TABLE OF CONTENTS - Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community

advertisement
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
0
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS ……………………………………………………………….…………1
INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAM…………………………………………...….……………….2
COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT ...…………………………………………………….…….3
ST PROGRAM MISSION STATEMENT ...……………………………………………….……..4
PROGRAM GOALS…………...…………………………………………………………...….. 5-9
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (Diploma and AAS)……………………………… 10-11
AST ASSESSMENT CRITERIA………………………………......…………………….…..12-16
MANDATORY PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS…………………………………….…….........17
SIGNED EXPECTATIONS……………………………………………………………………...18
PROGRAM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ……………………..…..….……………..……..19
CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT …...……………………………………….……. .20-21
INSURANCE ………………………………………………………………………….……..22-23
GRADES …………………………………………………………………………….……...……23
STUDENT APPEAL POLICY ………………………………………………………………......24
JUSTIFICATION………………………………………………………………………………. ..24
ATTENDANCE ........................................................................................................................ 25-26
TARDINESS .................................................................................................................................. 27
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY ………………………………………………………...28-29
PREGNANCY POLICY..…………………………………..…………………………….……30-32
ACADEMIC PROGRESS………………………………………………………………………..33
STUDENT CONFERENCES…………………………………………………………………….34
STUDENT DISCIPLINARY FORMS………………………………………………….…….35-37
TUITION REFUND ....................................................................................................................... 38
STUDENT COURSE WITHDRAWAL ........................................................................................ 38
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE ......................................................................................................... 39
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION ..................................................................................... 39
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................................................. 39
APPENDICIES:
CLINICAL SITE POLICIES…………………………………………….…………………....41-42
CLINICAL PRACTICE MONITORING………………………………………………………...43
CLINICAL WORK POLICY………………………………………………….………………….44
SURGICAL CASE LOG EXPLANATION……………………….………………….……….45-63
CLINICAL CODE OF CONDUCT……………………………………………………………64-65
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS OF THIS JOB……………….…………………66-70
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT……………………………………….……………..71
ADA DISABILITY STATEMENT ...………………….…………………………….………......71
AB-TECH AND OSHA BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS POLICY/TRAINING &
AB-TECH GENERAL INCIDENT REPORT FORM s…………………….………………....72-91
BBP TRAINING DECLARATION……………………………………………………………….92
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE INFORMATION………………….……93-101
TRANSFER READMISSION POLICY…………………………………………………….102-104
1
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
INTRODUCTION TO THE PROGRAM
The Diploma Surgical Technology Program at Asheville-Buncombe
Technical Community College is a three semester program (one year).
Successful completion of the course of study meets the qualifying standards
required to take the National Certification Exam for Surgical Technologists.
These certifying exams are written and administered by the National Board
on Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The primary
mission of the Surgical Technology program is to aid in the maintenance of
quality health care in western North Carolina’s surgical settings by
providing competent and dedicated entry-level surgical technologists to
prospective employers of program graduates.
This handbook is designed as a guide to provide you with necessary
information regarding your classroom, lab and clinical education
experiences. Program policies and procedures will be discussed as well as
technical standards and academic expectations. This handbook should also
be used in conjunction with all other ABTECH-published materials
including the College Catalog and the College Student Activity Handbook.
Those materials are available on the college website.
Please read this handbook as it relates directly to the surgical technology
program. If something listed requires clarification, please ask for further
explanation. The material in this handbook must be reviewed before the
beginning of the Fall Semester. You will be tested on its content. After
review of the handbook, you will be required to sign a program expectations
document, which verifies your understanding and acceptance of the
handbook content.
Welcome to the Surgical Technology Program!
** Accredited by Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
(CAAHEP) 1361 Park Street Clearwater, Florida 33756 email address http://caahep.org
phone number (727) 210-2350 and overseen by the Accreditation Review Council on
Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC-STSA) 6 W. Dry Creek
Circle Suite 110 Littleton, CO 80120 (303) 694-9262 or http://arcstsa.org
2
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
ASHEVILLE-BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
MISSION STATEMENT
A-B Tech, the community’s college, is dedicated to student success. As a
comprehensive community college, A-B Tech is committed to providing
accessible, quality, educational opportunities for lifelong learning to
meet the diverse and changing needs of our community.
3
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
ASHEVILLE-BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY MISSION STATEMENT
 To aid in the maintenance of quality health care in Western North
Carolina’s surgical settings, by providing competent and dedicated
surgical technologists to prospective employers of our graduates
 To accomplish our mission, the program carries out the following
functions:
1.
Provide classroom, intranet, laboratory and clinical training to
students desiring to become surgical technologists in area medical
center hospitals and other surgical facilities.
2.
Maintain and implement the simulated surgical laboratory in which
students demonstrate surgical technologist skills prior to clinical
training.
3.
Maintain the curriculum and outcome objectives according to the
standards and guidelines set by the Accreditation Review Council on
Education Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC-STSA)
and the Surgical Technology Program Advisory Committee (PAC).
These include:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Utilizing appropriate medical terminology
Apply a basic understanding of human physiology and surgical
anatomy in the perioperative role of a surgical technologist
Demonstrate a basic understanding of the concepts of
pharmacology
Demonstrate theoretical and practical proficiency in surgical
aseptic technique, surgical procedures and patient care
Identify and assume appropriate responsibility for patient care.
4.
Provide academic counseling, career counseling, recruitment and job
placement assistance for the program’s students and graduates.
5.
Coordinate and supervise the clinical instruction at all clinical
affiliates.
4
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Program Goals
The intended goals of graduates of the Asheville Buncombe
Technical Community College (ABTCC) Surgical Technology
Program include the following:
1- Graduates of the program will be prepared to be entry level
surgical technologists by using the cognitive, psychomotor, and
affective learning domains.
2- Graduates of the Surgical Technology program will meet or exceed
the didactic and technical competencies of the program and pass the
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam administered by the
National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting
(NBSTSA) at a rate to meet (70%) or exceed program outcome
thresholds as established by ARC-STSA.
3- Students enrolled in the Surgical Technology program will
graduate at a rate to meet (70%) or exceed program outcome
thresholds as established by the ARC-STSA.
4- Graduates of the Surgical Technology program will be
successfully employed within the established guidelines at a rate to
meet (80%) or exceed the threshold as established by the ARC-STSA
or will continue their academic pursuits.
5- Graduate and Employer Satisfaction Surveys will be returned
at a rate to meet (50%) or exceed program thresholds as established
by ARC-STSA.
6- Graduate and Employer Satisfaction Survey rating will be at a rate
to meet (80%) or exceed program thresholds as established by ARCSTSA.
5
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Program Goals Explanation
The primary mission of the Surgical Technology program is to train competent
surgical technologists for employment in medical centers, hospitals and other
surgical facilities in Western North Carolina (Goal 1, 2 and 4). The program
provides classroom, laboratory and clinical training to students desiring to
become surgical technologists in area medical centers, hospitals and other
surgical facilities. Didactic and lab instruction take place on campus during the
first semester. Clinical observation by the students occurs during the first
semester post completion of program requirements (immunizations, physicals,
CPR, background checks, drug screening, and institutional mandatory
education) and the passing of Lab Practical #1. Didactic and laboratory
instruction continues in the second semester. Additional lab training and
clinical training are provided by local medical centers during the second
semester. Didactic and clinical training continue in the third semester of this
three semester program (Goal 2).
To continue in the program the student must be able to demonstrate basic
knowledge of surgical technology concepts and be able to demonstrate the
ability to perform the basic responsibilities of a surgical technologist in the
clinical role. To graduate from this program the student must have
demonstrated successful completion of the Surgical Technology Program
Objectives (Goal 1).
The goals of the surgical technology program in the cognitive domain are that
the student will be able to successfully pass both quizzes and comprehensive
examinations based upon the lectures of the program faculty and guest
lecturers. They will be able to understand presented material from various
sources (instructional videos, internet sources, textbooks, articles, handouts,
and lectures) and demonstrate the ability to synthesize the information to
successfully complete the homework assignments and pass quizzes or tests.
The students will be able to discuss and identify key concepts in surgical
technology such as aseptic principles, the operative sequence, and the duties of
a surgical technologist in both the scrub and circulating roles (Goal 1).
In order to evaluate the success of the student in acquiring and mastering the
necessary psychomotor skills of the surgical technologist, the students must
successfully demonstrate skill mastery prior to entering the surgical suite as an
OR (operating room) team member. The student must also pass two
videotaped lab practical examinations demonstrating sound aseptic technique
6
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
and knowledge of basic surgical technology skills. The lab practicals
incorporate the skills to form pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative
case management. Lab practical one is the application of all pre-operative case
management skills. Lab practical two is lab practical one with the addition of
intra-operative and post-operative case management skills. These videotaped
examinations are evaluated individually with the student and feedback is given
by the instructor at this time. The students are given up to two attempts to pass
this examination and are given individual instruction and practice time to be
able to demonstrate mastery of these necessary skills. During this evaluation
the student is also given the opportunity to discuss any needs they have with the
instructor and if necessary, a plan is developed to meet these needs.
Psychomotor, cognitive, and affective skills are assessed daily during clinical
course time by institutional preceptors via the surgical clinical preceptor
evaluation report (SCPER) tool. Psychomotor, cognitive, and affective skills
are assessed by clinical programmatic instructional staff via daily feedback,
daily instructor reports, formal instructor evaluations, and a formal final exam
evaluation. Attention is focused on the assimilation and application of surgical
procedure theory to the clinical environment (Goal 1).
In order to assess the affective learning domain multiple areas are stressed.
Program and clinical behavioral expectations are reviewed during incoming
student orientation and reviewed again day one of the program. These are
listed in the program’s student handbook. Beginning in fall semester, students
are expected to adhere to the 90% attendance policy. This is continued
throughout the program. Communication and teamwork are stressed.
Teamwork is initiated with the surgical technology club which is organized
week one of the program. The club works to fund AST (Association of
Surgical Technology) membership, lapel pin purchase, catering for pinning,
and monies to go towards off-setting NBSTSA certification costs throughout
the program via collaborative efforts of the class itself with supervision and
guidance from instructors. Open lab time promotes teambuilding. Study groups
are encouraged. Group projects occur throughout the program again to promote
teamwork. Proper hygiene and behavioral expectations becoming of an allied
health care professional are emphasized and are part of the program
expectations. Each Wednesday during spring and summer semesters, there is
time devoted to post-clinical conference. This provides students the chance to
discuss their clinical experiences, discuss feelings about their experiences, and
seek clarification of procedures they may have observed. All students are
required to participate and learn from the experiences of their peers. In this
meeting, patient confidentiality is honored while providing all students the
7
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
opportunity to discuss as a group what may or may not be working for them
individually. They share their good and not-so-good experiences with their
classmates. The students are also required to keep a journal and are encouraged
to discuss issues with the instructors if they feel they need extra help or
guidance. Students are evaluated daily by clinical preceptors during clinical
rotations in spring and summer in areas such as punctuality, surgical
conscience, communication, respect, integrity, and teamwork. These areas are
also assessed during instructor evaluations and final clinical evaluations ( Goal 1).
During the summer semester, SUR 137 Professional Success Preparation is
presented. This course provides students an opportunity to discuss
professionalism in the field and to reflect upon steps they should take to
prepare for a successful and professional career as a surgical technologist.
Resume preparation is stressed as well as role playing for interviewing and
conflict resolution. Local peri-operative managers and educators serve as guest
lecturers to advise students in preparing for their professional careers. AST
membership benefits are explored. Membership in AST is required by early
spring semester. Membership fees are covered by funds from the surgical
technology club. Comprehensive curriculum review testing is done throughout
SUR 137 to prepare students for the NBSTSA certification exam. Test taking
strategies are reviewed for satisfactory performance on the NBSTSA national
certification exam, which is required by the program’s accrediting body as well
as most area employers (Goal 1).
Student retention is monitored and reported to ARC-STSA via annual reports
(Goal 3). Currently the program is not at threshold levels as set by ARCSTSA. The program strives to find the key to increasing student retention.
This is the primary focus of the program at this time. The program is
committed to meeting threshold retention levels as established by ARC-STSA.
Methods have been applied as described in previous annual reports to increase
retention. Prior to entry into the first semester of the program students are
required to shadow a current student during the summer semester for one
clinical day to confirm that this is the career they are interested in pursuing.
During the first semester of the program, student observations are allowed after
completing Lab Practical #1. As of 2008, applicants cannot apply to the
program without first meeting with the program chair (information session) to
ensure that all program expectations as well as program scheduling is conveyed
(Goal 3).
8
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Graduating student employment is monitored and reported to ARC-STSA via
annual reports (Goal 4). Students continue to meet thresholds as established by
ARC-STSA for successful employment post-graduation. We have a unique
situation for our impending graduates in that hospitals are willing to set aside
specific times for interviews of all impending graduates. Students are prepared
for interviews by early resume preparation in early summer semester and
interview role-playing in the Professional Expectations course SUR 137 (Goal
1). Prospective employers also visit students during the SUR 137 course to
prepare them for interviews as well as answer any questions they may have
regarding their institution (Goal 4).
Feedback from students is obtained each semester via program and instructor
evaluations (Goal 5). It is stressed to students that we cannot make
improvements in the program without their suggestions or recommendations.
ARC-STSA graduate surveys are given to students six months post-graduation
(Goal 5). Return of graduate surveys as well as satisfaction with the program
continues to meet threshold as established by ARC-STSA (Goal 5).
Feedback from employers is critical as well. Employers are surveyed at or after
nine months post-student employment utilizing the employer survey form from
ARC-STSA (Goal 5). Employer satisfaction continues to be at threshold as
established by ARC-STSA. Employers and preceptors are spoken to
throughout the clinical courses to ensure that students are performing at
expected levels as well as to solicit constructive criticism. Student weaknesses
are identified early and remedied as a result (Goal 5). At annual program
advisory committee (PAC) meetings, employers, who are part of this
committee, are encouraged to share ideas for student improvement. Should an
employer not be comfortable discussing an issue in front of other members,
they are encouraged to discuss issues with the program chair (Goal 5). The
program chairperson stresses at advisory committee meetings that we cannot
improve or remedy issues or problems that arise if we are unaware of what
those issues or problems are. The job market for pending graduates is discussed
at the annual advisory committee meeting.
9
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
AB-TECH SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY DIPLOMA PROGRAM STUDENT
LEARNING OUTCOME OBJECTIVES
UPON COMPLETION OF AB-TECH’S SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM, THE
STUDENT WILL:
1. Apply health care science (anatomy and physiology, pharmacology and
anesthesia, medical terminology, microbiology, and pathophysiology) and
technological science concepts (electricity, information technology, and
robotics) within the practice of surgical technology.
2. Apply knowledge of the fundamental elements of patient care and surgical
technology concepts during preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative
patient care in both the sterile and non-sterile roles for surgical procedures
within all surgical specialties (general, obstetrics, gynecology, genitourinary,
otorhinolaryngological, orthopedic, oral/maxillo-facial, plasticreconstructive, ophthalmic, cardiothoracic, peripheral vascular, and
neurosurgical).
3. Complete a minimum of 120 clinical cases as defined by the Association
of Surgical Technology (AST) Core Curriculum in Surgical Technology 6th
edition page 173 in both the first scrub role and second scrub role in the
clinical setting.
4. Effectively communicate as well as participate and think critically as a
surgical team member while practicing within the professional standards
of conduct and practice.
10
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
AB-TECH SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE
PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOME OBJECTIVES
UPON COMPLETION OF AB-TECH’S AAS SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM, THE
STUDENT WILL:
Apply advanced practice concepts for a surgical department in the education,
circulating, scrub, and management roles by:
1. Integrating health care management skills to improve personal surgical
facility awareness.
2. Formulating a patient plan of care in the circulating role.
3. Implementing patient care for a surgical procedure in which the certified
surgical technologist is currently unspecialized.
4. Executing an educational presentation.
11
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Surgical Technology Program Competencies per AST
Outcome Objective Assessment Criteria
(Numerical order does not imply priority or sequence.)
A.
Provide for Patient and Staff Safety
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
B.
Plan and Prepare for Surgical Procedure
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
C.
Inspect operating table and accessories.
Determine if equipment is functioning properly prior to use.
Count sharps, instruments, and sponges (before surgery and at closure).
Recognize patient's consciousness level.
Identify patient, procedure, and operative site.
Check patient allergies, consent form, and appropriate documentation.
Apply safety straps and positioning aids.
Practice proper body mechanics.
Transport patient to surgical suite.
Protect conscious and unconscious patient from injury.
Choose appropriate site r grounding pad.
Protect self and others by applying policies and procedures of sharps.
Recognize and adhere to Universal Precautions.
Organize and properly dispose of wastes.
Review the surgical procedure and surgeon's preferences.
Coordinate necessary resources.
Select appropriate instruments, supplies, and equipment.
Assure that equipment functions properly prior to procedure.
Safely position patient for surgical procedure and maintain proper
anatomical alignment.
Prep surgical site.
Verify and prepare specimens for pathology and laboratory testing.
Use test results to anticipate needs of surgical team.
Practice Aseptic Technique
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Dress appropriately for restricted areas.
Define sterile field.
Check integrity of packages and indicators for damage and holes.
Distinguish between sterile and nonsterile.
Move around sterile field appropriately.
Deliver and receive sterile items to sterile field.
Define the invisible boundary between sterile and nonsterile fields.
Maintain integrity of sterile field.
Recognize and correct breaks in sterile technique.
12
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
D.
Use Equipment According to Established Policies and Procedures
1.
2.
Participate in in-service on new equipment.
Select equipment appropriate to the procedure.
3.
Follow manufacturers' guidelines and recommendations for the use of
products and equipment.
Practice recommended safety precautions.
Assemble machines and select proper settings.
Check equipment prior to procedure.
Identify and report faulty equipment.
Monitor equipment during the procedure.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
E.
Use and Care for Instruments
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
F.
Identify name of instrument and its appropriate use.
Follow manufacturers' guidelines and recommendations for proper use and
care.
Check instrument for proper functioning and cleanliness prior to
procedure.
Identify and label instruments in need of maintenance and facilitate repair.
Distinguish between disposable and nondisposable equipment.
Separate instruments safely according to use, care, and delicacy.
Transport soiled instruments to decontamination area.
Wash, sterilize, and store instruments appropriately.
Prepare Medications
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Identify and obtain correct medications.
Verify patient allergies.
Check expiration date and label.
Verify and communicate dosage.
Identify route of administration.
Deliver and receive medications appropriately to field.
Label medications on sterile field appropriately.
13
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
G.
Participate in Surgical Procedures
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
H.
Handle Instruments
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
I.
Communicate with surgical team.
Organize, prioritize, and anticipate needs of surgical team.
Obtain supplies, instruments, and equipment.
Practice aseptic technique.
Perform surgical scrub.
Don surgical gown and gloves (self and team).
Count sharps, instruments, and sponges per procedures.
Arrange mayo stand and backtable to meet surgical team's needs.
Prepare and adjust equipment, instruments, and supplies for anticipated
use.
Recognize steps of surgical procedures.
Anticipate and react efficiently.
Respond to emergency situations.
Cover surgical site.
Remove surgical drapes.
Apply surgical dressing
Clean and dry surgical site.
Anticipate instrument to be used.
Keep work area organized and standardized.
Pass instruments properly.
Interpret nonverbal communications and signs.
Develop fine motor skills and speed of assembly.
Practice Sterile Supply Room Procedures
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Recognize sterile and nonsterile instruments.
Process instruments from nonsterile to sterile.
Select appropriate sterilization method (gas, steam, chemical).
Select appropriate packaging to insure sterility.
Wrap/package and label instruments and equipment properly.
Follow manufacturers' guidelines and recommendation.
Maintain sterility during transport and storage.
Store supplies and equipment properly to maintain package integrity.
Protect and maintain specialty instruments.
Check expiration dates of package or follow manufacturers' guidelines.
14
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
J.
Demonstrate Professionalism
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
K.
Participate as a Team Member
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
L.
Maintain confidentiality.
Protect patient rights and privacy.
Practice dependability.
Be punctual.
Be accountable.
Be reliable.
Be responsible.
Respect self and others.
Accept assignments.
Wear appropriate attire.
Consider emotions and physical needs of patient and staff.
Adhere to medical facility's policies and procedures.
Continue education/professional development (in-service training).
Recognize roles and responsibilities of the surgical team.
Accept responsibility for assigned team duties.
Recognize needs and support team members.
Communicate effectively.
Give and take constructive criticism.
Demonstrate a positive attitude.
Participate actively.
Be assertive in asking questions and helping team members.
Share knowledge.
Act within the scope of an STSR.
Identify and Measure Quality
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Identify customer.
Identify customer needs.
Evaluate new products.
Facilitate quality improvement.
Contain cost without compromising quality.
Secure customer satisfaction.
15
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
M.
Practice Effective Oral, Written, and Electronic Communications
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Establish open channels of communication.
Introduce yourself to patients and staff.
Speak clearly, concisely, and audibly.
Communicate with courtesy and respect.
Respond and clarify information directed to you.
Share critical information.
Ask appropriate questions.
Utilize and apply medical terminology.
Observe and respond to nonverbal communication.
Demonstrate knowledge of electronic communication devices (beepers,
fax, etc.).
Practice telephone and intercom etiquette.
Demonstrate basic computer skills.
Update procedure preference cards/lists.
16
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
MANDATORY PROGRAM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
 Physical examination: form completed by student and
physician/physician’s assistant, Family Nurse Practitioner
validating physical, mental and emotional health conducive
to completing the program of study
 Immunization records indicating completion of the following
vaccines:
o MMR x 2 (measles mumps, rubella)
o DTP (diphtheria tetanus pertussis) current
o Varicella vaccine x 2 or varicella titer with positive
results (chicken pox)
o Hepatitis B series (x 3 shots)
o PPD (purified protein derivative= tuberculosis skin test)
within last year (maintain/is only good for one year
only)
o Influenza (in season/September-October) combo
(H1N1/seasonal flu)
 CPR - for the professional rescuer or health care professional
(infant, child, adult, AED training)
 Criminal background check through “Intellenet”. This
company is exclusive to our clinical sites. Specific forms will
be given to you the student to use with specific codes and
passwords that allow clinical sites access to your records.
 Drug screening through “Intellenet” beginning the third week
of May (after 15th) of each year before fall semester start.
This company is exclusive to our clinical sites. Specific forms
will be given to you the student to use with specific codes
and passwords that allow clinical sites access to your records.
 OSHA blood borne pathogens training
 Clinical site mandatory education modules (vary per site)
17
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
SIGNED EXPECTATIONS
I have read and understand the course descriptions, course outlines, and course syllabi. I have
had the opportunity to ask any questions I have with the program instructors regarding
attendance, grades, classroom rules, and other procedures.
I understand and accept that I will be photographed to provide a picture of myself to clinical sites
for security reasons as well as at different times during clinical for a pinning ceremony slide show.
I recognize and accept that peer, instructor, preceptor critique, and preceptor evaluations, will be
done throughout the program. I understand and accept that I will be graded in front of other
people throughout the program. I recognize that this is customary training and evaluation for an
allied health program and accept this as part of my educational process in surgical technology. I
recognize and accept that clinical issues will be discussed in front of my peers in an anonymous
fashion in the classroom setting to serve as a post-clinical conference, hence instructional tool.
Additionally, I understand that my clinical performance may be discussed both in class and via email in “daily clinical reports” in an anonymous fashion. I further understand that all coursework
and testing including didactic and lab are rigorous and highly detailed.
I have read, understand and agree to abide by the Surgical Technology Handbook, the AshevilleBuncombe Technical Community College Catalog and Student Handbook. I understand and
agree to abide by the College and Program’s policies regarding attendance, grades, and
expected classroom, lab and clinical behaviors/expectations.
I understand that there will be no cell phone use permitted by students during any portion of a
didactic session and that all cell phones will be collected by the instructor and left at the
instructor’s desk for the duration of the class.
I understand that any students whose cell phone is heard during class, whether on vibrate or
audio, will be asked to leave the classroom and will receive an absence for the day, as well as
forfeiting any possible grades/points that could be earned during the class session following the
incident. Laptop/smart-phone usage will not be permitted in the classroom. This policy is in effect
for every didactic setting, from admission through graduation/pinning.
I understand the importance of attendance during didactic, lab, and clinical training and that there
will be NO opportunities to make up missed labs or clinical experiences. I understand that
tardiness will not be tolerated for any course. I understand that late or incomplete homework will
not be accepted. I accept that tardiness will result in my ineligibility to take weekly tests. I accept
responsibility to obtain missed information.
I understand that ALL SUR classes (as well as some classes outside the SUR curriculum listed in
my syllabus) are co-requisite classes. This means that if I fail one class, all classes are forfeited.
This means that failure in one class will result in me being removed from all SUR classes.
I have received Moodle access and recognize that I may keep track of my academic progress at
all times via the Moodle Grade book.
I understand that should I have questions I may seek clarification from my instructors at any time.
Printed Name__________________________
Signature
__________________________
Date
__________________________
18
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
PROGRAM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Students enrolled in the Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College Surgical
Technology program are responsible for understanding and observing College rules and
regulations as stated in the current College Catalog, College Activity Student Handbook
and Program Handbook. Some student policies have been adopted as supplements to the
official admissions and academic policies to meet standards and needs specific and
relevant to the Surgical Technology program and the delivery of its plan of study. These
policies apply to all students accepted and enrolled in the program regardless of their
individual date of enrollment.
Failure to comply with the published policies and procedures of the college, program, or
course syllabi will result in counseling of the student on an individual basis with
consequences assigned based upon the seriousness of the offense. All disciplinary
actions will comply with the rules of the Division and the College and may include verbal
and/or written warnings, disciplinary probation’s/suspensions, referral to the Vice
President for Student Services or particular consequences adapted to the violation.
If the student is unable to comply with the stated policies and procedures, it may be in the
best interest of the student, the program and the college for the student to seek another
program in which to develop vocational skills.
Each student will be required to sign a statement that they have reviewed,
understand and agree to comply with the policies and procedures of the Surgical
Technology program.
AST/ARC-STSA/NBSTSA
REQUIRED NATIONAL CERTIFICATION TESTING-ELIGIBILITY IS CONTINGENT
UPON MEETING AST CORE CURRICULUM STANDARDS. ARC-STSAOVERSEES
PROGRAMMATIC ACCREDIATION AND MONITORS PROGRAMS TO ENSURE
THAT AST CORE CURRIUCULM STANDARDS ARE BEING FOLLOWED UPHELD. A
GRADUATE OF THE ABTECH SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM MUST HAVE
COMPLETED A MINIMUM OF 120 CASES TOTAL WITH 80 OF THEM BEING
PERFORMED INDEPENDENTLY. CASES ARE BROKEN INTO GENERAL AND
SPECIALTY SECTIONS. WITHIN THOSE SECTIONS, THERE ARE VARIOUS
SURGERY TYPES. OF THE 80 CASES THAT A STUDENT MUST INDEPENDENTLY
SCRUB, 20 OF THESE CASES WILL BE GENERAL SURGERY AND 60 WILL BE
VARIOUS SPECIALTY PROCEDURES. THE ADDITIONAL 40 CASES WILL BE
PERFORMED IN THE SECOND SCRUB ROLE. A TOTAL OF 10 OF THESE WILL BE
GENERAL SURGERY AND 30 WILL BE VARIOUS SURGICAL SPECIALTY
PROCEDURES. FURTHER EXPLANATION WILL BE PROVIDED IN THE SURGICAL
TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM CASE LOG BOOK AT THE END OF THIS HANDBOOK.
FAILURE TO MEET THIS CRITERION WILL RESULT IN THE STUDENT’S
INELGIBILITY TO GRADUATE FROM THIS PROGRAM.
19
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
CODE FOR PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
A code of professional conduct is an essential premise to any profession in which society
places its trust. The student aspiring to membership in a profession inherits an obligation
to adhere to the profession’s established standards of conduct. Students of the Division
of Allied Health and Public Service Education are expected to conduct themselves in a
professional manner in interactions with peers, faculty, staff, patients, clients and the
public. The ABTECH Code of Student Conduct and Code of Classroom Conduct are
applicable to the Surgical Technology program whether a student is in the classroom, lab
or the clinical setting. These Conduct Codes can be located in the College Catalog.
The student will be expected to:
1.
Abide by the regulations and policies of the program and training sites.
2.
Exhibit an attitude of respect, concern and cooperation toward peers, faculty and
staff.
3.
Practice personal grooming and hygiene.
4.
Accept responsibility for one’s own work and results; demonstrate willingness to
accept suggestions for improvement.
5.
Recognize and respect the role and competencies of other professionals and
cooperate with them for the benefit of the person served.
6.
Refuse to participate in, or conceal, any unlawful, incompetent or unethical
practice.
7.
Demonstrate sound judgment commensurate with his or her level of training and
experience.
8.
Provide services without regard to race, creed, national origin, sex, age, handicap,
disease entity, social status, financial status or religious affiliation.
9.
Exhibit concern primarily for the welfare of the individual served above all other
considerations (i.e., course requirements).
10.
Protect the confidential nature of information gained from educational, practice
and investigation activities unless sharing such information could be deemed
necessary to protect the well-being of the person served.
11.
Maintain physical, mental and emotional composure in difficult situations.
12.
Refrain from lying, cheating, stealing, or intentionally misleading or deceiving
anyone as to the known facts.
20
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
All students in the Surgical Technology program are expected to conduct
themselves with the courtesy and dignity customary to the surgical
professional. Surgical technology is a profession dealing with human beings
in their most vulnerable state. Situations may be emergent and will be
stressful. Dishonesty such as lying, cheating, stealing, use of alcohol, use of
illegal drugs, while on duty either in class or on clinical rotation, is
prohibited. These are grounds for immediate dismissal from the program.
The surgical technology program is mirrored after the surgical work place
environment. Neither tardiness nor absenteeism will be tolerated. Turning in
incomplete work or late work will not be tolerated. Work is expected to be
prompt and complete just as it would be expected to be in the real operating
room environment. Incomplete work will not be accepted. Late work will
not be accepted. Tardiness or absenteeism will result in the inability to turn
in work on time. Tardiness or absenteeism will also result in the inability to
make up a missed exam. There are no exceptions. The syllabi expectations
are reflective of these statements.
PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT
Suspected acts of professional misconduct that are also violations of the
ABTCC Code of Student Conduct will be referred to the Vice President of
Student Services for investigation and appropriate discipline. Students
should refer to the current College Catalog or ABTCC Student Calendar for
more information concerning the ABTCC Code of Student Conduct.
Students are expected to uphold the student code of conduct of ABTCC
in addition to the Surgical Technology Code of Conduct.
21
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
INSURANCE
All students participating in the clinical training in SUR 123 & SUR
135 are covered by the liability insurance provided by the College. It is
highly recommended that all students have some type of medical insurance
coverage prior to enrollment in SUR 123. The college provides health and
accident insurance to all students for nominal fee. The liability insurance is
incorporated into your tuition fee and is required. In the event a student
becomes ill or is injured during the course of on-campus study or while
involved in instructional activities at clinical affiliates or other approved offcampus sites, it is the practice of the college administration to assist or to
arrange for transporting the student to the nearest medical emergency unit.
Neither the College nor the affiliating agencies assume further responsibility
for student health, injury or medical costs.
The student will follow the clinical site’s policy regarding the incident
and complete an institution required and school required incident report for
documentation. In the event an accident, incident, or needle stick occurs at a
clinical site, please notify a program faculty member as soon as possible.
(See Appendix AB–Tech Bloodborne Pathogens on-campus incident)
Students that do not adhere to safety precautions, who are injured as
a result of non-compliance to policies or standards, are not protected or
covered by school liability insurance. It is therefore expected that students
will at all times during their clinical rotations, protect themselves.
Protective standards include, but are not limited to, double gloving and
wearing safety goggles during any surgical procedure that the student is
involved in as well as wearing the surgical mask properly and keeping it
on at all times while in a restricted area.
22
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
CLINICAL AND LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE
(APPLIES TO ON-SITE CLINICAL ACTIVITIES ONLY)
 Liability coverage is available to students 24 hours per day, 7 days
per week in relation to on-site clinical activities
 In the event that you are at a clinical site and the college closes or is
delayed, continue your assignment for the day and await further
instructions from your instructors. DO NOT LEAVE unless notified by
instructors to do so. This will be routed through the operating room
front desk if instructors are not on-site.
GRADING SYSTEM
A
B
C
D
F
=
=
=
=
=
90-100
80-89
70-79
60-69
below 60
Excellent academic performance
Good academic performance
Average academic performance
Marginal academic performance
Poor academic performance
PROGRESSION
A student may NOT progress to the next semester with a grade of less than
“C” in any major core curriculum course. These courses include: SUR 110,
SUR 111, BIO 163, SUR 122, SUR 123, BIO 175 SUR 134, SUR 135, SUR
137. Failure to pass these courses in addition to the following will render
the student ineligible to graduate from the surgical technology program. An
“F” in the following curriculum courses will render the student unable to
graduate: ENG 111, CIS 110, and ACA 115.
There are specific requirements for surgical technology courses: SUR 111,
SUR 123, and SUR 135 that must be satisfied to progress and therefore
graduate. These specifications and requirements are enforced to ensure
patient safety at all times in the clinical settings. These are listed in the
syllabi for each of these courses mentioned above. See page 33 as well.
23
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
STUDENT APPEAL POLICY
Any disciplinary decision the student feels is unjustified, unfair or a
violation of their rights is eligible for an appeal using the Student Appeal
Policy outlined in the current College Catalog. The office of the Vice
President for Student Services will also have a complete copy of the Student
Appeal Policy. In general, the student is encouraged to discuss the matter
with the assigned instructor first, before initiating the appeals process. This
would apply if the situation was in the classroom or clinical setting.
JUSTIFICATION
The student policies as stated above are stringent to match the
seriousness of the program and the profession. Academic and clinical
mediocrity cannot be tolerated in a field where personnel are responsible for
the lives of the sick and injured. The graduate surgical technologist assists
in the perioperative care of individuals requiring surgical intervention,
therefore, only the academically and clinically competent should be
permitted to participate in this critical patient care field.
24
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Regular attendance is required for the student to maintain academic
progress, complete all course requirements and receive the optimum benefit
of instruction. The attendance policy as outlined in the student handbook,
the Surgical Technology Student Handbook, and the syllabus for each
individual course will be strictly enforced with attendance taken at the
beginning of each didactic class, laboratory session and /or clinical session.
It is believed that regular and punctual attendance helps students to achieve
their potential and develop desirable personal traits necessary to obtain
employment. This will be true in any Allied Health profession. These traits
will be among the first looked at by prospective employers. Every time a
student is in the clinical rotation, it can be compared to an informal job
interview. This further emphasizes the importance of full time attendance
for classes, labs and clinicals.
Please be advised that the classroom door will be locked on the hour
that class time is to begin. If you are late, you will not be permitted entry
until the first class break period. Additionally, if you are late, you will not be
permitted to submit any homework that is due for that day as it is due at the
start of class. If there were examinations that occurred while you were
awaiting the first break to enter the classroom, you will not be permitted to
make up that examination.
There are times when an absence will occur. Please note that there are
no excused absences. The reason for an absence will be taken into
consideration based on provided documentation should the student exceed
absences of 10% for each course. That being said, a student may not be
asked to withdraw based on failure to meet the 90% attendance requirement
depending upon the reason for the absence and validating documentation for
the absence (physician’s note for example). Academic averages either
meeting or exceeding 70% (grade of “C”) will still be the student’s
responsibility to achieve; grades will NOT be modified or curved for any
reason to be consistent in program expectations for all students.
25
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Considerations when an absence occurs:
1.
Proper call in Procedure
Students who must miss a class or laboratory experience are
expected to notify the instructor. Failure to do so will result in
disciplinary measures being instituted.
2.
All absences will result in the student receiving a grade of zero
on all assignments due for that day. Tests will not be allowed to
be made up. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain missed
assignments. Final exams are mandatory and must be made up
within one day of it being missed. It will not be the same final
exam administered to the class the day prior.
3.
There are NO make ups for missed clinical training sessions
(SUR 123 and SUR 135). Our clinical days and times are
dictated by our clinical facilities.
If a student is absent from a clinical rotational area, besides contacting
the program instructor and clinical instructor for that facility, the appropriate
hospital clinical supervisor must be called as well (a message may be left at
OR front desk). The OR clinical supervisor must be given the same
information as is given to the program instructor:
1)
Student’s name
2)
BRIEF Reason why absent
This notification should take place no less than one hour before the
scheduled time for the rotation start. Phone numbers for clinical contacts are
provided in the clinical course syllabi.
Clinical training is an extremely important portion of Surgical
Technology and absences will not be tolerated. Students will be expected
to adhere to their assigned clinical schedule and the rotational hours of their
clinical sites. Continuous absences from clinical training will not be
tolerated and if a student misses more than 2 (two) clinical sessions they will
be asked to meet with the program director to re-evaluate their commitment
to the program. The ABTECH Allied Health 90 percent attendance
policy will be enforced during all classroom, laboratory and clinical
courses.
26
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
TARDINESS
1.
Habitual tardiness to clinical assignments will not be tolerated. A
responsible student will arrive to class or clinical sites in plenty of
time to ensure they are in their assigned areas ready to begin at the
assigned time. Long travel time, traffic or missing the shuttle will not
be considered as excuses for being tardy.
2.
A tardy is defined as arriving at any time after the designated start
time of the class. A tardy will also be given for leaving early or being
away from assigned clinical duties without permission. Students who
arrive more than one hour late or leave more than one hour early for
any reason from clinical assignments may lose some credit for the
participation portion of the clinical grade for that day. The clinical site
reserves the right to not accept a student for the day if the student is
tardy. This will result in an absence for the student that day.
3.
It is departmental and college policy that three tardies is the
equivalent of one full day’s absence from class or clinic. This means
that for every third clinical or classroom tardy, the student will have
one day absence documented. These accumulated absences due to
tardiness will count toward the 90% minimum attendance for that
semester’s course.
4.
Students should understand that the classroom/lab door will be shut
and locked on the hour of class/lab start. Students will not be
permitted entry until the first break. This occurs one hour after the
start of class/lab. Students will not be permitted to make up any
missed work that is not turned in or take a test that was missed due to
their tardiness. The trait of reliability is paramount in health care
professionals. Surgical patients do not wait on us to show up.
5.
Submitted assignments that are incomplete will receive a grade of
zero. It is important to make sure that you put something down for all
questions or assigned areas for a homework or assignment. Surgical
technologists do NOT take short cuts or omit details during patient
care, therefore, the classroom/laboratory/clinical assignments will be
treated the same as an operating room in that regard.
27
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Inclement Weather
1. The President shall determine the classifications of days as hazardous,
marginal or late opening. In the absence of the President, the determination
shall be made by the Vice President Administrative Services.
2. Announcements concerning school operation will be made as soon as possible
and announced on all local radio and TV stations for all day classes. In
addition, announced closings will be posted on the College web page, on the
switchboard, and on the Victoria Road electronic message board. If it appears
that ice or snow may be cleared before the day is over, a late opening will be
announced as soon as possible. Students should attend classes as scheduled.
Important: If weather conditions become worse after an initial decision is
made, an additional announcement closing school for the day will be made as
soon as possible.
3. Closing or delaying the day programs does not automatically close evening
classes. Announcements will be made concerning the evening classes in the
afternoon through the media (mentioned in Item 2).
4. When weather conditions dictate early dismissal of day or evening classes,
the announcement will be made by telephone and classroom computers to
each building on campus.
5. Commuters should exercise personal judgment concerning highway
conditions regardless of College announcements, particularly those
commuting from outlying areas.
6. Curriculum class work can be made up by rescheduling the class, extra
assignments, individual conferences, extended class sessions, on-line
assignments, or other alternatives as determined by the Vice President,
Instructional Services.
7. Continuing Education sessions missed because of inclement weather will be
rescheduled whenever possible. If the actual class time is not made up, the
compensation of instructors paid on an hourly basis and the reported student
hours in membership will be adjusted accordingly.
Definitions
 Level 3: Hazardous Day: Travel conditions are unsafe and no improvement is
expected within a reasonable time. College is closed to faculty, staff and
students. College classes will not meet and special events will not be held.
 Level 2: Marginal Day: Improving Conditions Expected Day: Early weather
conditions are hazardous, improvement expected, but not enough time to have all
parking lots and sidewalks cleaned. College is closed to faculty and students.
Staff reports at the designated college opening time. Special events will not be
held.
 Level 1: Late Opening Day: Early weather conditions are hazardous,
improvement expected and parking and sidewalks can be cleared for a late
opening. College classes will begin late at a time announced through the
appropriate media. Faculty, staff and students are to report to the work or class
location consistent with their schedule for the designated opening time. Special
events will be held once the college has opened.
28
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
CLINICAL and INCLEMENT WEATHER
 You are all adult learners! Use your best judgment when deciding if
you can make it to clinical safely. Only you can make that decision.
 Instructors do not know your individual road conditions only you do.
 We are going to provide you with additional time to make it to clinical
on days when it is CLEAR that winter weather is a factor.
 If you look outside and decide to wait until the roads clear, you will
have until 0750 to make it into your clinical site and be dressed and
ready to go into surgery as opposed to the normal 0650 start time.
 This will count as a tardy. Three tardies still equal an absence.
 If you cannot make it to clinical by the 0750 start, you will accrue an
absence for the day; a zero on that day’s SCPER.
 Please be clear that make-up days may be added during spring break
and up to three days may be added to the end of the semester in the
event that days need to be made up due to inclement weather. It is
your responsibility to make arrangements to be in attendance should
additional days be added to the semester. This is a serious issue
considering that final exam dates may have to be extended to these
additional days. Avoid making travel plans prior to spring break or
the end of a semester.
 Please go to the following link http://www.wlos.com/mobile/ and add
ABTECH for weather updates that will be texted automatically to your
cell phone. This will allow you to will have the same access as
instructors do regarding delays and closures. Standard texting rates will
apply should you chose to use this feature.
Please remember that you must contact your instructor and
make them aware of your situation and when and if you will
arrive to clinical that day.
29
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
PREGNANCY POLICY
The Surgical Technology Curriculum involves exposure to certain hazardous
environmental conditions. All participants must therefore notify their instructor if they
have a reason to avoid such exposure that may create a health risk to an unborn fetus.
These hazardous exposures can result in congenital defects, fetal growth retardation, or
death of an unborn fetus.
At the first knowledge of pregnancy, the student must meet with the program Chairperson
and the following information provided:
 Stage of pregnancy
 Student’s intention regarding continuing in the program
The student will be advised of the following risks associated with the program:
 Biohazards
 Teratogens
 Cytotoxic compounds
 Ionizing radiation
 Anesthetic gases
 Hormonal agents
 Physical injuries
The student will be given the following options:
 Continue in the program without change or special consideration.
 Continue in the didactic portion of the program and return the following year to
complete the clinical course pending re-entry requirements being satisfied.
 Request a medical leave of absence from all SUR courses where withdrawal
without grade penalty will be honored if in good standing and return the following
year to be readmitted for the semester start that this medical leave is granted and
pending re-entry requirements being satisfied.
Confidentiality of a student’s pregnancy will be maintained, however, those instructors
and clinical staff directly involved in courses in which the student may be exposed to any
hazard will be notified so that accommodations can be made to avoid those hazards if
possible.
The student will be given the “Physician Checklist for Pregnancy” that must be
completed and signed by the physician and student before the student will be allowed to
continue in the program.
If the student opts to continue in the program, the student must also sign the “Statement
of Release-Student Health form for Pregnancy” to document that the student is
cognizant of these hazards and the risks they the student assume by continuing.
30
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
PHYSICIAN CHECKLIST FOR PREGNANCY
My obstetrician has discussed the following with me concerning potential
risks to myself and the fetus by being in an operating room environment:
 Exposure to anesthetic gases
 Exposure to Teratogens including Cytotoxic compounds, chemical
agents, sterilizing agents, cleaning agents, preserving agents
(formalin) and joint setting agents (bone cement).
 Exposure to hormones
 Exposure to ionizing radiation and other sources of radioactive
material.
 Exposure to Biohazards
 Exposure to traumatic injury such as Electrical hazards
 Exposure to potential Physical injuries (heavy lifting of instrument
trays, standing long periods of time, and the absence of a break for up
to seven hours)
I have discussed with my physician that I understand as a Surgical
Technology student that I have inherent risks in this profession. I accept the
responsibility of taking precautions necessary to decrease my risk of
hazardous exposures as I complete my educational pursuit in Surgical
Technology at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College.
_______________________________
Student Signature
_______________________________
Parent Signature (if student under age 18)
______________________
Date
_______________________
Date
Physician’s Name: (Print)_________________________________
(Signature)______________________________
Physician’s Office Address: _______________________________
________________________________
31
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Surgical Technology Program
Student Health Form for Pregnancy
Statement of Release
I certify that the risks associated with my pregnancy as they relate to the
Surgical Technology Program have been explained to me by my physician
and I understand these risks. In consideration of my continued enrollment in
the program, I hereby release and hold harmless Asheville-Buncombe
Technical Community College from and for any liability associated with my
pregnancy and the risks outlined in the “Physician Checklist for Pregnancy”,
which risks I hereby assume responsibility for.
Student name (Printed) _________________________________
(Signature)_________________________________
(Date) _________________________________
In Addition, if the student is under 18 years of age:
Parent or guardian name (Printed) __________________________
(Signature)_________________________
(Date) _________________________
32
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
ACADEMIC PROGRESS
The following Surgical Technology major core courses require a grade of “C” or higher for successful
completion and academic progression:
BIO 163
SUR 110
SUR 111
BIO 175
SUR 122
SUR 123
SUR 134
SUR 135
SUR 137
Anatomy and Physiology
Introduction to Surgical Technology
Periop Patient Care
General Microbiology
Surgical Procedures I
Surgical Clinical Practice I
Surgical Procedures II
Surgical Clinical Practice II
Professional Success Preparation
All students must demonstrate successful completion of basic competencies and objectives on the
program’s didactic and laboratory courses in the first semester, and have passed all SUR and BIO courses
with a grade of C or better (SUR110, SUR 111 and BIO 163) before gaining entry into SUR 122 and SUR
123. Before a student is eligible to begin clinical training the student MUST have successfully completed
two video-taped practical examinations with a grade of 80% or better within two attempts and mastered all
44 skills assessments (see Surgical Technology Study Guide). The student will have three attempts at each
skill assessment if needed. Failure to pass the taped lab practical with 80% or better will result in an
automatic “D” for the course of SUR 111, rendering the student ineligible to progress to spring semester.
Unrecognized contaminations constitute automatic failure. Failure to pass the final lab identification in the
fall semester with a minimum of 70% after two attempts will render a grade of “D” and failure to progress
to spring semester.
The Practical exams will be done in the Surgical Technology Skills lab and will build upon each other.
Practical exam #1 will consist of scrubbing and gowning oneself and another, setting up back table, mayo
stand, and initial sponge and instrument counts. Practical exam #2 will include all elements of practical #1
along with prepping, draping and performing as a STSR (Surgical Technologist in the Scrub Role) for an
Umbilical Hernia Repair with the instructor or another student in the surgeon role. This practical will also
include explanation of preference card usage, positioning principles, and demonstrating knowledge of
various equipment, instrumentation and supplies.
Failure to pass SUR 123 with a minimum of 70% will result in the student’s inability to progress to the
spring semester to ensure patient safety. A student’s inability to pass SUR 135 clinical final exam with a
minimum of 70% will result in the student’s inability to graduate from the program. There are no second
attempts allowed on clinical final exams.
Student course grades are available to students at all times via Moodle. If at any time you have
concerns or questions about grades entered, do not hesitate to consult the program chair or course
instructor.
Students are required to complete all surgical procedure guidelines as set forth by AST in the 6 th
edition of the Core Curriculum which is outlined in your Clinical Case Log.
All students are required to sit for the NBSTSA certification examination to be eligible for
graduation on the date set up by the program. Payment must be received no later than early May.
33
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
STUDENT CONFERENCES
Because of the varied demands of the practice of Surgical
Technology, the program requires considerable communication between the
instructors and the students. Feedback comes in the form of grades,
practical exams, clinical instruction, student conferences, text messaging,
and e-mail correspondence. During the clinical phase of the program
weekly post conferences will be held during the co-didactic courses during
the Wednesday sessions. The instructors will make frequent visits to
observe the students in the clinical setting and discuss their progress with
clinical coordinators and clinical preceptors. These post conferences enable
the students to share their learning experiences in a confidential setting with
an instructor there to monitor and facilitate discussion. Daily clinical
instructor progress reports will be provided to students in an anonymous
fashion at the end of every clinical day via e-mail. These will allow for
constant feedback for students to enhance their practice based on instructor
observations and evaluations of the student and his/her peers.
If necessary, individual conferences can be scheduled by either the
instructor or the student during the available office hours of the instructor.
This type of student conference is for a student experiencing academic,
attendance or behavioral difficulties. A disciplinary warning form will be
provided for all conferences. Both the student and instructor should sign the
form. If a student is having clinical difficulty they may be placed on clinical
probation and an action plan for student performance will be developed by
the student with input from the instructor.
34
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College
Surgical Technology Program
Student Disciplinary Warning Form
Date: ____________________________
Instructor: ________________________
Student: __________________________
Semester: _________________________
Your progress at this point in the curriculum is below acceptable standards
in the following area(s):
_____ Poor attendance (missed/tardy ____ classes)
_____ Poor grade, skills, or clinical performance
_____ Missing homework assignments
_____ Lack of preparation for the classroom/lab/clinical environment
_____ Behavioral/Attitudinal issues
_____ Patient Safety Concerns
_____ Other
Please review your student handbook in reference to program outcomes and
criteria, policies and procedures, professional conduct, and attendance, etc.,
for which you have previously signed a Student Training Declaration
expressing thorough knowledge and acceptance of the student handbook.
If the above issue (s) is not resolved following this session,
academic/clinical probation may be instated or dismissal from the program
may result.
It is the wish of ABTCC to see you succeed in this endeavor. Please feel
free to contact us at 254-1921 ext. 892 to discuss your progress. Student
services are available to discuss student concerns as well.
___________________________
Student Signature / Date
_____________________________
Instructor Signature / Date
35
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
CLINICAL COURSE PROBATION FORM
Date:______________
TO:
________________________
FROM: Robin Keith, Program Director
As we discussed, effective ________________ you are being placed on
clinical probation for course _______________________ for the following
reason(s):
_____ Surgical Conscience/Aseptic Technique
_____ Anticipation & Preparation Skills
_____ Professional Behaviors / Communication
_____ Safety Issues
_____ Attendance
_____ Other
36
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
Prescription for correction of the stated deficiencies, formulated by the
student:
Faculty Comments:
Failure to complete the above will constitute clinical failure, i.e. a “D” for
the course and the inability to progress in the program. In addition, please
be aware that completion of the stated objectives does not constitute an
automatic “PASS” for the course.
The faculty is prepared to assist the student in any way possible as he/she
strives to meet the objectives of the Surgical Technology Program. In
addition we will strive to provide open labs with instructors and assistance
from student success advocates in the counseling center.
_____________________________
Student Signature / Date
_______________________
Instructor Signature / Date
37
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
TUITION REFUND POLICY
The student is encouraged to review the current college catalog and/or
ABTCC Student Handbook and Events Calendar for the current tuition
refund policy.
STUDENT COURSE WITHDRAWAL
In order to obtain an official withdrawal or tuition refund, if due,
during the first eight weeks of a semester, a student must complete a
Registration Change Notice form obtained from the Office of Enrollment
Management and return form to the Office of Enrollment Management. The
student will receive a grade of “W” which does not influence the quality
point ratio for the semester. Any student who fails to attend class and does
NOT complete the Registration Change Notice Form will receive a grade of
“U” for that class.
After the twelfth week of the semester, any student who stops
attending class will receive a grade of “U”. Exceptions of the above policy
such as serious illness or job transfer requiring withdrawal from all classes
will be considered on an individual basis. A student who has withdrawn
from a class may no longer attend the class. Before withdrawing from the
class, the student is encouraged to consult with the program faculty. If still
desiring to withdraw, the required forms must be completed. As always,
refer to the current college publications.
DISMISSAL/WITHDRAWAL DUE TO FAILURE OF SUR COURSE
Bear in mind that SUR courses are co-requisite courses. Failure of one
constitutes withdrawal/dismissal from secondary or tertiary co-requisite
SUR courses. For example, failure of the SUR 111 lab practical means the
student must withdraw/be dismissed from SUR 110. Failure of the SUR 123
final clinical exam means the student must withdraw/be dismissed from the
SUR 122 course. Failure of the SUR 135 final clinical exam means the
student must withdraw/be dismissed from the SUR 134 and SUR 137
courses. Re-admission criteria apply at this point. See pages 104-106 of this
handbook for specifics. The Chairperson will advise you prior to any
withdrawals or dismissals from the SUR program.
38
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Several types of financial aid are available for students who
demonstrate financial need and who are maintaining satisfactory progress in
their courses. It is recommended that all students apply for the financial
assistance. Refer to the student events calendar and handbook for more
information. Also contact the Financial Aid Office for any questions about
financial assistance.
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION
1. Meet all College requirements for graduation listed in the College Catalog
found on page 44.
2. Students must meet specific program requirements including:
a. Completion of the Clinical Case Guidelines (See Clinical Case Log)
b. Taking the certification in surgical technology exam through the
National Board on Certification in Surgical Technology and Surgical
Assisting. *Monies will be due in May each year at the beginning of
summer semester.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
All students are responsible for the completion of their academic
program. This will include familiarity with the ABTECH requirements
listed in the catalog for their academic program. This also includes
maintaining the grade point average required, knowing academic standing
and meeting other degree requirements. Instructors will always assist the
student when asked or if the instructor deems assistance to be necessary.
ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY FOR MEETING PROGRAM AND
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS LIES WITH THE STUDENT.
39
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
APPENDICES
40
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
CLINICAL COURSEWORK POLICIES
All Surgical Technology students are expected to:
1.
Wear a Surgical Technology Student nametag while at the clinical
site. Students will NOT be permitted clinical entry for either lab or
clinical without a photo ID name badge.
2.
Wear clean (per clinical site policy) designated college scrub attire
and lab coat to and from the clinical site for each clinical day. Wear
appropriate scrub suits (pants and tops) and lab coats during all
surgical technology program lab courses. The lab coat must be worn
anytime you are leaving the surgical facility department and
removed upon your return (example when going off the unit to
the cafeteria).
3.
Have a pair of shoes for use in the OR only; non-porous/impenetrable
solid shoes are appropriate. Neither open-toed shoes nor non-heeled
clogs are permitted.
4.
Wear protective eyewear on all surgical procedures.
5.
Double glove during clinical participation.
6.
Wear hospital issue scrub attire with the scrub top and scrub pant
strings tucked in.
7.
Adhere to strict aseptic technique.
8.
Adhere to all clinical site policies and procedures based on clinical
site mandatory education modules that are performed prior to clinical
entry.
9.
Have short, unpolished, non-artificial fingernails or tips.
10.
Have hair completely secured, tucked, and covered in such a manner
that prohibits extension beyond surgical head gear per clinical site
policies. Hair must be clean.
41
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
11.
Have good personal hygiene. This is mandatory for the surgical
technologist. The student will NOT wear scented lotions, colognes or
perfumes to prevent patient or staff allergic reactions.
12.
Have no open sores, breaks, or rashes on the skin of your hands,
forearms or upper arms.
13.
Wear no facial or visible jewelry of any kind including but not limited
to: earrings, rings, necklaces, or bracelets. These are clinical site
policies deemed to prevent surgical site infections hence protect the
patient.
14.
As always, students are required to follow and maintain the dress and
grooming standard policies as set by the affiliating clinical sites based
on AST and AORN recommended practices. Failure to comply with
these requirements may result in the student’s forfeiture of clinical
training for that specific day. Any violation of clinical site standards
will be referred to the program director or clinical coordinator for
appropriate action.
42
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
CLINICAL PRACTICE MONITORING
Unsafe clinical practice shall be deemed to be behaviors demonstrated by the student, which
threaten or violate the physical, biological or emotional safety of the patient assigned to her/his
care.
Unprofessional practice shall be deemed to be behaviors demonstrated by the student which are:


Inappropriate toward the instructor, preceptor, patient, or peer
Which reflect negatively upon the Surgical Technology program or Asheville-Buncombe Technical
Community College
The college will provide, upon request, to a clinical facility, assurance that each student has
demonstrated competency as well as a passing grade point in his/her didactic training prior to
clinical facility entry.
No student will be denied admission or training due to race, age, religion, sex or national origin.
All students are required to notify the college, program director and program clinical coordinator of
any changes of name, address or telephone number so that all records may be kept current.
Any student guilty of any infraction of the Code of Conduct will be counseled. Each infraction will
be handled according to the seriousness of the situation and according to the current, published
policies in the Student Catalog.
If a student is asked to be removed from a clinical site by a clinical facility an attempt will be
made to place the student in a second clinical setting. Due to clinical slot restrictions, this may
not be possible. If relocation cannot occur, the student will be dismissed from the program.
The inability to complete clinical course case requirements results in a student’s inability to
graduate from the program.
The clinical coordinator and chairperson have the authority and power to remove from
the assigned clinical facility any student who in the opinion of the clinical instructors,
violates or does not fully comply with the program or clinical facility’s rules, policies,
procedures, regulations and/or routines, who is guilty of misconduct or negligence, or is
deemed unsafe to the patient or peri-operative team. See ABTECH Code of Conduct.
Clinical Instructors of Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College provide daily
clinical reports and routine comprehensive evaluations of students’ clinical performance. This
feedback will be viewed collectively by the clinical coordinator and chairperson to determine
continued patient safety and student clinical progress. If it is determined that a student is
failing to progress in clinical skills, failing to engage or presenting themselves as a safety
hazard to patients receiving surgical interventions, the clinical coordinator and chairperson
will meet with the student to determine what needs to be done to correct the issue (s). If after
counseling and working with the student in a lab remedial session, the student’s issues are not
resolved, the student will be dismissed from the program.
43
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
STUDENT CLINICAL WORK POLICY
The program faculty neither encourages nor discourages students from
working in clinical or surgical facilities, but reminds the student of
the following conditions:
1) The student should be committed to the completion of the surgical
technology program.
2) Part time or full-time employment at a clinical affiliate is not a part of the
educational program. This employment will not be considered an excuse for
a student’s failure to comply with program expectations.
3) The student will not be excused to leave clinic early to allow them
to clock-in at a clinical affiliate as an employee of that affiliate.
4) At no time during surgical technology program clinical hours may a
student receive financial compensation from a clinical institution for
performing surgical technology program related clinical training.
5) The student will not receive credit for surgical cases or clinical
hours during the time they are on the payroll for a clinical affiliate.
6) The student will not be allowed to perform clinical examinations
for competency or proficiency during the time they are on the payroll
for a clinical affiliate.
7) The student will not be covered under the ABTECH liability insurance
policy when working as a part time or full-time employee of a clinical
affiliate.
8) Surgical Technology students will be supervised by a clinical
setting preceptor at all times during clinical course rotations and will not be
substituted in place of staff by the clinical agency under any circumstances.
9) Any student who violates the student work policy will be
investigated and may be dismissed from the program.
44
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
AB-TECH
SURGICAL
TECHNOLOGY
PROGRAM
CASE LOG
BOOK
Property of: _____________________
Program year(s): ___________________
45
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
AST SURGICAL ROTATION CASE REQUIREMENTS
Surgical Specialty





















General Surgery
Specialty Surgery
Cardio-thoracic (CT)
Ear/Nose/Throat (ENT)
Eye
Genitourinary (GU)
Neurosurgical (Neuro)
Obstetrics/Gynecologic (OBGYN)
Oral-Maxillofacial (OM)
Orthopedics (Ortho)
Peripheral Vascular (PV)
Plastics/Reconstructive (PR)
Procurement/Transplant
Total # Cases
Required
Minimum # First
Scrub Cases
Required
30²
20²
Maximum # of
Second Scrub
Cases That Can
Be Applied
Towards 120
Cases
10
90³
60³
30
Diagnostic Endoscopy
Bronchoscopy
Colonoscopy
Cystoscopy
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
(EGD)
Endoscopic retrograde
cholangiopancreatography
(ERCP)
Esophagoscopy
Laryngoscopy
Panendoscpy
Sinoscopy
Ureteroscopy
10 diagnostic
endoscopy cases
may be applied
toward the
second scrub
cases.⁵
Labor & Delivery
(program does not typically go to
the
L & D unit)
Totals
120¹. ⁷
80
5 vaginal delivery
cases may be
applied toward
the second scrub
cases.⁵
40
AST Core Curriculum Surgical Technology 6th edition page 173
46
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
EXPLANATION OF CASE REQUIREMENTS
1. “The total number of cases the student must complete is 120.
2. Students are required to complete 30 cases in General Surgery. Twenty of the cases
must be in the First Scrub Role.
3. Students are required to complete 90 cases in various surgical specialties. Sixty of the
cases must be in the First Scrub Role and evenly distributed between a minimum of 5
surgical specialties. However, 15 is the maximum number of cases that can be counted in
any one surgical specialty.
4. The surgical technology program is required to verify through the surgical rotation
documentation the students’ progression in First and Second Scrubbing surgical
procedures of increased complexity as he/she moves towards entry-level graduate
abilities.
5. Diagnostic endoscopy cases and vaginal delivery cases are not mandatory. Up to 10
diagnostic endoscopic cases and 5 vaginal delivery cases can be counted towards
maximum number of Second Scrub Role cases.
6. Observation cases must be documented, but do not count towards the 120 required
cases.
7. Counting Cases

Cases will be counted according to surgical specialty. Examples:
 Trauma patient requires a splenectomy and repair of a Le Fort I fracture. Two
cases can be counted and documented since the splenectomy is general surgery
specialty and the repair of the Le Fort I is oral-maxillo-facial surgical specialty.
 Patient requires a breast biopsy followed by a mastectomy. It is one pathology,
breast cancer and the specialty is general surgery; therefore it is counted and
documented as one procedure-one case.”
AST Core Curriculum Surgical Technology 6th edition page 174
47
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
“FIRST SCRUB ROLE” (FSR)
“The student surgical technologist shall perform the following duties during any given
surgical procedure with proficiency. The following list is provided to identify the items
that must be completed in order to document a case in the first scrub role. A student not
meeting the five criteria below cannot count the case in the first scrub role and the case
must be documented in the second scrub role or observation role.”





“Verify supplies and equipment needed for the surgical procedure
Set up the sterile field with instruments, supplies, equipment and medications/solutions
needed for the procedure
Perform counts with the circulator prior to the procedure and before the incision is
closed
Pass instruments and supplies to the sterile surgical team members during the
procedure
Maintain sterile technique as measured by recognized breaks in technique and
demonstrate knowledge of how to correct with appropriate technique”
“SECOND SCRUB ROLE” (SSR)
“The second scrub role is defined as the student who is at the sterile field who has not met all
criteria for the first scrub role, but actively participates in the surgical procedure in its entirety by
completing any of the following:”





“Sponging
Suctioning
Cutting suture
Holding retractors
Manipulating endoscopic camera”
“OBSERVATION ROLE” (OR)
“The observation role is defined as the student who is in the operating room performing
roles that do not meet the criteria for the first or second scrub role. These observation
cases are not to be included in the required case count, but must be documented by the
program.”
AST Core Curriculum for Surgical Technology 6th edition page 175
48
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
AST/ARC-STSA/NBSTSA STANDARDS
*Case totals of less than 120 within the parameters set by AST’s Core Curriculum 6th
edition will result in the student’s inability to graduate from this program. This is the
requirement of our program accreditation overseer, ARC-STSA, which upholds the
standards set by AST’s Core Curriculum 6th edition. NBSTSA may randomly select
certification exam applicants to “audit” hence requiring validation of these case numbers
for a graduate to be eligible to sit for the required national certification exam. These
three organizations work closely together in ensuring graduates of CAAHEP accredited
surgical technology programs are adequately prepared as entry level surgical
technologists. Validation of your surgical cases with an instructor is required via your
case logs. These must be accurate and complete. Failure to comply with this standard will
result in an automatic “D” in this course. Official documentation of your cases is required
to maintain CAAHEP programmatic accreditation compliance. See ABTECH Surgical
Technology Program Daily Case Log (is a separate document). How to complete the
weekly case logs will be explained in detail in class prior to clinical entry. The student
will use the list of various surgical procedures provided in the information to follow to
identify their cases. All information must be completed. Abbreviations are not acceptable
in case log completion unless the case has been previously defined. This is only
applicable per weekly log and not on consecutive logs. For example, Laparoscopic
Cholecystectomy (Lap Chole) might be entered initially verbatim and then subsequently
using the abbreviated form. Another example is Dilation and Curettage (D & C). Enter as
previously indicated and site additional D & Cs cases in the abbreviated form. If a case
type takes up more than one line, do not duplicate the information that follows in the
columns to the right of this. You can only count one case one time. Use “{“ or “[“ to
connect two or more lines in a surgical procedure description on the far left outside the
row you are writing the procedure in. Some patients may have more than one procedure.
For example Hysteroscopy/D & C is one case because there is only one access for both.
There are not two separate incisions. Consult instructor for further clarification should
you encounter such a situation to determine whether a singular patient’s multiple
procedures can be divided up on the form into more than one. There must be clear
delineation and separate set-ups for that to occur.
49
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
MAY COUNT UP TO 10 TOTAL TOWARDS SECOND SCRUB ROLE (SSR)
ONLY
ENDOSCOPIC SURGICAL PROCEDURES











Bronchoscopy
Colonoscopy
Cystoscopy
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatoscopy (ERCP)
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
Esophagoscopy
Laryngoscopy
Sinoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Panendoscopy (laryngoscopy/bronchoscopy/esophagoscopy)
Ureteroscopy
50
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
GENERAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Students must participate in 30 general surgery procedures total. Of the 30, 20 must be
performed in the First Scrub Role and 10 maximum may be performed in the Second
Scrub Role to apply towards the 120 case totals.
51
ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK
GENERAL SURGERY PROCEDURES (GEN)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Anal Sphincterotomy
Hemorrhoidectomy
Anoplasty
Breast Biopsy with Needle
Localization
Breast Lumpectomy with Sentinel
Node Biopsy
Excision of Lipoma/Mass
Femoral Herniorrhaphy
Anal Fissure/Fistula Repair
Incision and Drainage of Abscess
(I&D)
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Billroth I
Billroth II
Cholecystoduodenostomy
Cholecystojejunostomy
Choledochoduodenostomy
Choledochojejunostomy
Colectomy (bowel resection)
Colon resection for Hirschsprung’s disease-pediatric
Common Bile Duct Exploration (CBDE)
Derotation of volvulus-pediatric
Endoscopic inguinal herniorraphy
Excision of Zenker’s Diverticulum
Exploratory Laparotomy/laparoscopy
Gastrectomy
Gastroschisis repair (pediatric)
Gastrostomy
Ileostomy
Laparoscopic appendectomy
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication
Liver Resection
Mastectomy with axillary node dissection
Omphalocele repair (pedicatric)
Open Cholecystectomy with cholangiography
52
Incisional Herniorrhaphy
Inguinal Herniorrhaphy
Insertion of infusion catheters/ports
(Port-a-cath, Broviac,etc.)
Liver Biopsy
Muscle Biopsy
Open Appendectomy
Pilonidal Cystectomy
Rectal Polypectomy
Spigelian Herniorrhaphy
Umbilical Herniorrhaphy
Ventral Herniorrhaphy
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Organ Procurement
Pyloromyotomy (pediatric)
Reduction of intussusception (pediatric)
Roux-en-Y (bariatric surgery)
Small Bowel Resection
Splenectomy
Vagotomy/pyloroplasty
LEVEL III.
o
o
o
o
o
o
Abdominoperineal Resection (A & P Repair)
(Miles Resection)
Esophagectomy
Imperforate Anus Repair
Liver Transplant
Tracheoesophageal Fistula Repair
Whipple Procedure
53
SPECIALTY SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Cardiothoracic
Genitourinary
Neurosurgical
Obstetrics/Gynecological
Ophthalmic (Eye)
Oral/Maxillo-facial
Orthopedics
Otorhinolaryngological (ENT)
Peripheral Vascular
Plastics/Reconstructive
Procurement/Transplant
Students must participate in a minimum of 90 surgical specialty procedures.
Of the 90, 60 must be performed in the First Scrub Role and 30 more
maximum can be performed in the Second Scrub Role to apply towards the
120 case totals.
54
CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY PROCEDURES (CV)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
Pace maker battery change
Scalene Node Biopsy
Thoracostomy (chest tube insertion)
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Cervical Rib Resection
Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus
(PDA)
Coronary Angioplasty
Decortication of the lung
(membrane peel)
Diaphragmatic herniorraphy
(pediatric)
Lobectomy
Lung Biopsy
Lung Volume Reduction Procedure
Mediastinoscopy
Pacemaker or AICD Insertion
Pectus Excavatum Repair
Pericardectomy
Pericardial Window
Thoracoplasty
Thoracoscopy (wedge biopsy or talc pleurodesis)
Thoracotomy (pulmonary wedge resection)
Thymectomy
LEVEL III
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Annuloplasty
Aortic Arch Aneurysm Repair
Aortic/Mitral Valve Repair/Replacement
Atrial/Ventricular Septal Defect Repair
Batista Procedure
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG)
DOR (Ventricular Aneurysmectomy)
Heart Transplantation
Lung Transplantation
MID-CABG
Mitral Valve Commisureotomy
Pneumonectomy
55
o
o
o
o
Repair of Coarctation of the Aorta
Tetrology of Fallot Repair
Ventricular Aneurysm Repair
Ventricular Assistive Device (VAD) insertion
GENITOURINARY SURGERY PROCEDURES (GU)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Circumcision
Hydrocelectomy
Marshall Marchetti Kranz procedure
Meatoplasty
Orchidectomy
Orchiopexy/orchidopexy
Transurethral resection of prostate (TURP)
TVT (transvaginal tape)/pubovaginal
sling
Urethral meatotomy
Varicocelectomy
Vasectomy
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Chordee repair
Epispadias repair
Extrophy of the bladder repair
Hypospadias repair
Insertion of penile implant
Nephroscopy
LEVEL III.
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Adrenalectomy
Cystectomy w/Creation of Ileal Cnduit
Kidney Transplant
Nephrectomy
Perineal Prostatectomy
Retropubic Prostatectomy
Suprapubic Prostatectomy
Wilms’ Tumor Excision
56
Ureteral reimplanation
Ureteropyelolithotomy
Urethrovesical angle repositioning
Vasovasostomy
Insertion Artificial Urinary Sphincter
Pyeloplasty
NEUROSURGICAL PROCEDURES (NEURO)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
Carpal Tunnel Release
Ulnar Nerve Transposition
Temporal Artery Biopsy
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
Chordotomy
Cranioplasty
Lumbar Laminectomy (Neuro doc)
Rhizotomy
Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt Placement
LEVEL III
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Acoustic Neuroma Resection
Anterior Thoracic/Lumbar Discectomy
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) Repair
Cervical Discectomy
Craniosynostosis Repair
Craniotomy (Hematoma evacuation)
Craniotomy (Tumor excision)
Craniotomy (Aneurysm repair)
Lumbar Discoscopy
Myelomeningecele
Posterior Fossa Craniectomy
Spinal Fixation/Fusion
Spinal Tumor Excision
Stereotactic Procedures
Transphenoidal Hypophysectomy
Ventriculoscopy
OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGICAL SURGERY PROCEDURES (GYN)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
o
o
o
Ablation of condylomata
(venereal wart
Anterior &/or Posterior
Colporrhaphy/Repair
Bartholin cystectomy
Cerclage (Shirodkar)
Cervical Cone Biopsy
Diagnostic Laparotomy
57
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Dilation & Curettage (D&C)
Dilation & Evacuation (D&E)
Episiotomy repair
Hysteroscopy
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)
Placement of Radiation therapy device
Uterine balloon therapy/ablation
Vaginoplasty
Laparoscopic or Open Tubal Ligation
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Cesarean Section (C-section)
Ectopic pregnancy resolution
Endometrial ablation
Myomectomy
Oopherectomy
Operative Laparoscopy
Sapingectomy
Total Abdominal Hysterectomy (TAH)
Vaginal Hysterectomy
LEVEL III.
o
o
o
o
Laparoscopic Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy (LAVH)
Micro-tubal Reanastamosis
Vulvectomy
Weirtheim Procedure (Pelvic Exenteration)
OPHTHALMIC SURGERY PROCEDURES (EYE)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
o
o
o
Chalazion excision
Entropian/Ectropian repair
Enucleation
Lacrimal Duct Probing
Pterygium excision
Recession & Resection (R&R)
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
Anterior Vitrectomy
Cataract extraction (intracapsular/extracapsular/phacoemulsification)
Dacryocystorhinostomy
Evisceration
58
o
o
o
o
o
o
Exenteration
Iridectomy
Iridotomy
Kertoplasty (corneal transplant)
Scleral Buckle
Trabeculoplasty/placement of drainage shunt)
LEVEL III
o
Vitrectomy
ORAL MAXILLO-FACIAL SURGERY PROCEDURES (OM)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
o
Arch Bar Application
Dental (tooth/teeth) Extraction
Dental Implants
Odontectomy
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
Cleft Lip/Palate Repair
LeFort I
LeFort II
Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) Orbital Fracture
ORIF Maxillary/Mandibular Fracture
Zygomatic Fracture Management
LEVEL III
o
o
o
Craniofacial Reconstruction
LeFort III
Orthognathic Procedure
59
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY PROCEDURES (ORTHO)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Achilles tendon repair
Acromioplasty
De Quervain’s contracture release
Dupuytren’s contracture release
Ganglion Cystectomy
Lower/Upper extremity amputation
(BKA/AKA)
Tenorrhaphy (tendon repair)
Ulnar nerve transposition
Kyphoplasty
Removal External Fixator
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Bankart procedure
Bipolar hip replacement
Bristow Procedure
Bunionectomy with hammer toe correction
Femoral Rodding (IM Nail)
Knee Arthoscopy
Lumbar Laminectomy (orthopod)
Metacarpal phalangeal joint (MPJ) arthroplasty
Open reduction internal fixation
(ORIF)
Putti Platte procedure
Shoulder arthroscopy
Triple arthrodesis
Repair Rotator Cuff
Wrist/Ankle/Elbow arthroscopy
Hip Arthroscopy
Vertebroplasty
LEVEL III.
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction
Digit/Limb Reattachment
ORIF Pelvic Fracture
Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Total Elbow Arthroplasty
Total Hip Arthroplasty
Total Knee Arthroplasty
Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
60
OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGICAL SURGERY PROCEDURES (ENT)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
Glossectomy
Myringotomy (BMT)
Nasal Antrostomy
Nasal Polypectomy
Salivary Duct Stone Excision/sialolithotomy
Septoplasty
Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A)
Turbinectomy
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
Submucous Resection of Turbinates
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Caldwell-Luc
Choanal atresia
Mandibulectomy
Mastoidectomy
Operative sinuscopy
Parathyroidectomy
Parotidectomy
Sphenoidectomy
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopy
Thyroidectomy
Tracheotomy/tracheostomy
Typanoplasty I
Tympanoplasty II
LEVEL III
o
o
o
Laryngectomy
Radical Neck Dissection
Stapedectomy
61
PERIPHERAL VASCULAR SURGERY PROCEDURES (PV)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
Vein Ligation/Stripping
Radiofrequency Venous Ablation
Vas Cath/Hemocath Insertion
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Angioplasty
Angioscopy
Arteriovenous (AV) fistula/shunt creation/insertion
Axillofemoral Bypass Graft
Carotid Endarterectomy
Embolectomy
Femoral Femoral Bypass Graft
Femoropopliteal Bypass Graft
Femorotibial Bypass Graft
Greenfield Filter Shunt Insertion
Popliteal in-situ Graft
LEVEL III
o
o
o
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysmectomy with graft insertion (AAA Repair)
Aorto-femoral Bypass Graft
Aorto-iliac Bypass Graft
PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY PROCEDURES (PR)
LEVEL I
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Blepharoplasty
Breast Augmentation (Implants)
Cheiloplasty
Dermabrasion
Excision nevus/basal cell
carcinoma/squamous cell carcinoma
Mastopexy
Mentoplasty
Otoplasty
Rhinoplasty
Scar Revision
Suction lipectomy (liposuction)
62
LEVEL II
o
o
o
o
o
o
Abdominoplasty
Breast reconstruction
Breast Reduction
Palatoplasty
Rhytidectomy (facelift)
Skin Graft (FTSG) or (STSG)
LEVEL III
o
o
o
Microvascular Pedical Graft
Syndactyly Repair/Release
Transverse Rectus Abdominus Musculocutaneous (TRAM) Flap
63
SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY CODE OF CLINICAL CONDUCT
All students are expected to:
1.
Report to the Clinical Assignment in an alert condition adhering to proper
clock in-clock-out procedures.
2.
Report to the Clinical Assignment in the proper uniform and report to the
designated clinical instructor.
3.
Maintain a professional attitude when in the presence of their peers,
instructors, clinical site staff, physicians, and patients.
4.
Refrain from divulging personal information about yourself to clinical
facilities.
5.
Park in designated parking areas for clinical sites.
6.
To adhere to all rules, regulations, procedures and policies of the affiliating
hospitals or medical centers during their periods of clinical/laboratory
instruction and maintain the role of the surgical technology student.
7.
Understand that the program clinical coordinator and chairperson have the
authority and power to remove from the clinical facility any student who in
the opinion of the clinical instructors violates clinical site policies or
program standards or jeopardizes patient or peri-operative team safety.
8.
Understand that the clinical site has the authority and power to refuse or
remove from their facility any student who in the opinion of said clinical site
violates or does not fully comply with any of said clinical facility’s rules,
policies, procedures, regulations and/or routines or who is guilty of
misconduct or negligence.
9.
Accept assignments as made by the Clinical Instructor or Clinical Facility
Supervisor.
10.
Stay with your assigned patient and NEVER abandon them or leave them
unattended.
64
ABTECH CLINICAL SITE STUDENT POLICIES
1. You must abide by the clinical institutional policies. Part of ensuring this is that you demonstrate
or provide me with documentation from your clinical site that you have completed all required
educational documentation for the current year. All required immunizations must be on file with
me as well. These include: current PPD (within last year), Varicella, MMR x 2, Tetanus, and
Hepatitis B. All must be completed and on file with the program chairperson prior to your
clinical beginning.
2. As an ABTECH surgical technology student, you must:
 Double glove in the first or second scrub role. This is not negotiable. This is our policy and the
only way you will be covered by our liability insurance should you sustain a needle-stick or
similar type injury while in the scrub role.
 Wear protective eyewear/goggles in the first or second scrub role. This is not negotiable. This is
our policy and the only way you will be covered by our liability insurance should you sustain a
needle-stick or similar type injury while in the scrub role.
 Do not leave sharps on the mayo stand. This is to protect you and other sterile team members
from injury.
 Tuck in both your shirt and scrub pant strings. This is not negotiable. Is a potential liability issue
should you contaminate.
 Secure and tuck all loose hair into your scrub cap. This is not negotiable. Is a potential liability
issue should you contaminate.
 Wear a lab coat anytime you enter or exit the clinical operating room department. It must be
buttoned up when you enter or exit the department. This is hospital policy as well as ABTECH
policy.
 Wear a surgical mask at ALL times while in the restricted area regardless of the situation (patient
case completed or room empty)
 Wear shoe covers while in the operating room’s semi-restricted or restricted areas.
 Remove shoe covers anytime you exit the clinical operating room department.
 Do not wear jewelry, nail polish, artificial nails, or cologne. This is a potential liability issue
should you introduce infection or an asthma attack to a patient.
 Wear a name tag at all times. This is a security issue.
 Not carry a cell phone or pager unless it is on silent or off.
 Abide by all clinical site affiliate policies, procedures, regulations, and routines.
 Abstain from misconduct or negligent behavior.
65
CLINICAL AND LAB ACTIVITY INFORMATION
Job Title:
Department:
Student
Surgical Technology
JOB
REQUIREMENTS
Activity: (on back)
(LIST # OF LBS)
Lifting
Static Knuckle height
Bench height
Ankle height
Shoulder height
Dynamic Bench
height
To the Left
From the Center
To the Right
Carrying
Cart height Pushing
Pulling
Shoulder height
Pushing
OCCASIONAL
FREQUENT
CONSTANT

50+
50+
50+
50+
50+
50+
50+
50+




Pulling
List frequency only:
Sitting
*Standing / Walking
Climbing Stairs
Ladder
Balance (type: *high
deg)
Stooping
Kneeling
Crouching
Crawling
Reaching Forward
Overhead
Bended reach
Other:
Confined space
maneuverability
*Self-awareness














66
*Handling
Fingering High deg.
*Feeling
*Talking
Hearing (type:
Normal)
*Seeing: Near,
Distant, Color
Discernment
Reading
Calculating
Compiling
Depth Perception












67
Page 2
Job Title:
Department:
Student
Surgical Technology
Lifting Frequencies:
Other Activities:
Occasional:
1 lift every 30 minutes
Occasional: 0 - 33% ( 0-20 min. per hour)
Frequent:
1 lift every 2 minutes
Frequent: 34 - 66% (21-40 min. per hour)
Constant:
1 lift every 15 seconds
Constant: 67 - 100% (41-60 min. per hour)
Activity:
-Lift, carry and balance in excess of 50 pounds (over 100 pounds with assistance)
-Stand in one place for greater than eight hours without relief
-Being able to navigate safely in confined spaces without being compromising
Sterility or patient safety
- Ability to multi-task while maintaining an awareness of the entire environment
surrounding you as well as the patient for whom you are responsible for
-Heightened sense of self-awareness
Handling: -Gross and fine motor skills and dexterity
-Ability to move fingers and manipulate small objects rapidly and quickly
-Able to keep hands in a steady position
-React quickly to verbal requests and hand signals
Communication:
-Speak clearly, respond quickly and appropriately, refrain from participating in
inappropriate conversations, refrain from divulging personal information
Behavior: -Ability to follow directions with minimal instructions
-Ability to maintain composure and focus in stressful situations and when dealing
with difficult fellow surgical team members
-Able to accept constructive criticism without becoming defensive
-Able to work as a team member
-Able to maintain confidentiality
-Maintain personal dignity by dressing conservatively
-Well rested for each day
-Reliable
Sight:
-Ability to read fine print on labels, visualize tiny needles finer than an eyelash to
load onto needle-holders, and visualize colors of medications/drug vials.
Temperature:
-Able to handle extreme temperatures both cold and hot (without profuse sweating)
68
CLINICAL AND LAB WORK ENVIRONMENT INFORMATION
Job Title:
Student
Department: Surgical Technology
Never
Occasional
Frequent
Constant

Indoors
Outdoors

Temperature:
Cold


Hot
Moderate

Constant

Humid / Damp

Dust


Hazardous Chemicals
Steps, Ramps, Stairs

Slippery or Uneven
Walked Surfaces

Irregular Work Hours

Departmental Mobility
Barriers

Hazardous Working
Conditions

Lifting Frequencies:
Occasional: 1 lift every 30 minutes
min. per hour)
Frequent:
1 lift every 2 minutes
min. per hour)
Constant:
1 lift every 15 seconds
min. per hour)
Other Activities:
Occasional:
0 - 33% ( 0-20
Frequent:
34 - 66% (21-40
Constant:
67 - 100% (41-60
69
CLINICAL AND LAB WORK PLACE INTERACTIONS
Job Title: Student
Department: Surgical Technology
Never
Occasional
Frequent
Communicating

Interpreting

Constant

Investigating

Explaining

Planning
Supervising


Teamwork
Work Controlled
by
Supervisor
(Preceptor)
Day - to - day
Supervision by
(Instructor)


Lifting Frequencies:
Other Activities:
Occasional: 1 lift every 30 minutes
min. per hour)
Frequent:
1 lift every 2 minutes
min. per hour)
Constant:
1 lift every 15 seconds
min. per hour)
I,
Occasional:
0 - 33% ( 0-20
Frequent:
34 - 66% (21-40
Constant:
67 - 100% (41-60
as a prospective student, have read and understand
(Please Print)
the job description, job activity, and physical activity information as it relates to clinical and lab
activity.
Signed:
Date:
Witness:
Title:
70
DISCRIMINATION PROHIBITED
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College does not discriminate on the
basis of sex, race, color, national origin, age, disability or religion, in the
educational programs or activities, which it operates. The college is required by
Title IX of the Educational Amendment of 1972 not to discriminate on the basis of
sex, and under other Federal Legislation the College will not discriminate on the
basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or religion. The requirement
not to discriminate in educational programs and activities extends to employment
in the College and to admission to its programs.
INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
Students with disabilities (as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act of
1990, ADA) wishing to make a request for reasonable accommodation, auxiliary
communication aids or services, materials in alternative accessible formats should
contact the ADA coordinator at EXT 141. Students who wish to file a complaint
of alleged discrimination on the basis of disability should contact the ADA
Coordinator at EXT. 141. For more information regarding disabilities view our
Web site: www.abtech.edu.
*SEE PREVIOUS PAGES FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS OF THIS JOB
71
Asheville-Buncombe
Technical
Community College
Bloodborne Pathogens
Exposure Control Plan
For A-B Tech
Students
Updated: July 2007
72
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN
FOR ABTCC STUDENTS
I.
PURPOSE
This Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan for students has been formulated by
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (hereinafter “A-B Tech” or "College") and
is adopted pursuant to the Communicable Disease Policy, Policy No. 1.36. The purposes are to:
(1) implement practices that will limit student and patient exposure to blood and other potentially
infectious body fluids and materials that may transmit bloodborne pathogens and lead to disease
or death; and (2) implement procedures to be followed by A-B Tech students training in a
clinical setting.
II.
SCOPE
All A-B Tech students, as defined in Section III.T. below, are covered by this policy. This
policy is particularly aimed at minimizing the risk to students and those they treat in the clinical
setting of acquiring Hepatitis B, HIV, or other communicable diseases.
III.
DEFINITIONS
A.
BLOOD - Human blood, human blood components and products made from
human blood.
B.
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS - Pathogenic microorganisms present in human
blood that can cause disease and death in humans, including but not limited to
hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
C.
CONTAMINATED - The presence or the reasonably anticipated presence of
blood or other potentially infectious materials on an item or surface.
D.
CONTAMINATED SHARPS - Any contaminated object that can penetrate the
skin including, but not limited to, needles, scalpels, broken glass, broken
Capillary tubes, and exposed ends of dental wires.
E.
DECONTAMINATION - The use of physical or chemical means to remove,
inactivate, or destroy bloodborne pathogens on a surface or item to the point
where they are no longer capable of transmitting infectious particles and the
surface or item is rendered safe for handling, use, or disposal.
F.
ENGINEERING CONTROLS - Controls (e.g., sharps disposal containers, selfsheathing needles, safer medical devices, such as sharps with engineered sharps
injury protections and needleless systems) that isolate or remove the bloodborne
pathogens hazard from the workplace.
73
G.
EXPOSURE INCIDENT - Exposure means a specific eye, mouth, other mucous
membrane, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially
infectious materials that results from the performance of a student’s duties in the
course of her/his studies at A-B Tech.
H.
HANDWASHING FACILITIES - Facilities providing an adequate supply of
running potable water, soap and single use towels or hot air drying machines.
I.
HBV - Hepatitis B virus.
J.
HIV - Human Immunodeficiency Virus. The virus that causes AIDS (Acquired
Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
K.
LICENSED HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL - A person whose legally
permitted scope of practice allows him or her to independently perform the
activities required for Hepatitis B Vaccination and Post-Exposure Evaluation and
Follow-Up as described in this Plan.
L.
NEEDLELESS SYSTEMS - Needleless systems means a device that does not
use needles for: (1) the collection of bodily fluids or control of body fluids after
initial venous or arterial access is established; (2) the administration of medication
or fluid; or (3) any other procedure involving the potential for occupational
exposure to bloodborne pathogens due to percutaneous injuries from
contaminated sharps.
M.
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE - Any reasonably anticipated skin, eye,
mucous membrane or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious
materials that may result from the performance of a student’s duties in the course
of her/his studies at A-B Tech. This definition excludes incidental exposures that
may take place on the job and that are neither reasonably nor routinely expected
and that the worker is not required to incur in the normal course of employment.
In addition, this definition excludes “Good Samaritan Acts,” defined as those acts
where a student renders assistance to an accident victim.
N.
OTHER POTENTIALLY INFECTIOUS MATERIALS - Other potentially
infectious materials means: (1) The following human body fluids: semen, vaginal
secretions, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid,
peritoneal fluid, amniotic fluid, saliva in dental procedures, any body fluid that is
visibly contaminated with blood, and all body fluids in situations where it is
difficult or impossible to differentiate between body fluids; (2) Any unfixed tissue
or organ (other than intact skin) from a human (living or dead); and (3) HIVcontaining cell or tissue cultures, organ cultures, and HIV - or HIV-containing
culture medium or other solutions; and blood, organs, and other tissues from
experimental animals infected with HIV or HBV.
O.
PARENTERAL - Piercing mucous membranes or the skin barrier through such
events as needlesticks, human bites, cuts, and abrasions.
74
IV.
P.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - Specialized clothing or
equipment such as gloves, masks, goggles, or disposable gowns worn by a student
for protection against a hazard. General work clothes (e.g., uniforms, pants, shirts
or blouses) not intended to function as protection against a hazard are not
considered to be personal protective equipment. Personal protective equipment
will be considered “appropriate” only if it does not permit blood or other
potentially infectious materials to pass through or reach the student’s work
clothes, street clothes, undergarments, skin, eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes
under normal conditions of use and for the duration of time that the protective
equipment will be used.
Q.
REGULATED WASTE - Liquid or semi-liquid blood or other potentially
infectious materials; contaminated items that would release blood or other
potentially infectious materials in a liquid or semi-liquid state if compressed;
items that are caked with dried blood or other potentially infectious materials and
are capable of releasing these materials during handling; contaminated sharps; and
pathological and microbiological wastes containing blood or other potentially
infectious materials.
R.
SHARPS WITH ENGINEERED SHARPS INJURY PROTECTIONS - A
non needle sharp or a needle device used for withdrawing body fluids, accessing a
vein or artery, or administering medications or other fluids, with a built-in safety
feature or mechanism that effectively reduces the risk of an exposure incident.
S.
SOURCE INDIVIDUAL - Any individual, living or dead, whose blood or other
potentially infectious materials may be a source of occupational exposure to the
student.
T.
STUDENTS - All A-B Tech students who regularly come in contact with blood
or other potentially infectious materials during the course of their studies at A-B
Tech, whether full-time or part-time.
U.
STANDARD PRECAUTIONS - An approach to infection control. According to
the concept of Standard Precautions, all human body fluids and substances are to
be treated as if known to be infectious.
V.
WORK PRACTICE CONTROLS - Controls that reduce the likelihood of
exposure by altering the manner in which a task is performed (e.g., requiring that
broken glass be picked up with tongs or dust pan and brush rather than by hand
and prohibiting recapping of needles by a two-handed technique).
HEPATITIS B VACCINATION
A.
The Vaccination series is available to all students participating in clinical
programs at the employee/clinical student rate at the Buncombe County Health
Department. All students receiving the vaccine shall execute the Hepatitis B
Vaccine Acceptance Form.
75
V.
B.
Any student may decline the Hepatitis B vaccine by signing the Hepatitis Vaccine
Declination Form.
C.
The Hepatitis B vaccination is not required by a student who has previously
received a Hepatitis B vaccination series and had an antibody testing revealing
that he or she is immune, or for whom the vaccine is inadvisable for medical
reasons.
D.
The Hepatitis B Vaccine must be commenced or completed or a declination
signed prior to the commencement of clinical laboratory activities. A student
who chooses not to receive the vaccine and who fails to sign the Declination
Form and does not fall within the scope of Paragraph C (above) will not be
permitted to fulfill the clinical requirements associated with her/his course of
study.
CURRENTLY INFECTED STUDENTS AND APPLICANTS
To protect the safety of A-B Tech students and those they come in contact with during clinical
training, the following policies and procedures will apply to any student, or an applicant for an
Allied Health program, who has tested positive for HBV, HIV, or another communicable
disease:
A.
The student or applicant must inform his/her clinical instructor or the department
head of her/his communicable disease status, which may affect his/her ability to
provide safe clinical care.
B.
A currently enrolled student will be individually assessed by his/her personal
physician at his/her own expense to determine eligibility for continuation in the
program, and the following criteria will be used to evaluate the student’s
eligibility for continuation:
C.
1.
The potential harm that the student poses to other students or clinical
patients;
2.
The ability of the individual to accomplish the objectives of the course
curriculum; and
3.
Whether or not a reasonable accommodation can be made that will enable
the student to safely and efficiently accomplish the objectives and/or tasks
of the course or curriculum in question without significantly exposing the
student or other persons to the risk of infection.
The evaluation of a student or applicant with a known communicable disease will
include a personal physician’s statement of the student’s health status as it relates
to the student’s ability to adequately and safely accomplish the essential clinical
objectives of his/her course of study. The physician’s statement must also
indicate the nature and extent of the individual’s susceptibility to infectious
76
diseases often encountered when accomplishing the objectives of the individual’s
course of study.
D.
VI.
When a student who is known to be infected with a communicable disease is
allowed to begin or continue in an Allied Health program pursuant to the above
procedures, the student, his/her personal physician, and the head of the relevant
program will carefully evaluate whether any clinical agency with which the
student is or will be involved should be informed of the student’s condition.
METHODS OF REDUCING THE POTENTIAL FOR EXPOSURE
A.
STANDARD PRECAUTIONS - All students must use standard precautions in
all situations in which potentially infectious materials may be present. In order to
insure that student exposure to HIV, HBV and other bloodborne pathogens is
minimized, all potentially infectious materials shall be handled as if known to be
contaminated with dangerous pathogens and, under circumstances in which
differentiation between body fluid types is difficult or impossible, all body fluids
shall be considered potentially infectious materials.
B.
ENGINEERING AND WORK PRACTICE CONTROLS - The following
engineering and work practice controls shall be observed by all students at all
times:
1.
All procedures involving blood or other potentially infectious materials
shall be performed so as to minimize splashing, spraying, spattering, or
generation of droplets of these substances. All procedures involving blood
or body fluids shall be performed to minimize exposure to eyes, mouth and
skin.
2.
Hand washing facilities shall be made readily accessible to students. When
not feasible, antiseptic hand cleaner in conjunction with clean cloth/paper
towels or antiseptic towelettes shall be made available. When antiseptic
hand cleaners or towelettes are used, hands shall be washed with soap and
running water as soon as feasible. Students shall wash their hands
immediately after removal of gloves or other personal protective
equipment, or as soon as feasible. Students shall wash their hands and any
other skin with soap and water or flush mucous membranes with water
immediately following contact with blood or other potentially infectious
materials or as soon as feasible
3.
Contaminated needles, glass, and other sharp objects capable of puncturing
the skin shall be discarded immediately or as soon as feasible in an
appropriate container and treated as regulated waste.
a.
Contaminated needles and other sharps shall not be bent, recapped,
or removed. When situations dictate recapping or needle removal,
a mechanical device or a one-handed technique shall be used.
77
b.
Containers for contaminated needles and sharps shall be located as
close as feasible to where sharps are used in the workplace.
Containers shall be puncture-resistant, leak-proof on sides and
bottom and closable and shall be red or clearly labeled with red or
orange-red “BIOHAZARD” label. Containers shall be maintained
upright throughout use and shall not be allowed to overfill.
Reusable containers shall not be opened, emptied or cleaned
manually or in any manner that would expose students to risk or
injury.
4.
Eating, drinking, smoking, applying cosmetics, lip balm, and handling
contact lenses are prohibited in work areas where there is reasonable
likelihood of occupational exposure. “NO EATING, DRINKING, OR
SMOKING” signs shall be posted.
5.
Food and drink shall not be kept in refrigerators, freezers, shelves,
cabinets, or on countertops where blood or other potentially infectious
materials are stored or likely to be encountered.
6.
Equipment that may become contaminated with blood or other potentially
infectious materials shall be examined prior to servicing or shipping and
shall be decontaminated as necessary, unless decontamination is not
feasible. A readily observable label with the “BIOHAZARD” legend
shall be attached to equipment indicating which portions remain
contaminated. This information shall be conveyed to all affected students
and to the servicing representative, as appropriate, prior to handling,
servicing or shipping so that appropriate precautions will be taken.
7.
Broken glassware that may be contaminated shall not be picked up
directly with the hands. It shall be cleaned up using mechanical means,
such as brush and dust pan, tongs, or forceps.
8.
Students having contact with contaminated laundry shall wear protective
gloves and other appropriate personal protective equipment.
Contaminated laundry shall be handled as little as possible.
Contaminated laundry shall be bagged or containerized at the location
where it was used and shall not be sorted or rinsed in the location of use.
Contaminated laundry shall be placed and transported in red or orangered bags or containers or placed in containers designated with red or
orange-red "BIOHAZARD" labels. If the facility utilizes Standard
Precautions in the handling of all soiled laundry, alternative labeling or
color-coding is sufficient if it permits all students to recognize the
containers as requiring compliance with Standard Precautions. Whenever
contaminated laundry is wet and presents a reasonable likelihood of soakthrough or leakage from the bag or container, the laundry shall be placed
and transported in bags or containers which prevent soak-through and/or
leakage of fluids to the exterior. When contaminated laundry is shipped
off-site to a second facility which does not utilize Standard Precautions in
78
the handling of all laundry, the laundry shall be placed in bags or
containers properly labeled or color-coded as delineated above. (See
IV.B.3(b) above for labeling requirements).
C.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - When occupational exposure
cannot be eliminated through use of work-practice controls alone, personal
protective equipment shall be used by all students. All students should have
access to, become familiar with, and follow personal protective equipment
policies established by each of A-B Tech’s departments on all of A-B Tech’s
campuses and off-campus clinical sites. The following provisions shall apply
with regard to personal protective equipment:
1.
Each student must use personal protective equipment when it can be
reasonably anticipated that he/she may have contact with blood or other
potentially infectious materials. The type and characteristics of appropriate
personal protective equipment will depend upon the task and degree of
exposure anticipated and could include gloves, gowns, masks, eye
protection, pocket masks, and resuscitation equipment.
2.
If protective equipment becomes penetrated or saturated by blood or other
potentially infectious materials, it shall be removed immediately or as
soon as feasible and shall be placed in an appropriated designated area or
container for decontamination or disposal. Likewise, personal protective
equipment shall be removed prior to leaving the work area and shall be
placed in the appropriate area for decontamination or disposal.
3.
Hypoallergenic gloves, glove liners, powderless gloves, or similar
alternative may be used by students who are allergic to the disposable
gloves normally provided.
4.
Gloves shall be worn when it can be reasonably anticipated that there may
be hand contact with blood, other potentially infectious materials, mucous
membranes, and non-intact skin; when performing vascular access
procedures; and when handling or touching contaminated items or
surfaces.
5.
Disposable gloves, such as surgical or examination gloves shall be
replaced as soon as practical when contaminated and as soon as feasible
when torn, punctured, or their ability to function as a barrier is
compromised. Disposable gloves shall not be reused.
6.
Utility gloves (heavy duty rubber gloves) may be decontaminated for reuse if the integrity of the glove is not compromised. Utility gloves must
be discarded when their ability to function as a barrier is compromised
(e.g., cracked, peeling, torn, punctured, etc.).
7.
Masks in combination with eye protection devices, such as goggles or
glasses with solid side shields, or chin-length face shields, shall be worn
79
whenever splashes, spray, spatter, or droplets of blood or other potentially
infectious materials may be generated and eye, nose, or mouth
contamination can be reasonably anticipated.
D.
8.
Appropriate protective clothing such as, but not limited to, gowns, aprons,
lab coats, clinic jackets, or similar outer garments shall be worn in
occupational exposure situations. The type and characteristics will depend
upon the tasks and degree of exposure anticipated. Surgical caps or hoods
and/or shoe covers or boots shall be worn in instances when gross
contamination can reasonably be anticipated (e.g., autopsies or
orthopaedic surgery).
9.
Under rare and extraordinary circumstances when, in a student’s
professional judgment, use of personal protective equipment in a specific
instance would pose an increased hazard to the safety of the student,
another student or the instructor, the student may briefly and temporarily
decline to use personal protective equipment. In the event of such an
occurrence, a report shall immediately be made to the student’s instructor,
who shall contact College Security. The circumstances shall be
investigated and documented in order to determine whether changes can
be instituted to prevent such occurrences in the future.
HOUSEKEEPING - Each worksite shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary
condition. All equipment and all environmental and working surfaces shall be
cleaned and decontaminated after contact with blood or other potentially
infectious materials.
Protective coverings, such as plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or imperviously backed
absorbent paper, used to cover equipment and environmental surfaces shall be
removed and replaced as soon as feasible when they become overtly contaminated
or at the end of the work shift if they may have become contaminated during the
shift.
All bins, pails, cans, and similar receptacles intended for reuse which have a
reasonable likelihood for becoming contaminated with blood or other potentially
infectious materials shall be inspected and decontaminated on a regularly
scheduled basis and cleaned and decontaminated immediately or as soon as
feasible upon visible contamination.
E.
REGULATED WASTE - Regulated medical waste is handled in accordance
with federal, state, and local laws. North Carolina regulates three types of
medical waste: (1) microbiology laboratory waste, (2) pathology waste, and (3)
blood specimens or blood products in quantities greater than 20 ml per unit
container.
The medical waste will be placed in containers which are closable, constructed to
contain all contents and prevent leakage of fluids, colored red or orange-red with
letters in contrasting colors and a biohazard label, and appropriately located. The
80
container shall be closed prior to handling to prevent spillage. Any regulated
waste is picked up and transported by an outside contractor.
VII.
PROCEDURES TO FOLLOW IN THE EVENT OF AN EXPOSURE INCIDENT
A.
Students should immediately take appropriate precautionary measures after
exposure to blood or other potentially infectious body material. For eye, mouth,
and other mucous membrane exposures, the student should flush/rinse the
exposed area thoroughly with running water. For needle sticks, other puncture
wounds, or contamination of any body part with blood, the student should wash
thoroughly with soap and water.
B.
In the event that a student is exposed to a patient’s blood or body fluids, the student
will immediately report the incident to the clinical instructor. The clinical
instructor will then report the incident to the infection control nurse or site
physician and the department chairperson. The clinical instructor will complete an
Exposure Incident Report and forward it to the A-B Tech Director of Security
within 24 hours of the incident. The following procedures will also apply:
1.
Regardless of where the exposure incident occurs, whether on or off
campus, it is highly recommended that the student seek his/her choice of
follow-up care promptly within 1-2 hours of exposure to receive the care
recommended by the Centers for Disease Control in the event of exposure.
Initial treatment may include basic serology and antiviral medications.
Follow-up care may be obtained from among the following:
a.
b.
c.
OccuMed Coordinator at #50 Doctors Drive
If OccuMed office is closed, the emergency room at
Mission-St. Joseph’s Health System.
Other appropriate medical facility if the exposure
incident occurs outside of Buncombe County.
C.
In the event that a patient is exposed to a student’s blood or body fluids, the student
will immediately report the incident to the clinical instructor. The clinical
instructor will then report the incident to the infection control nurse or site
physician and the department chairperson. The clinical instructor will complete an
Exposure Incident Report and forward it to the A-B Tech Director of Security
within 24 hours of the incident. This procedure applies to all students, regardless
of their communicable disease status. In addition, an Allied Health student should
undergo testing whenever a patient has clearly been exposed to the student’s blood
or other body fluids.
D.
In the event that a student is exposed to a potential communicable disease, the
student will immediately report the incident to the clinical instructor. The clinical
instructor will then report the incident to the appropriate agency personnel and
81
department chairperson. The student and instructor will complete the applicable
incident report, which will be forwarded to the A-B Tech Director of Security.
VIII. STUDENT TRAINING
A-B Tech shall provide appropriate training on the transmission of bloodborne pathogens to all
students enrolled in an Allied Health program. The training will be provided by the respective
academic departments and shall include the following elements and instructions:
A.
All students will be provided with a copy of this Plan within 10 days of
commencing the course of study and will be instructed to follow the policies and
procedures set forth in this Plan at all times while they are enrolled in an Allied
Health or dental program at A-B Tech.
B.
All students will be instructed on and will adhere to standard precautions,
engineering and work practice controls and use of personal protective equipment,
including, but not limited to, the appropriate use of hand washing, body
substance isolation, and care in the use and disposal of needles and other sharp
instruments; contents of such training will be as outlined in the Exposure Control
Plan for employees.
C.
All students will be made aware of the potential risks associated with patient care
during class lectures. All students agree to follow recommendations from A-B
Tech and affiliated clinical agencies concerning communicable disease policies at
all times.
D.
All students must comply with the current guidelines for disinfection and
sterilization of reusable devices used in invasive procedures as outlined by the
clinical site.
E.
Any student who has exudative lesions or weeping dermatitis should refrain from
all direct patient care, from handling patient-care equipment, and from handling
devices used for invasive procedures until the condition is resolved. The
condition will be deemed resolved when a physician signs a release form, and the
student may then resume direct patient care duties.
82
IX.
RECORDS
A.
EXPOSURE INCIDENT RECORDS – A-B Tech shall maintain all records
pertinent to this Plan regarding students reporting an exposure incident for a
period of thirty (30) years beyond the date the student is last enrolled at A-B
Tech. The records must include the name and social security number; status of
the Hepatitis B vaccine, including dates; and any information regarding an
exposure incident. These records shall be confidential and shall be forwarded to
Student Services for inclusion in the student’s records.
B.
SHARPS INJURY LOG – The Program Coordinator shall establish and
maintain a sharps injury log for the recording of percutaneous injuries incurred by
students from contaminated sharps. The information in the sharps injury log shall
be recorded and maintained in such manner as to protect the confidentiality of the
injured student. The sharps injury log shall contain, at a minimum:
1.
The type and brand of device involved in the incident,
2.
The department or work area where the exposure incident occurred, and
3.
An explanation of how the incident occurred.
The sharps injury log shall be maintained for five (5) years in the student’s
records following the year to which it applies.
X.
MAINTENANCE OF PROCEDURES
The Program Coordinator shall ensure that this Plan is reviewed and updated on an
annual basis. The review and update of this Plan shall reflect changes in technology that
eliminate or reduce exposure to bloodborne pathogens and document annually
consideration and implementation of appropriate commercially available and effective
safer medical devices designed to eliminate or minimize occupational exposure. A-B
Tech shall solicit input from non-managerial employees responsible for direct patient
care who are potentially exposed to injuries from contaminated sharps in the
identification, evaluation, and selection of effective engineering and work practice
controls and shall document the solicitation in the Plan. This Plan shall be accessible to
all students and maintained in the Office of College Security.
XI.
ATTACHMENTS
The following documents are attached to and are part of this Plan:
•
•
Hepatitis B Vaccination Verification/Declination Form (Attachment I)
Incident Report Form (Attachment II)
83
XII.
CROSS REFERENCE
Administrative procedures regarding HIV/HBV infection status.
Attachment II
Post-Exposure Follow-Up Procedures
Step 1
ON-CAMPUS
Instruct a bystander on how to call for assistance while you stay
with the victim.
Security – Extension 125.
INCIDENT
Assistance
Medical Emergency – Dial 9 (to get an off campus line) and
then dial 911.
Immediate medical assistance should be requested if victim is
bleeding profusely, not breathing, no heart beat, severely
injured.
Step 1
Manage medical emergency situation, if applicable. Follow
standard procedure of the respective clinical site or OccuMed.
OFF-CAMPUS
INCIDENT
Proceed to Step 2.
Assistance
Step 2
Medical Treatment
For eye, mouth, and other mucous membrane exposures, employees
should flush/rinse the exposed area thoroughly with running water.
For needle sticks, other puncture wounds, or contamination of any
body part with blood, employees should wash thoroughly with soap
and water.
Instructor should confirm that the student has:
Follow-Up
A-B Tech Student
-
-
-
Activated Student Accident Insurance claim by seeing
Shelby Burnette, Administrative Assistant in the Simpson
Building within 48 hours of exposure.
-
If student was not tested in emergency room, he or she should
go to OccuMed, Mission’s Outpatient Service Center at 495
Biltmore Avenue, Asheville, NC, for testing within 1-2 hours
of incident. Testing is covered by student accident insurance
provided that student has seen Shelby Burnette to activate
claim.
Activate Student
Accident Claim
Obtain testing
84
Follow-Up
-
Chair should file a Worker’s Compensation form on the
incident in the Human Resources Office within 48 hours.
-
Employee should go to OccuMed, Mission’s Outpatient
Service Center at 50 Doctors Drive, Asheville, NC, for testing
within 1-2 hours of incident. Testing will be paid by
Worker’s Compensation.
A-B Tech Employee
Post Exposure-Procedure continues on following page
-
File Worker’s
Compensation
-
Obtain testing
Step 3
Incident Report
If on campus, complete an Incident Report Form, in
conjunction with a Security Officer.
If off campus, instructor or supervisor should contact Security
upon returning to campus to complete Incident Report.
Security Director should review Report with appropriate
administrator and Human Resources officer within 24 hours.
Instructor should explain situation to patient.
Step 4
Source Individual
-
Testing
Purchase
Requisition
If in hospital setting, arrange for testing of source patient
according to Hospital policy.
If in non-hospital setting, arrange for patient to go to OccuMed,
Mission’s Outpatient Service Center at 50 Doctors Drive,
Asheville, NC, for OccuMed testing, Instructor should call Anja
Woody at 213-0878 to authorize A-B Tech to be billed for source
patient testing.
Chair should complete a purchase requisition within 24 hours
of incident. Requisition should include the source patient’s and
employee’s or student’s name. Fee for testing will be billed to
the department’s supply budget.
Please refer to the pages following this one for additional information on OccuMed fees and
Referral Forms.
85
Post-Exposure and Follow-Up Procedures
For Extraordinary Occurrences
If exposed to a known Hepatitis B antigen positive person or a known HIV positive person:
1. Individual should report immediately to an emergency room.
2. Comply with the Post-Exposure and Follow-Up Procedures listed on the previous pages.
86
ASHEVILLE-BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Referral to OccuMed for Post-Exposure Follow-Up
Directions: To be completed by instructor or supervisor at time of incident. Student or employee
should hand carry a copy of this form to OccuMed (50 Doctors Drive) to obtain testing.
Student or Employee Information:
Name: ________________________________________________________________________
Date of birth: _____________________________ Social Security #: ______________________
Address: _______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Phone: _____________________________(home) _______________________________(work)
Employer: _____________________________________________________________________
Employer’s Address: ____________________________________________________________
Source Patient Information:
Name: ________________________________________________________________________
Date of birth: _____________________________ Social Security #: ______________________
Address: _______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Phone: _____________________________(home) _______________________________(work)
Referred by: Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech)
Department or area: _____________________________________________________________
Contact person at A-B Tech: ________________________ Phone: 254-1921 Ext: ________
87
ASHEVILLE-BUNCOMBE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE
GENERAL INCIDENT REPORT FORM
TO BE FILLED OUT BY THE INSTRUCTOR OR SUPERVISOR
DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE INCIDENT
FILL IN ALL BLANKS
Reporting Supervisor
Date/Time
Incident
Date Occurred
Location
Time Occurred
Victim Name
Phone
Address
City/State
Student _____ Yes
Zip
_____ No
If yes, SS Number
Curriculum
If no, Position/Title
VICTIM’S NARRATIVE (Briefly describe what happened, including the type and brand of
device involved in the incident).
Signature
88
INSTRUCTOR’S/SUPERVISOR’S NARRATIVE (Include all information related to the incident including the department or
work area where the exposure occurred and an explanation of how the incident occurred).
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________
Signature
FIRST AID RENDERED _____ Yes
Medical Treatment Needed
_____ No
If yes, give details of aid given and by whom.
_____Yes _____No If yes, transported to
By
IF TREATMENT RECOMMENDED AND VICTIM REFUSES, COMPLETE NEXT SECTION
MEDICAL TREATMENT REFUSAL
(To be read to victim)
The victim has been informed of the need to seek medical treatment. The options available are: emergency room, personal
physician, health department, and if applicable, follow-up care. If there is Bloodborne or Communicable Disease exposure it is
recommended that the person seek his/her choice of follow up care promptly within 1-2 hours of exposure. Care may be obtained
from among the following: OccuMed Coordinator at Mission-St. Joseph’s Health System (50 Doctors Drive). If they are closed,
the emergency room at Mission-St. Joseph’s Health System or other appropriate medical facility if the exposure incident occurs
outside of Buncombe County.
VICTIM REFUSAL
, refuse medical treatment and/or transportation to a medical facility
and understand that by refusing treatment, I accept full responsibility for my actions.
Victim’s Signature
Witness Signature
Date and Time
89
For Trainer Use Only
Test Score =
possible points
OSHA Training Test
of 15
PRINT Name:
Sign Name:
Date:
Directions: Please circle one best answer for each question.
1. Which statement is true about OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Training?
a. Training should be retaken once every five years
b. It is the employee’s responsibility to locate and pay for a course
c. The employer must provide annual training for Category 1 employees
d. Training is voluntary for Category 1 employees
2. Employers must provide at-risk employees with the vaccination for:
a. Hepatitis A, B, and C
b. Hepatitis B
c. Hepatitis B and AIDS
d. Hepatitis A, B, C, and AIDS
3. All of the following are modes of HIV transmission except:
a. An accidental needle stick
b. Sharing contaminated needles
c. Eating food prepared by an individual who is HIV positive
d. Direct contact with blood
4. A student accidentally cuts his finger on a piece of glass in lab. The cut is minor, but there are several
drops of blood on the lab bench. The course instructor should respond to this situation by
immediately:
a. Wrapping the student’s hand in a towel and calling Security
b. Calling EMS, if needed, and calling Security and Plant Operations
c. Telling the student to go to the rest room and wash his hand
d. Giving the student an adhesive bandage and asking him to clean up the blood spatters
e. Instructing the student to be more careful in the future with equipment
5. Which symptoms can be present when a person is infected with the Hepatitis virus (HBV)?
a. Fatigue (tiredness
b. Fever
c. Yellow skin tone (jaundice)
d. Nausea and diarrhea
e. All of the above
6. A person who is infected with HBV can infect others even if he or she does not look or feel sick.
a. True
b. False
90
7. A person who is infected with HIV can infect others even if he or she does not look or feel sick.
a. True
b. False
8. HBV is a:
a. A disease inherited from one’s parents
b. Transmitted by blood or bloody body fluids
c. Transmitted by insects
d. An infection caused by bacteria
9. Masks, eye protection and gowns are necessary if there is a likelihood of direct contact with blood
and blood splatter or spray.
a. True
b. False
10. Which of the following is the biohazard symbol?
a.
b.
c.
11. Contaminated sharp items, such as needles or broken glass, can be wrapped in paper towels
and disposed of in the regular trash.
a. True
b. False
12. An employee or student who has a bloodborne pathogen exposure should:
a. File a Worker’s Compensation or Student Accident Insurance claim
b. Wait six weeks before returning to work
c. Have blood tests at OccuMed, an emergency room, or physician’s office
d. Both “a” and “c”
13. When cleaning up a blood spill, gloves need not be worn if a cleaning solution is being used.
a. True
b. False
14. It is not necessary to wash your hands after removing gloves.
a. True
b. False
15. It is good practice to eat or drink in the dental clinic as long as there are no patients being
treated at the time.
a. True
b. False
91
Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College
Surgical Technology Program
STUDENT TRAINING DECLARATION
Surgical Technology Diploma/Associate Education
(provide a copy to program Chairperson for student file)
I declare that I have been thoroughly instructed and trained on the OSHA Blood Borne
Pathogens standards. I have been given adequate instruction in the form of face-to-face, written,
and electronic training. I have access to these materials should I have further questions. There
was adequate time for questions in the training and I feel that my instructor(s) were
knowledgeable. I attest by signing this declaration that I have voluntarily told the truth as I see it
in the words printed above.
---------------------------------------------------------_________________
Student Name___
--------------------------------------------------------Student ID __________
Introduction to Surgical Technology SUR 110_
Curriculum Course
--------------------------------------------------------Date
_
______________________________________
92
Associate of Applied Science in Surgical
Technology
93
AB-TECH SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE
PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOME OBJECTIVES
UPON COMPLETION OF AB-TECH’S AAS SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM, THE
STUDENT WILL:
Apply advanced practice concepts for a surgical department in the education,
circulating, scrub, and management roles by:
1. Integrating health care management skills to improve personal surgical facility
awareness.
2. Formulating a patient plan of care in the circulating role.
3. Implementing patient care for a surgical procedure in which the certified surgical
technologist is currently unspecialized.
4. Executing an educational presentation.
94
AB-TECH SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY AAS PROGRAM OUTCOME OBJECTIVES
1. Analyze psychological, emotional, social, cultural, attitudinal, and philosophical
behaviors and how they affect you and your role both as an individual and a team
member of the peri-operative team.
2. Understand the importance of critical thinking in both personal and professional lives.
3. Identify barriers to effective outcomes in the workplace.
4. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
5. Understand the purpose, style, grammatical importance, and form of business letters,
memos, and e-mails.
6. Discuss different leadership styles and why you think one style might be more effective
than another.
7. Explain supervisory functions and proper use of authority.
8. Demonstrate problem solving and decision making ability.
9. Provide ideas for improving both motivation and productivity.
10. Demonstrate how to deal with difficult employees and difficult situations.
11. Begin to develop conflict resolution skills as this is an on-going process.
12. Demonstrate how to manage time, stress, conflict and change.
13. Discuss ethics in the operating room and the impact it has on both you and the patient.
14. Understand the responsibility of people to think and act in reasonable, ethical ways.
15. Determine a departmental educational need with the operating room educator. Plan and
organize a teaching project or inservice.
16. Develop a peri-operative plan of care for a patient undergoing surgery.
17. Demonstrate the ability to learn a complex surgical procedure that the student is not
specialized in.
18. Provide a variety of methods of cost saving for your department.
19. Provide a mock or real schedule for your department for two weeks. Discuss the
difficulties you encountered and explain how you dealt with them.
Discuss how all of the education you have received in the AAS program has changed your
perceptions and opinions about your role in the operating room
95
Surgical Technology Associate of Applied Science Bridge Program
The surgical technology bridge program is designed to allow currently certified non-degree surgical technologists
to earn an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in surgical technology. Surgical technologists enrolled in
the bridge program must have completed their surgical technology certificate or diploma at a Commission on
Accreditation for Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredited surgical technology program. All major
courses along with all related and general education course requirements must be met for the Surgical
Technology Associate in Applied Science Degree.
Specific Requirements
1. General college admission requirements.
a. Complete application for admission
b. Successfully complete college placement test.
c. High school transcript or GED scores on file with admissions office.
d. Official transcript of any prior college credit on file with admissions office.
e. Diploma or Certificate in Surgical Technology from a CAAHEP accredited program.
2.
Current Basic Cardiac Life Support for the health care provider.
3.
Final admission to the Surgical Technology program shall be contingent upon documentation of physical and
emotional health that would provide evidence that is indicative of the applicant’s ability to provide safe care to
the public.
4.
Satisfactory completion of required immunizations.
5.
Current Certification in Surgical Technology (CST) through the NBSTSA (National Board on Surgical
Technology and Surgical Assisting).
6.
Two letters of recommendation from a previous or current director, supervisor, operation room educator, or
specialty service line team leader.
*Copies of 1e. as well as 2-6 must be on file with the surgical technology department.
The CST and surgical technology certificate or diploma will provide 33 hours of credit towards the A.A.S. degree.
The program will accept transferred curriculum courses from regionally accredited institutions in related and
general education coursework, as well as major area coursework. Students must earn a minimum of 25% of all
A.A.S. courses at A-B Tech.
Surgical technology, related and general education courses can be completed at the student's own pace. It is
understood that most students are employed full time during their A.A.S. pursuit. General education courses are
offered fall, spring and summer semesters. Surgical technology courses: SUR 210 and SUR 211 are offered
during fall and spring semesters respectively.
96
Surgical Technology Bridge Program
Associate in Applied Science Degree
Program Summary
General Education
English/Communication
Humanities/Fine Arts
Natural Sciences/Mathematics
Social/Behavioral Sciences
Core Courses
Program Total
Hours
15
6
3
3
3
51
66
Courses requiring a grade of "C" or better: BIO & SUR
Weekly
Class Lab Clinic Credit
Hrs. Hrs. Hrs. Hrs.
First Semester (Fall)
BIO 163 Basic Anatomy & Physiology
4
2
0
5
ENG 111 Expository Writing
3
0
0
3
PSY 150 General Psychology
3
0
0
3
SOC 215 Group Processes
3
0
0
3
SUR 211 Advanced Theoretical Concepts
2
0
0
2
15
2
0
16
2
3
2
3
2
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
3
3
3
3
3
0
0
3
0
0
6
2
13
Program Totals excluding SUR Diploma courses
4
28
6
6
17
33
Second Semester (Spring)
BIO 175 General Microbiology
BUS 135 Principles of Supervision
CIS 110 Introduction to Computers
ENG 114 Prof Research & Reporting
(or COM 120 Interpersonal Comm)
HUM 115 Critical Thinking
(or PHI 240 Introduction to Ethics)
SUR 210 Advanced Clinical Practice
Program Totals with SUR Diploma/Certificate courses:
33 credits plus above 33 credits = 66
*At least 25% of required total credit hours (17 hours) must be earned at A-B
97
Clinical Site Expectations/Requirements Associate of Applied Science
1. You must abide by the clinical institutional policies. Part of ensuring this is that you demonstrate
or provide me with documentation from your clinical site that you have completed all required
educational documentation for the current year. If you are at Mission Hospital for your clinical
experience and are not a Mission employee, you must complete the mandatory educational
competencies that I have in my office. Ask, and I will provide this to you. It must be complete prior to
your clinical beginning. If you are a Mission employee, I must have educational compliance
validation from your operating room educator or supervisor. Park Ridge Hospital has educational
competencies called “Bare Facts”. The same applies to this as does the above Mission Hospital
competencies.
2. As an ABTECH surgical technology student, you must:
 Double glove in the first or second scrub role. This is not negotiable. This is our policy and the
only way you will be covered by our liability insurance should you sustain a needle-stick or
similar type injury while in the scrub role.
 Wear protective eyewear/goggles in the first or second scrub role. This is not negotiable. This is
our policy and the only way you will be covered by our liability insurance should you sustain a
needle-stick or similar type injury while in the scrub role.
 Tuck in both your shirt and scrub pant strings. This is not negotiable. Is a potential liability issue
should you contaminate.
 Secure and tuck all loose hair into your scrub cap. This is not negotiable. Is a potential liability
issue should you contaminate.
 Wear a lab coat anytime you enter or exit the clinical operating room department. It must be
buttoned up when you enter or exit the department. This is hospital policy as well as ABTECH
policy.
 Do not wear jewelry, nail polish, artificial nails, or cologne. This is a potential liability issue
should you introduce infection or an asthma attack to a patient.
 Wear a name tag at all times. This is a security issue. ABTECH Surgical Technology Student
name badges can be purchased from Read’s Uniform’s for about $5.00 each. Make sure that your
title of CST follows your name and that it states ABTECH AAS surgical technology student
under your name.
 Observe the decorum of professionalism at all times. I do not want to remove you from your
clinical experience for lack of professionalism. Remember you are a guest in the clinical site as a
student, employee or not. It is my personal feeling that I should not have to tell a CST how to
behave. Understand however, that as an ABETECH student, you are held to the Student Code of
Conduct in your ABTECH Handbook found in your documents tab.
 Not carry a cell phone unless it is on silent or off.
 Turn in one of four projects at each four week interval as described in the syllabus.
 Abstain from misconduct or negligent behavior.
I, _____________________________have read, understand, and agree to comply with the above
(print name)
ABTECH Clinical Requirements.
98
Surgical Technology Mandatories Check List
 Physical examination: form completed by student and
physician/physician’s assistant, Family Nurse Practitioner validating
physical, mental and emotional health conducive to completing the
program of study
 Immunization records indicating completion of the following
vaccines:
o MMR x 2 (measles mumps, rubella)
o DTP (diphtheria tetanus pertussis) current
o Varicella vaccine x 2 or varicella titer with positive results
(chicken pox)
o Hepatitis B series (x 3 shots)
o PPD (purified protein derivative= tuberculosis skin test)
within last year (maintain/is only good for one year only)
o Influenza (in season/September-October) combo
(H1N1/seasonal flu)
 CPR - for the professional rescuer or health care professional
(infant, child, adult, AED training)
 Criminal background check through “Intellenet”. This company is
exclusive to our clinical sites. Specific forms will be given to you the
student to use with specific codes and passwords that allow clinical
sites access to your records.
 Drug screening through “Intellenet” beginning the third week of
May (after 15th) of each year before fall semester start. This
company is exclusive to our clinical sites. Specific forms will be
given to you the student to use with specific codes and passwords
that allow clinical sites access to your records.
 OSHA blood borne pathogens training
 Clinical site mandatory education modules (vary per site)
99
DISCLOSURE AND CONSENT FORM FOR STUDENT AND FACULTY BACKGROUND
CHECK
Certain participating healthcare sites hosting students and their faculty in clinical rotation require a
background check (i.e. Consumer Report) for all students and faculty participating in the clinical rotation
program. A designated representative of each clinical site for which you are scheduled for rotation will
review the results of your report to determine your eligibility to participate in clinical rotation activities on
that site. No Consumer Report will be used in violation of any State or Federal law. Should any clinical
site deny you eligibility to participate in clinical rotation on that site based on information contained in
your report, you will be provided a copy of your report at no additional charge from the Consumer
Reporting Agency (CRA) that provided the report. This agency will assist you in resolving any
information on the report that you feel is in error. The personal information provided by you will be used
solely for the purpose of obtaining your student background check. This information and the results of
your background check will be kept confidential and secure at all times and will be made available only to
the designated representative for each clinical site that requires a student background check.
I hereby authorize that a background check consisting of, and limited to, a criminal record check, sex
offender search, and validation of current and previous name and address information relating to me; to
be obtained from INTELLENET, INC. (contact # 800-979-1739), and that this report be made available
for review by the designated representative of any clinical site on which I will be performing clinical
rotation as a student that requires a student background check.
Signature:___________________________________________ Date:____________________________
Printed Name:________________________________________Phone
#:__________________________________
The fee for the background check is $23.00, and can be ordered either (1) online or (2) by mail.
To order online, go to www.intellenet.net and click on [ENTER] to bring up login screen, then enter the
following codes: Company ID = mednet User ID =clinical pwd = 72xtcy97 and double click [Login].
Enter information for previous 7 years into the form; enter credit card information and click [Submit]
button. Note that amount is automatically set at $23.00. If no entry errors are found, a Card Processing
screen appears. Please verify card information and click [Process] button only once. At this point a charge
of $23.00 to your card will be submitted. If card is accepted, an Application Confirmation screen appears.
Click on Print Application in the Confirmation box for a hardcopy of this transaction for your records.
For security of your personal information, you MUST LOGOUT upon completion.
To order by mail, complete the following section and mail a copy of this form to INTELLENET, INC., 22
South Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801 along with a money order payable to INTELLENET in the
amount of $23.00.
DOB:__________________
SSN:__________________________DLN______________________State:______
Enter current name, and any previous names used within the past 7 years:
Current name______________________________________________Year first used:_________
Previous name_____________________________________________Year first used:_________
Previous name_____________________________________________Year first used:_________
Enter current address, and any previous addresses used within the previous 7 years:
Current:__________________________________________________Year residency began:______
Previous:_________________________________________________ Year residency began:______
Previous:_________________________________________________ Year residency began:______
NOTE: Upon completion of submission, please indicate date and method, and provide a copy of this form to
the college coordinator to be maintained on file. [ ] Online [ ] Mail Date Submitted_________
100
INSTRUCTIONS FOR STUDENTS TO OBTAIN DRUG SCREENS
REQUIRED FOR
CLINICAL ROTATIONS AT MISSION HEALTH SYSTEM
Mission Health System now requires a drug screen in addition to a background check for all students
that will be performing clinical rotations with Mission Health System. Mission has agreed to process
the drug screens for these students.
The drug screens will be administered at the Mission Occumed/Staff Health Services (“Occumed”)
office located at 50 Doctors Drive, Suite 100. To reach this location, go south on McDowell street to
the red light in front of the Little Pigs restaurant. Turn left here on to Doctors Drive and proceed up
the hill. Toward the top of the hill on the left there will be a large three story brick building. This
building houses the OccuMed Services. There is parking around the building. Go in the main
entrance located in the middle of the building. Once inside the building turn to your right for the
reception area.
The OccuMed offices are open Monday through Friday, 7am to 6pm. Students may walk-in, or make
an appointment by calling 213-2222 and selecting option #2. The testing process usually requires 20
to 30 minutes total, but the wait time will vary, and appointments are preferred to reduce the wait
time. Walk-ins should come after 12 noon on Monday, and between 9am and 5pm Tuesday through
Friday.
The fee for the drug test is $32.00 and must be pre-payed. Because of the volume of work, OccuMed
will not accept payment for the drug test at the time of testing. The student must present a receipt to
OccuMed showing proof of payment through Intellenet Inc.at the time of testing. There are two ways
to order and pre-pay for the drug screen, as follows:
(1) Pay online with a credit card by going to Intellenet Inc.’s website, www.intellenet.net, click
the login button over client access, then enter the following pass codes in the login screen:
Company ID: drugscreen User: student Password: k6f398xt (all lower case)
Enter the requested information, then scroll to the bottom of the screen and pay with credit card.
After payment is successfully processed an Application Confirmation screen will appear. On this
screen under the Report No., field on the left side there is a Print Application. Click here and a
receipt screen will appear. Print this receipt, which serves as proof of payment when you go to
Mission for your drug screen, or,
(2) Send a $32.00 money order and an accompanying memo with full name, DOB, SSN, and
email address, to: Intellenet, Inc., 22 South Pack Square, Suite 302, Asheville, NC 28801. A
receipt will be emailed to you; therefore it is very important that you provide an email
address in order to receive a receipt for your order. This receipt will be used as proof of
payment when you go to Mission for your drug screen.
If you have any questions about the payment process please contact Intellenet at 828-251-9898, or
800-979-1739 if out of area.
NOTE: The results of the initial drug screen are reported to the student at the time of the test.
If the initial drug screen result is non-negative, the sample must be sent to another laboratory
to confirm the non-negative result. If the student chooses to have the sample submitted for
confirmation there is an additional fee of $49.00 for the confirmation that must be paid to
Occumed by the student at the time of the initial drug test. Therefore it is very important that
the student arrive at Occumed prepared to pay for the confirmation test if necessary. Personal,
checks, cash, or Master Card and Visa are accepted. If the student chooses not to have the
sample submitted for confirmation, the results of the student’s drug screen are reported as a
refusal to test.
Rev. 10/13/2010
**RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE ANNUALLY
101
MISSION OCCUMED SERVICES
NOTICE TO STUDENTS REGARDING DRUG SCREENS
The results of your 7 panel drug screen are reported to you in our office at the
time of your visit to Occumed. If the results of your drug screen show a
non-negative result, your sample must be sent to another laboratory for
further testing to confirm the non-negative result if you so choose.
If you choose to have your sample sent for confirmation of the non-negative
result, there is an additional fee for this confirmation which must be paid to
Occumed at the time the results of your drug screen are reported to you. The
fee for the confirmation of a non-negative on 1 of the 7 panels is $47.50, and
$27.40 per panel for any additional panels showing a non-negative test result.
Occumed will accept payment by cash, check, or Visa and Master Card.
If you refuse the confirmation testing, the results of your drug screen will be
reported as a refusal to test.
If you find that you did not come prepared to pay the additional fee for
confirmation, you may reschedule your drug screen. If you wish to proceed
with your drug screen, please complete the following:
I have read and understand the above notice.
Printed Name:_____________________________________________
Signature:__________________________ Date:_________________
**RATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE ANNUALLY
102
Asheville Buncombe Surgical Technology Program
Transfer or Readmission Policy
1.
All applicants must meet the entrance criteria set forth by the college and the Surgical Technology Program
prior to consideration for transfer or readmission. Refer to college admissions criteria.
2.
The ability to transfer or be readmitted is dependent upon available space within the program.
3.
Applicants for transfer or readmission will be allowed one attempt per year to apply, take, and pass all
required exams and lab practicums.
4.
Applicants for transfer or readmission must have their transcripts sent to the Admissions Office and have
their general education courses evaluated. Students should schedule an appointment with the Surgical
Technology Department Chair after the admissions office has evaluated their transcripts. The chair will
meet with the student and explain the entry/re-entry requirements with the perspective student. Credit
cannot be awarded for Surgical Technology courses if they were completed more than three years prior to
readmission or transfer.
6. Applicants for transfer or readmission must provide documentation of all required
immunizations and submit a current (within last year) completed Health History and Physical
Examination record using the required college forms. Current background check/drug screen also required.
7. Under no circumstances can a student participate in a clinical rotation to satisfy clinical
requirements for another institution. Any student who is participating in clinical rotations
must be enrolled in this program and must satisfy all clinical documentation that is
required, including but not limited to CPR for the health care professional, immunizations,
physicals, criminal background check, drug screening, OSHA blood borne pathogen training, and
individual clinical site mandatory training.
1.
2.
3.
4.
FALL SEMESTER
Readmission or transfer applicants for Fall Semester would apply for admission to the surgical technology
program and would be competing with other applicants in the competitive admissions process beginning in
October of the year prior to the planned admission.
Seats will not be held for a student except in the case of extreme extenuating circumstances.
If a student has completed either SUR 110 or SUR 111 with a grade of “C” or better, the student must
demonstrate retained competency by taking the SUR 110 and or SUR 111 final examination prior to the
scheduled summer orientation date for the incoming students for the current start year.
Responsibility for making this testing arrangement lies with the student.
A student who passes SUR 111 the prior year, must also pass with 80% or better both the lab practical
identification exam and a video-taped lab practical II demonstration with no unrecognized contaminations
in one attempt. The lab practicums must be completed no later than November 1st of the fall semester. It is
entirely up to the student to schedule these at a time that is convenient to faculty. A flash drive is required.
 Bear in mind that the lab is only available to currently enrolled students per institutional policy,
therefore no open lab time can be permitted. The readmitted student should have saved their previous year
lab practical video to review to prepare for the lab practical attempts. Auditing or retaking the SUR 111
course is strongly recommended to ensure that the student has access to the lab for preparation in passing
the required readmissions LP II practicum. Auditing/re-taking the class will only be possible if the student
applies for readmission the following year and obtains a seat.
103
The following criteria are used to determine transfer/readmission eligibility for Spring and Summer
semesters. These guidelines are set forth and approved by the Department Chair for Surgical Technology and
the Dean of Allied Health. There will be no deviation or exceptions to the following:



1.
2.
SPRING SEMESTER
Transfer and readmission into the spring semester is contingent upon space available.
Applicant must have taken and passed SUR 110, SUR 111, ENG 111, ACA 115 BIO 163, and BIO 175 or
equivalent classes with a C or better. Equivalent General Education courses will be determined by
admissions and Surgical Technology courses will be determined by the Surgical Technology Chair Person.
Current competence in surgical technology courses will be determined based on the following:
Applicant must take and pass the final exam for SUR 110 with a 70% or better.
Applicant must take and pass the SUR 111 Didactic Final Exam and pass with a 70% or better.
Applicant must take and pass the SUR 111 Lab Practical 2 with an 80% or better and zero unrecognized
contaminations. This demonstrates the ability to safely proceed into the clinical setting and is required of
all students prior to entering a clinical site. It will be video-taped. Student to provide a flash drive. See #4
page 104.
SUMMER SEMESTER
Transfer and readmission into the spring semester is contingent upon space availability.
Applicant must have taken and passed SUR 110, SUR 111, SUR 122, SUR 123, ENG 111, CIS 110, ACA
115, BIO 163, and BIO 175 or equivalent classes with a C or better. Equivalent General Education
courses will be determined by admissions and Surgical Technology courses will be determined by the
Surgical Technology Chair Person.
Current competence in surgical technology courses will be determined based on the following
criteria:
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Applicant must take and pass the final exam for SUR 110 with a 70% or better.
Applicant must take and pass the SUR 111 Didactic Final Exam and pass with a 70% or better.
Applicant must take and pass the identification final exam with a 70% or better.
Applicant must take and pass the SUR 111 Lab Practical 2 with 80% or better.
Applicant must take and pass the SUR 122 didactic Final Exam with a 70% or better.
Didactic and lab practical exams will be graded by the Department Chair or an Instructor for the Surgical
Technology Program.
8.
Clinical competence in SUR 123 will be determined in one of two ways:
a.
Official Case Log Documentation is required from the transferring institution, complete
with program director’s signature, a number for contact, and a list of case numbers and
types per the AST Core Curriculum 6thed. Recommended Guidelines page 173. Inability to
prove this information will result in the student not being eligible to take the NBSTSA
Certification Exam. For the transfer/readmission student, it is recommended that prior
clinical experience not be greater than one year prior to readmission.
OR
b. Applicant must take and pass with a C or better, SUR 123 in the
Spring semester prior to the summer to be entered, to validate a
consistent case history required for taking the NBSTSA certification
exam and case number requirements. This is demonstrated by auditing
the course, SUR 123. Consistent demonstration of clinical competence is
imperative to safe patient care.
104
Please note:
1. Attendance policies will be enforced at all times for all classroom and clinical instruction.
2. Absences that exceed 10% will result in the student not advancing to the next semester as per
AB-TECH attendance policy.
3. See SUR 123 syllabi for course requirements and criteria, as they are applicable to the
transfer/readmission applicant during the taking of that course. Any violation of the SUR 123
course syllabi will prevent the student from advancing to the summer semester that the
transfer/readmission is sought.
4. Applicant must pass SUR 123 with a C or better to transfer/readmit to the summer semester.
105
Download