the LC College weather procedures, and the off campus experience would be rescheduled for a later date if the facility hosting is capable of offering an optional date/time.

CLINICAL EDUCATION:

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**This section of the handbook will serve to give a general overview of policies, procedures, expectations, and other information relating to the clinical component of the LC PTA Program. For a full explanation of these areas please refer to the LC PTA Program Clinical Education Manual

Student Financial Obligations for Clinical Expenses:

Clinical education is an educational component of the PTA Program at Lackawanna College. The three clinical rotations scheduled within the program carry the following credit values: Clinical Education I: 3 credits; Clinical Education II: 5 credits; Clinical Education III: 5 credits. Students are wholly responsible for the financial requirement of these credits, just as they are for any other credit bearing course. Students should be aware of total credit loads for each of these semesters and plan appropriately for the cost and presence and/or absence of financial aid.

Additionally, students are financially responsible for all expenses related to clinical assignments including but not limited to: travel expenses to and from the assigned clinical site, expenses related to wardrobe to meet dress code standards of the program or clinical site, expenses resulting from the loss and replacement of a program provided nametag should a loss occur, other misc. equipment or materials required by clinical sites to meet the assignment needs.

PTA Clinical Program Abilities

The following is a partial list of abilities for PTA students. The PTA program is rigorous and adequate stress management, planning and dedication is needed in the program.

Physical and mental proficiency Adequate vision (with corrected lens if necessary to read medications, labels and patient charts) Hearing (with assistive devices if necessary) Speech, to be understood by all persons across the lifespan Sense of touch Manual dexterity Strength to push, pull or lift greater than 30 pounds Ability to lift, carry, push, pull and stoop. Ability to kneel and crawl Ability to reach above shoulder level Ability to organize, and effectively manage time and meet deadlines Ability to stand and walk for a long period of time Ability to perform accurate and legible work Ability to response to increasing pressure, emergencies and workloads Ability to set priorities Ability to apply hospital policies and procedures Ability to communicate effectively and understandably with all healthcare providers and consumers using both verbal and non verbal skills Ability to use a computer system Ability to deal with a variety of days and hours, changing shifts.

Risk for Healthcare Providers:

While performing the essential functions of a PTA, depending on the assigned area, potential risks include but are not limited to the following:

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Confined to small spaces Slippery surfaces Radiation Extreme heat Biological hazards Operating machinery Latex allergies Exposure to blood, body fluids, and infectious diseases

PROFESSIONALISM AND CLINICAL CONDUCT

Clinical Affiliations

Clinical Affiliations are an integral part of the PTA student’s education. The clinical affiliations are designed to provide the student with opportunities to practice skills and competencies acquired during the didactic portion of education. These are hands-on, direct patient care; experiences will occur in a variety of physical therapy settings under the supervision of a physical therapist. These clinical affiliations are mandatory and must be completed during the scheduled time. Personal arrangements for such things as: work schedule, transportations, child care, appropriate dress, etc. are the sole responsibility of the student. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from all clinical affiliation sites. Students will be responsible for travel expenses and may be asked to travel up to 60 miles to their clinical affiliation.

Professional Behaviors:

The Lackawanna College PTA Student is expected to conduct him/herself in a professional manner at all times while representing the school. The following standards of professionalism are considered mandatory for all PTA students:

Preparation (for both lectures and clinical) Effective communication (both verbal and non-verbal) Enthusiasm/positive attitude Effective team work/cooperation Accepts and benefits from constructive criticism Recognition of the impact of one’s behavior on others, especially patients; modification of inappropriate behavior

Accountability/legal and ethical responsibilities Respectful and courteous at all times.

Additionally, the American Physical Therapy Association outlines “Standards of Ethical Conduct for the PTA”. It is the expectation of Lackawanna College’s PTA Program that these standards be promoted and upheld by both the students and PTA faculty. A copy of this document is included previously on pages 21-22 of this handbook.

Clinical Training Policies:

Clinical experiences are designed to be instructional in nature by providing students with hands on experiences. Clinical training is a cooperative effort among Lackawanna College, the student and the

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clinical site. Students may not take the place of paid staff, and may not be paid for their clinical hours. Lackawanna College maintains professional malpractice insurance on all students and faculty while at clinical sites.

The student is a guest at the clinical facility. The clinical site’s expects that the student will obey all rules and regulations regarding the clinical site and clinical assignment. The clinical site has the right to remove students who demonstrates disregard for program and or clinical site policies and procedures.

Patient Safety and Confidentiality Statement:

Students are expected to treat all information regarding patients as confidential, and follow all standards set by HIPPA. Copies of medical records for case study presentation may only be made if the clinical supervisor and patient provide consent. Original patient records are never removed from the facility. All references to patient identity must be removed from all copies of records prior to use in case studies. The patient’s rights to a safe and accurate examination are more important than a student’s need to practice skills. Students must use good professional judgment regarding whether or not to engage a patient.

Dress Code/Professionalism for Lab and Clinical Education:

The PTA program endorses a dress code that is required for students any time they are at the Lake Region Center for educational purposes, or anytime they are representing Lackawanna College at a clinical location. This includes scheduled classroom, laboratory or clinical activities. It also includes any tutoring sessions, refresher courses, practice time in the lab regardless of the day of the week. The student must adhere to this dress code while in any professional situation representing the LC PTA program.

The Dress Code provides for an effective learning environment and promotes the safety of students and their patients or lab partners. Students are required to dress in a professional manner for all class and laboratory sessions. The intention of this code is to promote our students as professionals as they would be expected to present within the work environment. Your dress must not be visually distracting to others, nor disruptive to the educational experience. The following are policy relating to dress and appearance and must be adhered to by the student:

Shorts, tank tops, and/or T-shirt may be required for lab sessions. For designated laboratory sessions (related to the trunk or upper quadrant anatomy) females will be required to wear a tank top, bikini top or similar garment, and males will be required to remove their shirt. This allows for unobstructed access to the spine and related soft tissue during anatomical structure palpation, skills practice, and therapeutic modality application.

Fingernails must be trimmed sufficiently (1/4 inch). Clear or no nail polish is preferred. Colored polish may be worn provided that it is not chipped or worn. Jewelry must be removed. No fake/artificial nails are permissible. This is to allow you to practice techniques for the provision of physical therapy without risking damage to the skin of your lab partner or patients.

Jewelry should be limited to one ring per hand, medical alert bracelets, watches, and small stud earrings.

o Tongue rings are strictly prohibited at any clinical facility. o Any personal piercings must be removed for your personal safety before clinical

observation or rotation. Visual tattoos may be offensive to the patient or clinical site and may be a deterrent to obtaining

clinical sites and/or employment. Therefore, tattoos must be appropriately covered with clothing selections.

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For all clinic-based learning experiences (including the lab sessions conducted off campus) your apparel and grooming must conform to health, sanitation, and safety standards. Students must adhere to any dress code specified by their assigned clinical sites. The complete uniform is to be worn during clinical experiences, and as otherwise directed by the faculty or clinical instructor. In such cases whereby no dress code is specified, the required attire is a polo shirt/pants name pin, watch with second hand, shoes and socks. Shoes must have closed toes and flat heels, and rubber soles are recommended for comfort in the clinic.

The close physical contact that is necessary in the physical therapy lab and clinic requires consistent attention to your personal hygiene. To prevent offending your patients or lab partners please use deodorant, and use moderation with perfume or aftershave.

THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED IN THE CLINIC

1. Jeans (any color) 2. Tee shirts 3. Untucked shirts (unless designed to be left out) 4. Hats, caps and any other unapproved headwear 5. Excessive hair ornamentation 6. Hair must be neat, clean and off the collar with no loose ends that hang forward or impede

patient care. Beards, sideburns, and mustaches must be neat and trimmed. 7. Sleeveless clothing and/or shorts (unless participating in lab activities) 8. Chipped finger nail polish or artificial nails 9. Excessive visible piercings or tattoos 10. Baggy or sagging pants 11. Skirts, skorts 12. Flip flops, open-toed shoes, or high heels 13. Tight fitting, provocative or revealing clothing 14. Bare midriffs, visible cleavage and/or buttocks

The dress code as outlined above is the only acceptable dress code. Do not ask for variations unless you have a documented medical reason for a change in the code. Instructors have the final decision concerning the dress code.

Clinical sites may require additional standards to which students are expected to adhere.

Failure to comply with the dress code may result in dismissal from the lab or class, assigning an unexcused absence, and/or a grade penalty per occurrence.

Patient Interaction/Risk Free Right Policy:

Clinical Educators and PTA students work together to provide the best clinical education possible. Students must introduce themselves as a Lackawanna College PTA intern and seek approval of the patient prior to applying/initiating any treatment plan indicated by the clinical educators. Verbal approval must be witnessed by the clinical instructor. Patients have the right to refuse any treatment provided by a PTA student without risk to the quality of care.

Identification Badges:

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Students are required to identify themselves as a LC PTA student while participating in clinical education experiences. The program will provide an identification badge to each student prior to the start of any clinical rotation. It is the expectation that the badge will be worn and visible at all times, especially during direct patient care. This assists staff, patients, family members and caregivers to identify you as a PTA student. If a clinical facility has additional requirements for student identification, the student is expected to abide by the facility requirements.

In the event the identification is lost or misplaced, the student is expected to contact the ACCE immediately. Arrangements will be made to replace the badge at the expense of the student. Until the replacement is provided, the student is expected to wear their Lackawanna College Student identification badge.

Identification badges are the property of the PTA program. Students are required to return them to the ACCE following the first clinical rotation and then following the third clinical rotation. Students who do not return the ID badge will be required to compensate the PTA program for the cost of the badge.

Clinical Attendance Requirements:

Students will attend clinical education on the days and hours designed by the clinical site and the PTA Clinical Coordinator. Days or times of clinical education cannot be rearranged without the permission of Lackawanna College’s Clinical Coordinator and the clinical site’s supervisor. In the event that the student will be absent from the clinical, the student must call the clinical site and the Clinical Coordinator in advance.

Students are required to attend 100% of required clinical hours. It is the responsibility of the student to provide the Clinical Coordinator a log sheet of completed hours on a monthly basis. If a student has missed any clinical time, arrangements for makeup time must be made with the clinical site supervisor and the Clinical Coordinator.

Performance Standards:

The Clinical Instructor (CI) will continuously assess the student’s performance and Performance Instrument (CPI). Evaluations are conducted at both the midterm and final points of the clinical affiliation. The CPI is monitored and reviewed by the ACCE. Any additional requirements of the student as outlined within the corresponding course syllabus or as required by the clinical site must also be forwarded to the ACCE. These materials may include assignments such as case studies, journals, presentations or other educational materials designed to supplement the clinical experience.

Evaluation of the PTA student involves both formative and summative evaluation. Formative evaluation serves the purpose of providing immediate feedback to the mastery of knowledge, skill execution, integration, application readiness and problem solving abilities. Done correctly, the student will understand “where he/she is right then” regarding clinical proficiency. Formative evaluation is done every day in the classroom and laboratory, but should be also an important part of the clinical experience. The key is to allow the PTA student to be prepared on a subject and then ask them to answer or demonstrate specific aspects. The end product is education at its purest - the acquisition of knowledge. There is no grade to be given, no pressure in terms of official mastery evaluation, just evaluation and feedback. It is important that this be handled positively. The student wants to succeed without embarrassment or fear. All of us remember what it was like to be a student, and using only the Socratic method has the potential to be counterproductive.

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Summative evaluation is used to summarize the PTA student’s achievements. These used to evaluate clinical mastery. The integration of the PTA CPI in the assessment process is an example of summative evaluation.

In many of the clinical aspects you will encounter, the PTA student should have completed the didactic coursework and have supplemented this with laboratory experiences and in some cases observational experiences. Exceptional communication between the student and CI is the best way to identify the didactic coursework that has been covered and to determine the student’s understanding of it. Additionally, clinical instructors may always contact the Program Director and the ACCE to discuss the students’ expected understanding on knowledge, and remediation as might be needed in the clinical application.

Formative and Summative evaluation should be considered within the learning process as follows:

Essential Background Information Primarily Summative Evaluation

PTA Didactic and Lab Courses Formative and Summative Evaluation

Self Evaluation and Peer Evaluation Formative Evaluation

Clinical I Formative and Summative Evaluation

PTA Didactic and Lab Courses Formative and Summative Evaluation

Clinical II, III Formative and Summative

Practice Examinations (clinical skills) Summative

Written Examination Formative and Summative

Clinical Rotation Policy:

The Program Director and the Clinical Coordinator are responsible for placing students at clinical sites. Students may be asked for their preferences, but the decisions of the faculty are final. Students must be prepared to travel to the clinical sites and are responsible for having reliable transportation. Lackawanna College will attempt to assign sites that are within a 60 mile radius to Lackawanna College and that are

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convenient for the students. However, this may not always be possible. Students will be assigned to a variety of PTA environments during their clinical matriculation.

Clinical Assignments:

1. The ACCE is responsible for arranging and managing clinical agreements for the purposes of student placement.

2. Students may NOT arrange their own clinical rotation although they may identify a site of interest to the ACCE.

3. The ACCE will present to the students a list of available clinical sites for a specified clinical rotation.

4. The ACCE will require the students to “rank” their top 5 clinical sites for that rotation and return the list to the ACCE.

5. The ACCE will collaborate with the Program Director and assign students to an appropriate clinical site based upon but not limited to the following:

a. Prior assignment rankings b. Necessity of in-patient vs. outpatient requirement c. ACCE/PD knowledge of clinical site d. ACCE/PD assessment of student abilities e. ACCE/PD assessment of student needs f. Student past performance

6. The ACCE will notify students of their placements. 7. The decisions of the ACCE and Program Director regarding clinical placements are final.

Clinical Assignment Attendance and Schedule:

The PTA student is expected to abide by the days and hours as offered and assigned by the clinical site. Days or times of the clinical affiliation may not be rearranged by the student without written permission by the ACCE and Clinical Instructor. Additionally, the student is expected to maintain flexibility with unforeseen scheduling needs of the Clinical Instructor. In some cases, adjustments of days and hours may be necessary to accommodate the needs of the clinical site and the clinical instructor. In such cases, the student is expected to adjust accordingly.

Travel for Clinical Assignments:

There are several physical therapist (PT) and physical therapist assistant (PTA) programs that exist within our area. All of these programs compete for placements for their students. Therefore, you may be required to travel up to a 60 mile radius, one direction, for a clinical rotation. Any and all expenses related to such travel are the responsibility of the student.

Vacation and Holidays:

1. Students may not take vacation time during the scheduled hours of a clinical affiliation. 2. If your site is going to be closed for a day in observance of a holiday, students may also follow

that schedule. Please notify the ACCE of this event.

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3. In the event your clinical site is open during an observed holiday and your CI is present, you may be required to or given the option to attend your clinical on that date. Please notify the ACCE if this occurs.

4. Within any clinical education setting, TOTAL required hours must be completed. In the event a holiday alters the anticipated schedule, modification to the clinical experience is dictated by the required hours.

Student Concerns:

If you have a concern about the Clinical Educator or the Clinical Site, contact the Clinical Coordinator. The Clinical Coordinator will be overseeing each clinical site, and making clinical observations. If a situation warrants immediate attention, contact the ACCE immediately.

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Appendix A

PHOTO/VIDEO RELEASE

I understand that in the course of my education in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program, there may be occasion for my photograph/video to be taken. I consent to my photograph/video being taken for the purposes of knowledge and education; or in the event the College requests photos for the College Catalog or schedule. I further understand that I will not be identified by name in these photos/videos. I have the right to rescind this release in writing at any time.

Student Name

Student Signature

Date_

Appendix B.

Student to Act as Simulated Patient

I understand that as part of the academic and clinical education to become a PTA (Physical Therapist Assistant) I am required to participate in various lecture and lab classes as a simulated patient. Instructors and other students will have opportunities to demonstrate and practice on me those skills learned in various classes. These skills include, but are not limited to a variety of: mobility exercises, therapeutic exercises, testing and measurements, and physical agents.

I understand that there is some risk of injury resulting from my participation in

these skill training classes. I further understand that the College cannot ensure that other students will properly apply skills learned in class nor can the College be held responsible for any pre-existing conditions or injuries that I may have which make me susceptible to injury.

If I have any pre-existing conditions or injuries that may make me susceptible to

injury from skills training, I will report such conditions or injuries to my instructor, or, if appropriate, to the appropriate Department or personnel.

In the unlikely event that I become injured it must immediately be reported to the

instructors of the class and the appropriate College incident report must be filled out. If necessary, appropriate medical intervention and payment for those services are solely my responsibility.

I have read and understand the above information.

Student Name

Student Signature

Date_

Appendix C Assumption of Risk and Release

Informed consent and release executed by , residing at , Lackawanna College in Scranton, PA.

I wish to be a participant in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program, I understand that the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program will include academic, laboratory and clinical work performed in the classroom, laboratory, hospital, and other clinical facilities and will include direct care or exposure to clients with a variety of illnesses and disease and will include the handling of and/or contact with human bodily fluids and tissues. I therefore understand that I may or will be exposed to disease carrying bacteria and microorganisms and it is my responsibility to use standard precautions to protect myself and others from communicable diseases. I also understand that as a student in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program, I consent to participate in human subject demonstrations and practice in the classroom, laboratory and clinical facilities as part of the educational process. Participation in said activities in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program necessitates the wearing of specific and appropriate clothing. Laboratory clothing for males includes shorts, T-shirt and shoes. Laboratory clothing for females include shorts, halters, T-shirts and shoes. Clinical Clothing includes professional shirts, identification tags, professional slacks and shoes. In participating in Lackawanna College’s Physical Therapist Assistant Program, I, undersign, in full recognition and appreciation of the dangers and hazards inherent in the health care field and in particular in the medical facilities where I may be present during my participation in the program, do hereby agree to assume all of the risks and responsibilities surrounding my participation in this program or any independent activities undertaken as an adjunct thereto; and, further, I do for myself, my heirs, and personal representatives herby agree to defend, hold harmless, indemnify, and release, and forever discharge Lackawanna College and any and all of its Trustees, agents, and employees from and against any and all claims, demands, and actions, or cause of action, on account of damage to personal property, and personal injury, disease, or death which may result to me from my participation in this program and my exposure to the resist inherent in the program. I hereby certify that I have read this document, that I am fully familiar with the contents of this document, and that I fully understand its terms and provisions. Any questions that I have about the Physical Therapist Assistant Program and the contents of this document have been fully explained to my satisfaction. I hereby certify that I am an adult eighteen years of age or older, and I am signing voluntarily and without coercion or pressure to do so.

Student Signature Date_

Print

Program Director

Appendix D

Lackawanna College PTA Program Grievance Form

1) Grievance from Inside of the Program or College Y / N 2) Grievance from Outside of the Program or College Y / N 3) Will the individual identify themselves Y / N

If yes continue to fill out all contact information in item 4 below If no sign form and keep on file in PTA program director’s office with no further action warranted)

4) Contact Information Full Name of individual filing complaint

First MI Last Home and/or Cell Phone Number: (H) (C)

Address:

Email if available:

5) Person or Person’s Complaint is against:

6) Summarization of the complaint (including location, date and time if available

7) Has complaint been resolved Y / N? If yes please detail resolution below, If no and if needed, refer on to the Associate VP for Academic Affairs within 2 days.

Program Directors Signature Date

Appendix E.

Lackawanna College PTA Program

Off Campus Educational Experience Agreement (Non-Clinical)

Date:

Regarding:

Location:

This is an informal agreement between the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at

Lackawanna College and . The staff agrees to provide the Lackawanna College PTA program students with an educational experience on site at their center, that includes both a lecture and/or lab component of an agreed upon _ _hours length and content area. The staff also agrees to instruct the students attending this program with any and all necessary safety policies and procedures specific to this site, as well as general directions to the site along with parking options. Further site policy presented will be presented to or provided beforehand at discretion. Should an emergency occur during these sessions, the staff agrees to assist the faculty and students in direction and carrying out of said policies and procedures. Likewise the Lackawanna College PTA program agrees to instruct the students within this program and who are attending this educational experience, in all appropriate skills, and professional behaviors required of them prior to participation in this educational experience. Also if requested, at least 1 PTA program faculty will be in attendance during the entirety of the educational sessions on site at _. If should choose to change the dates or times of the educational session or cancel this experiences all together, it is understood that they will give at least 24 hours’ notice. It is also requested that if dates or times need to be changed that provide a possible option of rescheduling of the session/s.

Lackawanna College PTA Program Director or ACCE Signature

Date:

Site Representative for Educational Experience

Date: