PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM STUDENT HANDBOOK

2019-2020

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Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................................................. 5

SECTION I: PA PROGRAM ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE ................................................................................................................. 6

PA Principal Program Faculty ........................................................................................................................................................... 6 PA Adjunct Program Faculty ............................................................................................................................................................. 6 PA Program Staff .............................................................................................................................................................................. 7 PA Program Faculty Roles................................................................................................................................................................. 8 Core Faculty Committee ................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Curriculum Subcommittees............................................................................................................................................................... 8 Admissions Subcommittee ................................................................................................................................................................ 8

SECTION II: PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM ................................................................................................................................... 9

Definition of Physician Assistants ..................................................................................................................................................... 9 History of the PA Profession ............................................................................................................................................................. 9 History of the FRANU PA Program .................................................................................................................................................... 9 PA Program Mission ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9 PA Program Purpose ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Technical Standards........................................................................................................................................................................ 10 Student Service/ Work Standard .................................................................................................................................................... 11 Physician Assistant Student Learning Outcomes ............................................................................................................................ 11 PA Program Goals/Outcome Measures .......................................................................................................................................... 12 Student Advising ............................................................................................................................................................................. 12

SECTION III: ACADEMIC POLICIES ..................................................................................................................................................... 13

Advanced Academic Credit ............................................................................................................................................................. 13 Didactic Curriculum ........................................................................................................................................................................ 13 Clinical Curriculum .......................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Summative Evaluations .................................................................................................................................................................. 13 ePackrat.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) ........................................................................................................................ 14 Examination/Quiz/Assignments ..................................................................................................................................................... 14 Students' Rights .............................................................................................................................................................................. 15 Students Requiring Accommodations ............................................................................................................................................. 15 Graduate Degree Credit.................................................................................................................................................................. 15 Grading Scale .................................................................................................................................................................................. 15 “I” Grade Policy .............................................................................................................................................................................. 16 Academic Grade Point Average ...................................................................................................................................................... 16 Grade Appeal Policy........................................................................................................................................................................ 16 Complaint and Grievance Procedure .............................................................................................................................................. 17 Program Progression ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Academic Status ............................................................................................................................................................................. 18 Academic Dismissal Policy .............................................................................................................................................................. 19 Student Remediation Policy - Didactic Phase ................................................................................................................................. 19 Student Remediation Policy – Clinical Phase .................................................................................................................................. 19 Automatic Withdrawal ................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Withdrawal from Course ................................................................................................................................................................ 20 Resignation ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Deceleration ................................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Leaves of Absence .......................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Program Withdrawal ...................................................................................................................................................................... 21

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Graduation Requirements .............................................................................................................................................................. 21

SECTION IV: PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIORS/STUDENT CONDUCT ........................................................................................................ 22

Professional Behavior ..................................................................................................................................................................... 22 General Misconduct........................................................................................................................................................................ 22 Academic Integrity.......................................................................................................................................................................... 22 Honor Code ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 22 Plagiarism ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Human Relations Code of Conduct ................................................................................................................................................. 24 Sexual Harassment ......................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Classroom Recordings .................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Cell Phone Use ................................................................................................................................................................................ 25 Substance Use ................................................................................................................................................................................ 25 Computer/Laptop Use .................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Social Media ................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Interactions with Instructors/Preceptors ........................................................................................................................................ 26 Interactions with Guest Lecturers ................................................................................................................................................... 26 Student Identification ..................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Dress Code ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Lab Coats ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 27 Attendance/Classroom Preparedness ............................................................................................................................................ 27 Tardiness ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 29 Criminal Activity ............................................................................................................................................................................. 29 Violations of Program Policies ........................................................................................................................................................ 29 Suspension ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 30

SECTION V: GENERAL PROGRAM AND UNIVERSITY POLICIES ........................................................................................................... 30

Transfer Policy ................................................................................................................................................................................ 30 Tuition and Fees ............................................................................................................................................................................. 30 Financial Aid ................................................................................................................................................................................... 31 Student Services.............................................................................................................................................................................. 31 FRANU Computer Use ..................................................................................................................................................................... 31 Student Records .............................................................................................................................................................................. 32 Falsification of Records/Information .............................................................................................................................................. 32 Privacy/Confidentiality ................................................................................................................................................................... 32 Mail/Letterhead ............................................................................................................................................................................. 32 PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING HARASSMENT, SEXUAL HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION OR SEXUAL MISCONDUCT .................. 32

SECTION VI: STUDENT HEALTH AND SAFETY SERVICES .................................................................................................................... 33

Professional Liability Insurance (Malpractice) ................................................................................................................................ 34 PA Program Health and CPR Requirements.................................................................................................................................... 34 Immunizations ................................................................................................................................................................................ 34 Physical Exam ................................................................................................................................................................................. 35 Drug Screening ............................................................................................................................................................................... 35 Criminal Background Check ............................................................................................................................................................ 35 CPR ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 36 Advanced Cardiac Life Support ....................................................................................................................................................... 36 Health Insurance............................................................................................................................................................................. 36 Financial Responsibility for Health Care ......................................................................................................................................... 36 Maintenance and Storage of Physician Assistant Student Health Records .................................................................................... 36 Campus Safety and Security ........................................................................................................................................................... 36 Campus Emergencies ...................................................................................................................................................................... 36 Parking Policy ................................................................................................................................................................................. 37 Firearms and Weapons Policy ........................................................................................................................................................ 37 Illness/Injury Policy ......................................................................................................................................................................... 37 Inclement Weather Policy ............................................................................................................................................................... 37 Clinical Laboratory Policy ............................................................................................................................................................... 37

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“Clean” Needle Stick Policy ............................................................................................................................................................. 37 Blood and Body Fluid Exposure Protocol ........................................................................................................................................ 38 Latex Allergy Policy ......................................................................................................................................................................... 38 Pregnancy Policy ............................................................................................................................................................................. 38

SECTION VII: STUDENT HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ............................................................................................................. 39

APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL STANDARDS STUDENT ATTESTATION ....................................................................................................... 40

APPENDIX B: STUDENT GRADE APPEAL FORM ................................................................................................................................ 42

APPENDIX C: HONOR STATEMENT ................................................................................................................................................... 43

APPENDIX D: GUIDELINES FOR ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR THE PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROFESSION (WWW.AAPA.ORG) ................... 44

APPENDIX E: CLINICAL AND PRACTICAL LAB SKILLS RELEASE ........................................................................................................... 52

APPENDIX F: PHOTOGRAPH/VIDEO RELEASE FORM ........................................................................................................................ 53

APPENDIX G: PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PROGRAM EXAMSOFT STUDENT EXAM-TAKING PROCEDURES .............................................. 54

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Introduction This Handbook serves as a guide to inform students of the graduate policies, procedures, and expectations of the Physician Assistant Program at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University. Failure to read the PA Program Student Handbook, the University Student Handbook, the Campus Safety Manual and the University catalog does not excuse the student from any of the policies described in these publications. In the event that policies and procedures in the PA Handbook are different from those posted in University publications, the PA Handbook supersedes those in other publications. The policies herein do not represent an exhaustive list of all possibilities that might arise for students and faculty in the administration of the program. Therefore, information contained herein, and any other information conveyed to the student, is subject to change at any time by authority of PA Faculty and School of Health Professions or administration of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University. When such changes are made, students will be properly informed of those changes via electronic communication modes (e. g., University Web site, e-mail, and/or Moodle).

The PA Program Student Handbook is the property of the FRANU PA Program AND MUST BE SURRENDERED UPON REQUEST

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Section I: PA Program Organizational Structure

The Physician Assistant Program lies within the School of Health Professions. The Program Director reports directly to the Dean of the School Health Professions. The Dean reports to the Vice-President for Academic Affairs, who reports directly to the President of FRANU.

PA Principal Program Faculty

Sarah Deyo MMS, PA-C Program Director Office Location: Science Building, Suite 103-A Email: sarah.deyo@franu.edu Office: 225-490-1655

Benjamin Erwin MMS, PA-C Academic Coordinator/Assistant Professor Office Location: Science Building, Suite 103-F Email: benjamin.erwin@franu.edu Office: 225-214-6975

Michael McIntosh Clinical Coordinator Office Location: Science Building, Suite 103-D Email: michael.mcintosh@franu.edu Office: 225-490-1655

Jossie Carter, MMS, PA-C Assistant Professor Office Location: Science Building, Suite 103-E Email: josselin.carter@franu.edu Office: 225-214-1992

Chad Braden, MD Medical Director Email: chad.braden@franu.edu Office: 225-490-1655

PA Adjunct Program Faculty

Albert Swafford, PhD Research Director/Associate Professor Office Location: Science Building, Suite 103-B Email: bert.swafford@franu.edu Office: 225-490-1606

Michael Ludwig, PhD Anatomy Professor Office Location: HP Annex, Suite 114 Email: michael.ludwig@franu.edu Office: 225-768-1702

Jason Cavalier, PharmD Pharmacology Instructor Email: jgcav78@gmail.com

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Case Rappalet, PA-C Radiology Instructor Email: rappelet@yahoo.com

PA Program Staff

Heather Lopez Academic Support Coordinator Email: heather.lopez@franu.edu Office: 225-490-1655

Theresa McAlister Secretary Email: theresa.mcalister@franu.edu Office: 225-490-1655

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PA Program Faculty Roles In addition to providing instruction, advising and mentoring of students, the PA faculty have a variety of other responsibilities. The PA faculty is led by the Program Director, who is ultimately responsible for the day-to-day operations of the program and adherence to accreditation standards. Core Faculty Committee The core faculty committee is chaired by the Program Director and includes principal faculty members and the Medical Director. The core faculty meets consistently to conduct the business of the PA program, which includes (but is not limited to):

- Approval of students for admission - Review and approval of program curriculum changes - Review/revision of program policies and procedures - Evaluation of students’ progression through the program - Discussion of any behavioral/conduct issues or failure to meet program requirements that may result

in disciplinary action The core faculty committee consists of the following subcommittees: Curriculum Subcommittees Curriculum will undergo ongoing assessment/review in order to improve the program and benefit student learning. As such, the Academic Coordinator and Program Director will meet with each instructor upon the completion of each semester to review student performance, course evaluations, faculty peer evaluations and other relevant items to determine what, if any curriculum changes/improvements should be made. Any plans put in place to revise curriculum for the following academic year will be managed by the Program Director. Proposed curriculum changes will then be presented to Graduate Council, Academic Review Council and finally Academic Council for final approval per University policy. Additionally, curriculum changes may be needed based on other factors. This may include, but is not limited to instructor availability/changes, university calendar changes, changes in PA practice, changes in accreditation standards, acquisition of new educational technology, etc. Therefore, at any time, a curriculum sub-committee may be developed and convened to thoroughly evaluate curriculum and make such changes. Approval will follow process as outlined above. Admissions Subcommittee The Admissions Subcommittee is charged with reviewing program applications, interviewing applicants and selecting class members for the upcoming year. In addition to intellectual capacity, personal maturity, and community service, the subcommittee believes diversity, as well as communication, and interpersonal skills and are vital to PA practice. The admissions subcommittee chair is the Academic Coordinator. Other members of the subcommittee include the program’s core faculty. Adjunct faculty, admissions representatives and graduate/practicing PAs are also invited to participate in admissions activities/interview days. Current students may be asked to participate in the interview process by hosting special events with the applicants participating in the interview day.

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Section II: Physician Assistant Program

Definition of Physician Assistants Physician Assistants are licensed and certified health care professionals who practice medicine in collaboration with licensed physicians. The scope of a Physician Assistant’s practice is determined by state law, the supervising physician’s delegation of responsibility, the PA’s education and experience, and the specialty and setting in which the PA works. History of the PA Profession In the mid-sixties, there was a need in the United States at both the national and local levels for more available, accessible, and affordable health care services, particularly in rural and under-served areas. Dr. Eugene Stead, chairman of the Department of Medicine at Duke University, established a two-year program to formally educate physician assistants. The educational model proposed by Dr. Stead was based in part on his experience of fast-training doctors during World War II and on his work to develop a new curriculum for undergraduate medical education. In the fall of 1965, four ex-Navy corpsmen began their education at Duke under Dr. Stead’s direction. The PA concept has grown substantially in the past 40 years. Today, PAs are widely accepted and provide patients with services ranging from general medicine to specialized surgical care. History of the FRANU PA Program The Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University Physician Assistant Program was developed under the direction of Stanley Brown, Ph.D, Dean of the School of Health Sciences. The program’s first class began studies in January 2006. The twenty-two students, 20 to 38 years old from a variety of backgrounds, were enrolled, including paramedics, dental assistants, pharmacy technicians, radiological technologists, and respiratory therapists. The Program is part of the School of Health Professions. It operates on a 28-month calendar with admission to the Program in January of each year. PA Program Mission

Guided by the tradition of compassionate health care exemplified by the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady, the Physician Assistant Program will develop graduates who will provide evidence based, patient centered medical care in diverse settings, and who are committed to serving all God’s people. PA Program Purpose The purpose of the Program is to create and maintain an educational environment that promotes critical thinking as well as clinical knowledge and skills necessary to exercise sound medical decision-making and to provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services to patients across the lifespan, in diverse settings. The program also strives to develop compassionate, professional and ethically-minded clinicians. While PA practice is primarily centered on patient care, PAs will also be prepared to take on educational, research and administrative roles as well. As such, PA student must have an understanding of biostatistics, research methodology and other research principals.

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Technical Standards Physician assistants must have the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to render a wide spectrum of patient care services in a broad variety of clinical situations. Consequently, it is essential that in its admission process, the Physician Assistant Program assesses an applicant’s physical and emotional capabilities as well as his/her scholastic accomplishments and academic potential in order to assure that the applicant can meet the full demands of the Program’s curriculum and graduate as a skilled and effective healthcare provider. In making this assessment, the Program must consider the applicant’s current physical and emotional status, any cumulative or progressive disability, and any drug-induced impairment that may pose obstacles to the safe application of his/her knowledge and skills to the provision of quality care or prevent effective interaction with patients. Applicants will be reviewed individually in this regard on a case-by-case basis. No otherwise qualified individual with a handicap will be automatically excluded from admission. Students are expected to meet the technical standards prior to admission and throughout enrollment. Compliance with standards is critical and mandatory, as the ability to function in the face of uncertainties is inherent in clinical practice. As such, adaptability, flexibility, compassion, integrity, motivation, interpersonal skills, and concern for others are all characteristics demanded of the PA. Any student found in violation of the Technical Standards at any time is at risk for dismissal from the program. As such, PA students must continually demonstrate skills and abilities in the following areas prior to, and throughout enrollment: 1. Observation: Students must be able to demonstrate sufficient capacity to observe demonstrations and

experiments in basic and clinical sciences (including computer-assisted instruction), and must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance or close at hand.

2. Communication: Students must be able to demonstrate sufficient capacity to communicate accurately and with clarity, in oral and written forms, with appropriate respect and sensitivity towards faculty, patients, and all members of the healthcare team.

3. Motor: Students must have sufficient fine and gross motor function to elicit information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion and other diagnostic maneuvers. They must be able to grasp and manipulate tools and equipment using proper technique and stand, sit, walk and move as needed in a patient care setting.

4. Senses: Students must have sufficient use of the senses of vision, hearing, touch, and smell necessary to directly perform a physical examination.

5. Problem solving: Students must demonstrate sufficient ability to learn to measure, calculate, analyze, and synthesize data to reach diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical judgments.

6. Clinical skills: Students must demonstrate sufficient ability to learn and perform routine laboratory tests and diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical procedures. All students will be expected to perform physical examinations on both males and females.

7. Behavioral attributes: Students must possess the emotional health necessary for full utilization of their intellectual abilities, the exercise of sound judgment, the prompt completion of responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients, and the development of mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with faculty, clinical staff and patients.

8. Judgment: Students must be able to learn and demonstrate the ability to recognize limitations to their knowledge, skills and abilities, and to seek appropriate assistance with their identified limitations.

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9. Stability: Students must be able to learn to respond with precise, efficient, and appropriate action in emergency situations.

10. Perseverance: Students are expected to possess the humility to accept criticism, and the diligence to successfully complete the physician assistant curriculum and enter the practice of medicine as a certified physician assistant.

11. Cognition: The physician assistant program is a concentrated and fast-paced program. In addition, physician assistants must often make critical decisions when evaluating patients and must make these decisions in a timely manner. Students must be able to assimilate large amounts of information quickly and efficiently, as well as gather and analyze patient data in a timely manner. Health conditions and/or drugs (prescription, over the counter or "recreational") that alter perceptions, slow responses, or impair judgment are not compatible with success in the program. These may also affect the student's ability to obtain a license or to practice as a physician assistant.

12. Capability: Physician Assistants work in a variety of clinical settings and may be required to stand for

extended periods of time, assist in major surgery, hold retractors, place invasive devices, assist in labor and delivery, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, perform minor surgical procedures, or help move patients. Therefore, students must demonstrate sufficient capability to function safely, effectively, and efficiently in a classroom, laboratory, or clinical facility without any of the following: a surrogate, intermediate, companion (animal or human), translator, or assistive device that would interfere with or not be usable in a surgical or other patient care setting

Prospective candidates to the program must attest to their ability to meet the Technical Standards. Additionally, once admitted, students will again acknowledge understanding of the Technical Standards by signing the Technical Standards Student Attestation upon matriculation into the program. See Appendix A. Student Service/ Work Standard Students enrolled in the PA Program cannot substitute for practicing Physician Assistants or provide unsupervised services common to a certified PA while at any learning or employment site. Students are not staff and therefore employee policies do not apply, nor may the student earn a salary for their services as a Physician Assistant student or work in the PA Program in any other capacity. Students credentialed and/or licensed as other non-PA professionals cannot substitute as faculty in that capacity while in the role of a Physician Assistant student. Students must not serve as clinical or administrative staff during clinic practice experiences. Due to the intensity of the program, it is not recommended that students work during their time as PA students. No scheduling exceptions will be made to accommodate a student’s work schedule during either the didactic or clinical phases. Should a student continue to work during the program and subsequently not meet program-defined benchmarks, the Program Director may require the student to cease his/her employment. Physician Assistant Student Learning Outcomes The PA Program strives to educate future PAs to be competent, compassionate, professional life-long learners of medicine. As such, the program has identified seven learning outcomes based on core Physician Assistant competencies developed by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants and the American Academy of Physician Assistants. As such, upon completion of the program, the graduate should:

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1. Demonstrate a foundation of medical knowledge by applying biomedical, clinical and social sciences to patient care. (MK)

2. Exhibit interpersonal and communication skills that result in effective information exchange with patients, patient's families, and other healthcare professionals (IPC)

3. Provide patient care that is compassionate, appropriate, and effective for the treatment of medical problems and the promotion of health. (PC)

4. Manifest professionalism as evidenced by commitment to carrying out professional and clinical responsibilities, ethical practice, sensitivity to diverse patient populations, and adherence to legal and regulatory requirements. (P)

5. Demonstrate the ability to provide high quality team-based patient care that is safe, effective and efficient (systems-based practice). (SBP)

6. Develop self-directed practice based learning techniques which include the review of medical literature, scientific evidence, and other medical and professional resources. (PBL)

7. Demonstrate Servant leadership by emulating Franciscan values in clinical practice and service to individuals and communities. (SLFV)

PA Program Goals/Outcome Measures In an effort to measure PA Program and student success, the following benchmarks will be utilized for ongoing

assessment:

1. PANCE Pass Rate - Goal/Benchmark: The PA program’s first time PANCE pass rate will be at the national average

annually - Evidence: NCCPA first time pass rate report; published on website

2. Employment Rate - Goal/Benchmark: 100% of the Program’s Graduates will be employed within 6 months of

graduation - Evidence: Graduate/Alumni Survey Data

3. Graduate Profile - Goal/Benchmark: PA graduates will serve diverse patient populations in a variety of clinical

settings: - Evidence: Graduate/Alumni Survey of practice specialties – Ortho, ER, Cardio, etc. and Settings –

urban, rural, hospital based, clinic based, etc. 4. Community Service

- Goal/Benchmark: Students and faculty will actively participate in community service - Evidence: Number of community service activities and professional presentations per academic

year 5. Alumni Engagement

- Goal/Benchmark: At least 15% of graduates from the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University’s PA program will be engaged in the program in a meaningful way

- Evidence: Number of alumni members of the PA alumni association. Number of alumni who serve as guest lecturers, precept clinical students, participate in the admissions process, etc.

PA Program Measures will be evaluated annually. Benchmarks may be raised and or modified based on student performance, changes in the profession or accreditation standards, etc. Student Advising The objective of student advising is to foster students’ professional, academic and clinical development. The advising form was developed to help students reflect on their progress and serves as a conversation starter between the student and his/her advisor. Every student will be assigned an advisor in the first didactic semester. It is the student’s responsibility to schedule mandatory meetings with his/her advisor. Advising occurs at the mid-point and following the conclusion of each semester in the program.

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Students may request additional meetings with their advisor at any point during any semester. During each advising session, the student must present their Health and Safety Compliance form to their advisor. If the student is not compliant, they will not be permitted to continue attending classes or report to their clinical rotation site until compliance is restored. Section III: Academic Policies Advanced Academic Credit FRANU PA Program does not award advanced academic credit or advanced placement toward degree requirements. Didactic Curriculum The didactic phase of the program consists of 4 consecutive semesters (63 graduate credit hours). Sequencing of courses, particularly blocks within the Foundations courses, is subject to change/vary by semester. The curriculum plan can be found at: https://www.franu.edu/academics/academic-programs/physician-assistant-studies-mms The didactic phase utilizes traditional lectures and seminars, case and problem-based learning sessions, service learning, laboratory and simulation experiences to provide the knowledge, and skills necessary for successful advancement to the clinical phase of the program. Course descriptions can be found in the University Catalog. The students’ knowledge and competencies during the didactic phase is assessed by examinations, clinically-oriented assignments and direct observation of knowledge and skills demonstration. Students will also be evaluated on professional development and behaviors in each course. Clinical Curriculum The clinical phase consists of 3 semesters (45 graduate credit hours) of supervised clinical rotations, master’s project and PA seminar. During this phase, students must complete ten 4-week rotations, including 8 core rotations and 2 elective rotations. Core rotations include Primary Care I and II, Hospital/Inpatient Medicine, General surgery, Musculoskeletal Medicine, Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, and Focused topics in Medicine. During the clinical phase, students are expected to build upon their didactic foundation to master the clinical skills necessary for entry level PA practice. Knowledge and competencies are evaluated by the clinical coordinator with input from clinical preceptors, clinical cases/enrichment assignments, end-of-rotation examinations and professional behaviors and responsibilities. Summative Evaluations In addition to the above coursework, students are required to take two comprehensive, multiple choice “Summative Examinations” during the program. Students will take the Summative I Exam at the conclusion of the didactic phase in the Foundations of Clinical Medicine and Surgery V course. The Summative II exam is administered at the end of clinical phase of the program, in the PA Seminar course. Students must achieve the minimum score on each exam as identified by PA Program benchmarks in order to progress and graduate. Any student that fails to meet the program-defined benchmark on either Summative I (70%) or II (80%) will be required to remediate. The remediation plan will be developed by the Academic Coordinator/Clinical Coordinator,

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and approved by the Program Director. Remediation activities will include additional readings and assignments. Following the remediation activities, the student is required to complete the examination again for a maximum grade of 70% on Summative I and 80% on Summative II. Remediation of either Summative exams may delay the student’s progression and/or graduation. If the student fails to meet the benchmark on the re-examination, he/she will be referred to the core faculty committee for further action including program dismissal. ePackrat Upon completion of the didactic and clinical phases, the student must also complete the ePackrat exam. The ePackrat exam was developed by the Physician Assistant Education Association as a benchmarking and self- assessment tool for both students and PA programs. While the PA program does not use the ePackrat results as an evaluation tool for grading students, it does provide valuable information regarding individual student strengths and weaknesses. Further ePackrat II is recognized to strongly correlate with PANCE success. Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) During the last four months of the Program, students will undergo an observed clinical assessment conducted by the program faculty to ensure that the student has the medical knowledge, interpersonal skills, patient care skills and professionalism required for entry into the profession. Failure to meet established benchmarks for the OSCEs will result in the need for remediation. Any student who does not successfully remediate his/her OSCEs will be referred to the core faculty committee for further action including program dismissal. Examination/Quiz/Assignments In the administration of all examinations, quizzes or other forms of assessment, the students and the University have rights, responsibilities, and duties. Students have a responsibility to:

Arrive in advance, be seated and prepared to begin immediately upon the beginning of class.

Demonstrate academic integrity during the testing session. Cheating behavior on a test includes, but is not limited to: talking during test administration, looking on someone else’s computer screen or paper, using notes or resources of any kind, unauthorized access to the test (see ExamSoft Testing Procedures Appendix F).

Use his/her student ID on all examinations that require an ID number (this number is entered in the user profile in ExamSoft by faculty)

Leave all personal belongings outside the testing room. There may be nothing on the desk other than laptop computer, scratch paper and pencil/pen. Food/drink are not allowed in the exam room.

Submit/upload their exam PRIOR to leaving the exam room. Failure to properly submit prior to departure from exam room will be considered cheating. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they receive confirmation of exam upload (green confirmation screen).

In the event a paper exam or quiz is given, the student has the responsibility to hand in his/her paper when time is called. Failure to do so will result in a zero on the exam/quiz.

Students have a right to:

Receive the results of their test.

Discuss their test results with the instructor (with exception of PAEA End of Rotation Exams – see Clinical Phase Manual for details).

Appeal an individual or final grade they feel is incorrect or unfair.

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The University has a duty to:

Assure that results of a test are used in a manner appropriate to the intended purpose.

Assure confidentiality of an individual’s test results. Access will be limited to university officials authorized to review scores.

Provide a clock. Students' Rights Students have the right to know how their work in a course will be evaluated and how those evaluations will determine the course grade. The following information should be available to students in every course, on the first class day:

In the course syllabus/instructor’s supplement to the syllabus: o Explanation of how the final course grade will be determined o Due dates for any work that will be evaluated o Explanation of how and when graded work will be returned to students and how students can

monitor their course performance o Guidelines for discussing a grade if the student thinks it is inaccurate

In the course syllabus/instructor’s supplement and/or as part of the assignment or activity that will be evaluated:

o The criteria that will be used to evaluate the assigned work Students Requiring Accommodations Students that have a documented disability and wish to discuss academic accommodations, please contact the Office of Student Services as soon as possible. The Office of Student Services is located at 5414 Brittany Drive (225) 490-1620. Students requiring testing accommodations as granted by Student Services may be required to report to Student Services for examinations in order to provide the accommodations. Graduate Degree Credit Graduate degree credit is earned for the grades of A, B+, B, C+, and C. Graduate degree credit is not granted for the grades of D+, D, F, I, WS or WU. Grading Scale A = 4 quality points per semester hour B+=3.5 quality points per semester hour (87-89) B = 3 quality points per semester hour C+=2.5 quality points per semester hour (77-79) C = 2 quality points per semester hour D+=1.5 quality points per semester hour (67-69) D = 1 quality points per semester hour F= 0 quality points per semester hour P= passing - quality points are not computed S= satisfactory progress - quality points are not computed U= unsatisfactory progress - quality points are not computed I = incomplete - quality points are not initially computed WA= administrative withdrawal - quality points are not computed W= withdrawal – quality points are not computed AU = Audit (no credit) – quality points are not computed

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No portion of a graduate student’s social security number will be used for posting grades. At the end of each semester, as designated by the PA Program calendar, the Program faculty member responsible for the course will report final grades for all PA students enrolled in the course. “I” Grade Policy In some instances, an incomplete or “I” may be submitted at the end of a PA Program semester for a course in which the student can achieve satisfactory progress. The student must have at least a grade of “C” in the course and 90% attendance up to the deadline. The Course Director will initiate the request to receive an “I” grade and will contact the Office of the Registrar to obtain a request for an “I” grade form. The form must also be signed by the student and the instructor. The form will contain the graduate student’s reasons for requesting an “I”, the instructor’s explicit outline for resolving the “I”, and the deadline by which the “I” grade must be resolved. An “I” grade that has not been resolved by the deadline will be changed to an “F”. The form must finally be approved by the signature of the PA Program Director, and then be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records. In extraordinary cases, the Vice President for Academic Affairs may authorize an extension of time for resolving the grade. Such authorization must be approved by signature, on the Request for an “I” Grade Form. When the “I” grade has been resolved, the Program Director will notify the Office of Admissions and Records to make the necessary grade change. Academic Grade Point Average Student academic performance is measured by computation of the GPA. GPA is calculated by dividing the accumulated number of grade points earned by the accumulated number or credit hours attempted. Grade Appeal Policy All grade appeals must be made no later than one (1) week after the grade is posted on the course management system, work is returned to the student, or final grades are posted in WebServices, unless the course syllabus stipulates different guidelines. The appeal process is as follows:

1. Speak with your instructor regarding the grade issue. 2. If the grade dispute is not resolved with the course instructor the student may initiate a formal grade

appeal. 3. Complete and submit the grade appeal form along with supporting documentation (this form is located

on the University Portal and in the School Dean’s Offices) to the appropriate person. If the student is unsure who to submit the appeal form to please contact the School Dean’s office for guidance.

4. Upon receipt of the appeal form and documentation, the program director/chair/associate dean will notify the instructor that an appeal has been submitted.

5. The program director/chair/associate dean will review the appeal documents, consult with the instructor, and as necessary, request further information from the students.

6. You will be notified of the grade appeal decision within seven business days of receiving the appeal form. 7. If the appeal is denied, the student has the option to appeal the decision with the appropriate School

Dean. Written notification (email or hard copy) must be received within one business day of the appeal denial.

8. Upon written receipt of continuation of appeal notification, the Dean will request documentation from the appeal proceeding from the program/department/director/coordinator/chair/associate dean.

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9. The student will be informed of the final appeal decision in writing within five business days of the Dean’s receipt of continuation of appeal written notification. The decision of the Dean is final, and the student will have no further avenues for the grade appeal.

Complaint and Grievance Procedure Students who feel they have an academic grievance (non‐grade related) should first discuss the problem with the faculty member involved, followed then by the Program Director or Department Chair in the specific program. If the matter has not been resolved at that level, the student should take the issue to the School Dean. For non‐academic and administrative concerns, students should first discuss the problem with the individual involved, then to the Director of the appropriate department. In the unusual case in which this process fails to bring about a satisfactory resolution, any individual may pursue the matter further by submitting a written complaint/concern to complaints@franu.edu. For additional information please see the Complaint and Grievance Policy. Statement of complaint or concern guidelines:

1. Identify and explain the exact nature and circumstance of the complaint or concern including the dates and locations of any specific incidents. This written statement must be submitted within 15 working days of the precipitating event(s), and should be limited to two, double spaced pages.

2. Identify the names of persons or witnesses who have knowledge of any specific incident leading to the complaint/concern, and submit as appendices any available written documentation or evidence thatis relative to the complaint/concern.

3. For academic grievances, the Vice President of Academic Affairs will give consideration to all written submissions of the complaint/concern and will determine the process for addressing it, related to the nature of the complaint/concern. All other types of grievances, other than academic, will be addressed to the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. 36

4. The student submitting the written statement of complaint/concern will receive written notification of action taken to address the complaint/concern from the appropriate Vice President within 5 working days of the statement being received. The decision of the Vice President will be final.

5. There will be no discrimination or retaliation as a result of a student’s exercise of his or her rights under this procedure. The University will prohibit and guard against any form of reprisal that may be directed toward a student who files a complaint. Violation of this prohibition will be met with appropriate disciplinary action.

6. Students have the right to file a grievance directly with the Office of Civil Rights. Contact Information is as follows:

Dallas Office; Office for Civil Rights U.S. Department of Education 1999 Bryan Street, Suite 1620

Dallas, Texas 75201‐6810 Telephone214‐661‐9600

Program Progression Students must comply with the policies of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University and the Physician Assistant program at all times. They are also required to emulate the standards of conduct of the University and abide by the Code of Ethics of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. One hundred eight credit hours are required for completion of the Program. Courses must be taken in the order and at the time indicated on the curriculum schedule. Students must pass all courses (didactic, clinical and practical) and maintain a 3.0 GPA overall in PA courses in order to progress and ultimately earn the master’s degree with no more than two grades of “C” applied to the degree.

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Student performance will be reviewed at the end of each semester, and the conclusion of the didactic and clinical phases by the core faculty committee, who will recommend progression to the clinical phase and/or approve eligibility for graduation. The didactic phase consists of a total of 63 semester credit hours. At the conclusion of the didactic phase of the program, the student must have a GPA of “3.0” or better and meet the program-defined benchmark on the Summative I exam in order to progress to the clinical phase of the program as stated above. During the clinical phase, all students must complete 10 clinical rotations. Failure to meet clinical phase benchmarks will result in need to remediate a portion of, or entire clinical rotation which may delay graduation (refer to the PA Clinical Phase Handbook). Additionally, two additional courses are held during the clinical phase of the Program (PHAS 5725 PA Seminar and PHAS 5790 Master’s Seminar) and must be completed by all students. Students must complete and receive a passing grade on their Masters Project in order to graduate. Finally, during PA Seminar, students must meet the program-defined benchmark of 80% on the Summative II exam. Failure to meet the established benchmark will result in the need to remediate, using same policy as Summative I. Failure to meet the benchmark of 80% on the re-examination after remediation will be referred to the core faculty committee for action including program dismissal. Academic Status Good Standing A PA student achieves the good standing status if:

His/her FRANUC overall average GPA is “3.0” or better in PA courses

He/she has not earned more than 2 C’s in any PA coursework

He/she has abided by all the rules of conduct, ethics, attendance, tardiness policy and has completed all of the requirements of the Program

Academic Probation A PA student may be placed on academic probation in the following circumstances:

The cumulative GPA falls below a 3.0 – or-

A 2nd C is earned during any phase of the program.

In either of the above scenarios, the Program Director, on the recommendation of the core faculty committee, will initiate the process of academic probation. Upon written notice of academic probation, the student must meet with the Program Director to determine/discuss the course of action. The student will continue with classes or rotations while on probation unless otherwise directed by the Program Director. In order to be removed from academic probation, the student must raise his/her GPA to a “3.0” or higher in the subsequent semester. In the event a student has earned two course grades of “C”, they will remain on academic probation for the remainder of the program. If the student’s GPA remains below a “3.0” upon completion of the subsequent semester, the student will be referred to the core faculty committee for further action including program dismissal. Any student who has an overall GPA of less than 3.0 upon completion of semester 4 in the didactic phase may not progress to the clinical phase of the program. Any student who earns a 3rd “C” during the program will be referred to the core faculty committee for program dismissal.

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Academic Dismissal Policy A student will be dismissed from the PA program when he/she:

Receives a final grade of “D+” “D”, “F”, “I”, “W” in any course

Was previously on probation for the previous semester and is unable to achieve an overall GPA of 3.0.

Earns the third “C” in the Program.

Is unable to resolve an “I” grade prior to the first day of the following semester

Fails to demonstrate compliance with the program policies as outlined in other sections. The core faculty committee reviews and makes all recommendations of dismissal on a case-by-case basis. A student who has been dismissed is not eligible for re-admission into the PA Program at FRANU. Student Remediation Policy - Didactic Phase At the graduate level and given the rigor and demands of the program and PA profession, students are expected to complete all coursework with a grade of “B” or higher and maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA. As such, no student may earn more than 2 “C’s” at any time during the program. It is a goal of program faculty to identify students who are performing below benchmark proactively, prior to the course completion. The following describes the remediation policy of the didactic phase:

Any student may visit an instructor/faculty member during posted office hours, or make an appointment at any time to address any questions regarding coursework and/or assignments.

Students may review all didactic tests after they are taken; The ExamSoft testing platform allows the student to review incorrect answers with rationale.

In addition to the above, any student scoring below a 70% on any exam is also required to submit a brief written self- assessment of strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for improvement (time management, study skills/techniques, etc.) to the instructor. The student, with instructor guidance will then develop an independent self-study and remediation plan in preparation for the next exam and final examination. All remediation plans must be forwarded to the Program Director for approval.

Finally, any student who does not score the minimum satisfactory rating on any competency evaluation or practical assignment (defined by the rubric in the syllabus) will be required to remediate that skill.

The PA faculty recognize it is mathematically possible for a student to earn less than a 70% on any course block (ex: Cardiology), and still earn a B (or C) in the course. When this occurs, regardless of passing course grade, the student has not proven competency in that block. These raises concern that the student does not possess the knowledge and skills required to enter the clinical phase or entry-level PA practice. Should this occur, the student may be required to retroactively remediate the block(s) of that course by registering in PHAS 6000 Special Topics in Physician Assistant Studies. PHAS 6000 is a 1-3-hour independent study course used for the purpose of remediation. The determination will be made after instructor/Program Director review of the student’s overall performance including assignments, quizzes, block examination grade and related questions on the course final examination. The student, with instructor guidance will develop remediation goals and activities as outlined by the PHAS 6000 syllabus. A remediation contract is also required. The student will be re-evaluated at the end of the remediation period and must earn an 80% in the remediation course. The grade earned in PHAS 6000 does not replace the previous block grade earned by the student. Student Remediation Policy – Clinical Phase Refer to the Clinical Phase Handbook

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Automatic Withdrawal A PA student who fails to attend class or participate in course activities within the first two weeks of the semester will be automatically withdrawn from the program by the Registrar. The Program Director will notify the Registrar’s Office by the end of second week, and the Registrar will notify the student in writing that he/she has been dropped from the course. Withdrawal from Course A PA student who officially withdraws from a course will receive a “W” (Withdrew) up to and including the last day to withdraw as published in the FRANU calendar. A PA student who discontinues coming to class, or leaves school without following the official procedures for withdrawal or resignation shall receive a grade of “F” posted on his/her record for each course in question and shall be denied permission to re-enter the Program. Resignation Resignation from the PA Program is the “withdrawal from or discontinuation of all courses in which the PA student is enrolled.” To resign officially, a PA student must obtain a Resignation form that must be completed by the student and signed by the Program Director. A PA student who discontinues a class or leaves school after the withdrawal date found in the FRANU Student Handbook Calendar will be subject to receiving a grade of “WF” posted on his/her record for each course in question and/or denial of permission to re-enter the University. A PA student in good standing who resigns from the University or program may be readmitted to the PA Program only after reapplying with recommendation of the program’s admissions committee. Deceleration In some circumstances, a student who for reasons beyond their control feels he/she cannot meet program benchmarks can request deceleration status from the core faculty committee. Deceleration is only available during the first and second didactic semesters, and must be requested prior to mid-term examinations. Once a student formally requests deceleration (in writing, addressed to the Program Director). If deceleration is granted, the student will re-enter the next matriculating class and repeat all previously attempted coursework. A student who earns a third 3 C, or a final grade less than C in the first didactic semester will be dismissed from the program per policy and is therefore not eligible for deceleration. Leaves of Absence A student who is experiencing significant personal stress, health problems/issues, death or critical illness of a family member, military duty or similar significant life event resulting in greater than a 2-week absence from classes may be granted a temporary leave of absence from the program. In order to be eligible for a leave of absence, the student must be in good academic standing in the program. Requests for leaves of absence will be reviewed and approved by the Program Director. The following outlines the program policy regarding leaves of absence:

A first-year student may be granted up to two weeks of personal leave without having to re-join the next cohort provided the student can satisfactorily complete all assignments, quizzes and examinations prior to the semester’s end.

Leaves of absence greater than 2 weeks during the didactic phase will require the student to re-enter the program during the same semester of leave with the next cohort of students (not to exceed one academic year of absence).

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A clinical student requiring a leave of absence up to 8 weeks (2 rotations) must repeat any clinical rotation(s) missed as well the master’s project and PA seminar. Rescheduling of clinical rotations is subject to rotation availability and will result in a delay in graduation from the program. A leave of absence greater than 8 weeks in the clinical phase is left to the discretion of Clinical Coordinator/Program Director.

A student requesting a leave of absence must present a written request and meet with the Program Director. After meeting with the student, the Program Director will approve or deny the request for leave of absence. The Program Director will notify the Registrar and Financial Aid Office of the type of leave of absence and the duration. In total, an official leave of absence for medical or personal reasons may be granted for no longer than one academic year. A medical leave of absence will require supporting documentation from the student’s licensed medical provider. It is the responsibility of the student to notify the Program Director in writing of his/her intention to resume classes or resign from the program at the end of the leave. If the student fails to notify the program, he/she will not be allowed to resume classes and will be dismissed from the program. Any student returning from medical leave of absence must also provide the program with a letter from his/ her physician stating the student is fit to return and capable of meeting the Technical Standards of the program. All notification, including supporting documentation must be submitted prior to the return semester’s registration deadline. A student in good academic standing, who requires an extended leave of absence for more than one year, will be required to apply for re-admission. If graduation requirements change during the leave of absence, the student will be given written notification of the changes and must adhere to the new requirements. Program Withdrawal A student who wishes to withdraw from the PA program should meet his/her advisor to explore all alternatives. If the student still wishes to proceed after this initial meeting, he/she should meet with the Program Director to confirm the decision. Withdrawal from the program may occur at any time while the student is in good standing. Intention to withdraw may be stated in writing with a copy to the Program Director, Registrar, and Financial Aid Officer. Honorable release is granted when all financial obligations to Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University have been met. A refund policy (with a time schedule) is available from the Office of Financial Aid. A student who withdraws can only reenter the program upon reapplication and recommendation of the Admissions Committee unless Deceleration has been granted. Credit will not be granted for previously completed coursework. Graduation Requirements In order to graduate from the program, students must:

Successfully complete all coursework per program policies

Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in PA Program courses with no more than two course grades of “C”

Resolve all indebtedness to Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University

Return all instructional materials, instruments, or other property of the Program Graduation from the FRANU PA Program does not guarantee licensure in any or all states.

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Section IV: Professional Behaviors/Student Conduct Professional Behavior Professionalism, integrity and excellence are the cornerstones of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University and the Physician Assistant Program. Consequently, PA students are expected to be kind, compassionate and patient. They are to consistently demonstrate honesty, service, and respect for others. As such, PA students must adhere to the AAPA Code of Ethics, the Technical Standards described in this document, and to all sections described throughout the PA Student Handbook. Penalties for non-compliance can be found under “Behavior Dismissal Policy.” General Misconduct Failure by a student to adhere to the Regulations Governing Student Behavior is termed “Misconduct”. A student may be formally charged with misconduct for violation of any of the Regulations Governing Student Behavior. In cases of violations of academic integrity (academic honesty/dishonesty) or a student’s failure to adhere to minimum professional standards, the faculty has the authority to assign a grade of “F” (either academic, clinical, or both) for the assignment and/or may refer the case to the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs for action. A student charged with misconduct will retain all University rights until due process is completed, unless there is evidence that the student has done any of the following:

1. Has been convicted of a felony 2. Has been formally charged with the commission of a felony of such nature that the student’s presence on

campus or clinical premises is potentially dangerous to the health and safety of the University or clinical communities

3. Engaged in any activity of such nature that presence on campus is potentially dangerous to the health and safety of the University or clinical communities, whether or not civil charges have been made or penalties imposed. In these situations, the student may be temporarily barred from the campus and clinical premises until due process is completed.

Academic Integrity The FRANU PA student is expected to commit his/herself to personal and academic integrity by being honest, trustworthy, responsible, fair and respectful of others. Therefore, all students are expected to adhere to the Honor Code and Honor Statement. Any formal academic setting relies upon high standards of honesty among its students and its faculty. The University expects both faculty and students to abide by these standards in order to help fulfill the mission of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, which is to provide an educational setting where religious and human values are respected. An important aspect of this process is academic honesty. University faculty and students are expected to apply the principle of academic honesty by consistently displaying honesty and forthrightness in their academic endeavors. Intellectual inquiry can possess value only if it is acquired and presented legitimately – whether in the traditional classroom setting or in any distributed learning course work under taken at FRANU. Any violation of these expectations will be referred immediately to the Faculty Committee. Possible sanctions include probation, required temporary withdrawal, suspension, and program dismissal. Please refer to the FRANU Student Handbook for Academic integrity, Academic Dishonesty and Academic Misconduct. Honor Code

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Students are expected to demonstrate the highest moral and ethical principles as a member of the PA Program. All students enrolled in the program are expected to maintain academic and professional integrity with regard to class assignments, examinations, research, publications, use of electronic technologies, and service. All students are obligated to support the Honor Code and report any violation thereof to the course instructor. Each student will signify subscription to the Honor Code by signing the Honor Statement Form provided in the PA Student Handbook (Appendix C). Violations of the Academic Honor Code will be referred to the core faculty committee for action. Academic dishonesty may result in immediate dismissal from the program. Please refer to the following sections of the FRANU Student Handbook: Academic Dishonesty, General Academic Misconduct, and Disciplinary Procedures for ALL Misconduct. In addition, the PA Program at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University abides by the Code of Ethics of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (Appendix B). The Graduate Student Honor Code:

We, the graduate student body of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, embrace the idea that honor is an intangible quality, which, if it pervades all phases of campus life, tends to foster a spirit of dignity and personal integrity. Upon enrolling at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, we become part of the FRANU Honor System. We realize that honor must be cultivated and that its success depends upon the combined and cooperative efforts of the University’s administration, faculty, staff, and graduate students. Inherent in the honor system is the premise that graduate students will not perform or tolerate any violations of the Regulations Governing Graduate Student Behavior published in Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University PA Student Handbook. As responsible members of the community of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, each of us freely accepts and proudly endorses this, our code of honor.

Approved for publication with revision by the Faculty Assembly on 5-26-98 Plagiarism Plagiarism is submitting work that is not entirely your own for credit. All course work students submit for credit must be entirely their own work. Students must avoid plagiarism by fully and properly documenting any use of outside sources. All of the following are examples of plagiarism (but are not limited to):

A student downloads a paper from the Internet, prints it out with his name on it, and turns it in for a grade.

A student has her friend write a paper for her and turns it in with her own name on it.

A student copies various sections of a magazine article and pieces together a paper, making no mention of the magazine article and in no way indicating that he used it.

A student turns in a paper that she wrote, but the paper includes a paragraph that was copied from a source that the student does not acknowledge.

A student turns in a paper in which parts of the paper are taken word-for-word from other sources. Some of the sources are listed on a references page, works cited page, or bibliography that accompanies the paper, but there are no quotation marks indicating that the student used exact wording from other sources.

A student turns in a paper that includes specific ideas about how Medicaid could be improved. The ideas are in the student’s own words, but the student got the ideas from a web site. There is no acknowledgement of the web site as a source.

There are penalties for plagiarizing. The maximum penalty is dismissal from the University.

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Please refer to the following sections of the FRANU Student Handbook: Academic Dishonesty, General Academic Misconduct, and Disciplinary Procedures for ALL Misconduct. Human Relations Code of Conduct Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University PA Program is committed to the promotion of personal and professional development of all individuals in its community, and encourages dialogue that will foster growth, well-being, and dignity of all its members. In pursuit of these goals, the school is dedicated to maintaining an environment which places the highest priority on collegial relationships, mutual respect and sensitivity amongst its students, faculty, and staff. An educational and caring community functions best when there is civility and respect for the dignity and worth of each individual. These principles of respect and compassion are equally applicable to the patients who are served. It must be ensured that the school is free from discrimination and acts of intolerance including but not limited to those based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, illness, physical handicap, or socioeconomic background. This commitment remains constant with the obligation to protect open and wide-ranging public discourse. The principle of freedom of expression that might otherwise protect even the most offensive public speech does not protect, nor does it even encompass, a right to threaten the dignity and privacy of an individual. Such personally directed behavior will not be tolerated; it is antithetical to academic values, debilitates its victims, comprises the offenders, and undermines the university’s fundamental commitment to individual freedom and respect for all its members. Furthermore, acts of intolerance may destroy the very atmosphere wherein freedom of expression is otherwise tolerated and cherished. Please refer to the FRANU Student Handbook under sections: General regulations Governing Student Behavior, Civility, Respect and Human Dignity, and Behaviors which are Strictly Prohibited, Disciplinary Procedures for ALL Misconduct. Sexual Harassment FRANU prohibits sexual harassment within the organization. Harassment in any form is considered reprehensible and will not be tolerated. For defined examples of sexual harassment and procedures for filing a complaint of harassment by an employee or student, refer to the Sexual Harassment Policy at the end of this document. The Physician Assistant Program expressly prohibits students from being romantically involved with, or dating any faculty or staff member at the University or preceptors at clinical rotation sites. Students are not permitted to socialize in any way with faculty, staff or preceptors outside the work/clinical environment. This includes resident physicians and other student learners. Classroom Recordings Recording of classroom lectures, meetings, advising appointments, or interactions with clinical preceptors by any means is NOT permitted.

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Cell Phone Use The use of cell phones during class is very disruptive to the learning environment. As such, cell phones must be turned off or set on silent mode in class, and stowed away. There may be times when cell phones are utilized for polls/games in class. In this case, students are expected to stow their phones as soon as the activity is completed. Smart watches are not allowed to be worn during exams/class exercises/assignments. Substance Use FRANU PA program will not tolerate the use of illegal drugs or the abuse of alcohol. Students are required to submit to a drug test prior to entering the program, and may be tested periodically at random or for cause/suspicion. Please refer to the Drug and Alcohol Policy in the FRANU Student Handbook. Additionally, some prescription drugs may interfere with cognitive and motor skills. As such, students taking such medications may be in violation of program Technical Standards and may be required to take a medical leave of absence and/or be dismissed from the program. Computer/Laptop Use Personal laptops will be used during scheduled examinations. Students are required to purchase and maintain a screen protector for use during examinations. Laptops must be compatible with the ExamSoft and Examdriver web-based testing applications at all times. Students are responsible for applying any periodic software/operating system updates in order to support testing applications. Failure to comply with the computer/laptop use policy will result in disciplinary action. Students may not use PA program or any University office computers. Under no circumstances, should a didactic or clinical student share computer usernames or passwords with other students, faculty or clinical preceptors. Doing so represents a severe breach of professionalism, confidentiality and in the clinical setting has even more significant implications. Sharing of usernames/passwords will result in disciplinary action up to and including program dismissal. Social Media The University’s primary concern regarding social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms involves the safety of students as well as the integrity of University and its community. The University is aware that students may wish to express their personal ideas and opinions through private social media that are not administered by the University. Nevertheless, students should be aware that the University Student Code of Conduct applies to uses of private social media platforms or communications resources that reflect poorly on the University. Guidelines to follow regarding social media use:

Avoid posting personal information like addresses, cell phone numbers, etc.

Do not make references to alcohol or drugs in photos or blogs.

Do not post explicit pictures.

Do not post negative references to your classmates, instructors, or staff.

Logos and pictures posted on the University’s website are copyrighted and cannot be used without University permission.

Note that students participating in clinical training at a medical facility are subject to that facility’s policies and should be cognizant of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule when using social media. Students participating in clinical training at Our Lady of the Lake Regional

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Medical Center (RMC) are subject to the RMC Social Media Policy for Team Members. The PA program prohibits any form of information sharing about fellow students’ academic progress or performance, and all references to clinical work where such sharing could have patient health and legal ramifications according to federal HIPAA regulations. The potential consequences for social networking violations of the Community Creed and Student Honor Code are significant, as are the appropriate disciplinary actions specific violations may warrant. Posting of unprofessional content or private information about FRANU, university programs, patients, students, PA profession or faculty online in any website, blog, social site or forum is prohibited. Doing so is a breach of professional behavior and ethics. Incidents will be referred to the core faculty committee for action including possible program dismissal. Interactions with Instructors/Preceptors Instruction may periodically require physical contact between faculty, preceptors and students for the purpose of physically guiding appropriate techniques, i.e. Physical Assessment, Clinical Medical Skills and other didactic and clinical situations that may involve demonstrations. The student’s signature on the form found in Appendix D indicates his/her understanding that this is an appropriate and necessary part of instruction, and the student does accept this practice. Interactions with Guest Lecturers Guest lecturers are providing their time and expertise to enhance student learning. It is an unfair and unprofessional abuse of their kindness to approach a guest lecturer with personal or family related medical questions. Additionally, being approached by students may deter a guest from returning to lecture. If this behavior occurs, the student will be subject to disciplinary action. Student Identification Students are required at all times to wear a university-provided photo ID badge. This badge clearly identifies the individual as a Physician Assistant student. ID badges must be worn and visible while on campus, clinical rotation or University-sponsored activity for security reasons. Clinical rotation sites may require additional identification and ID badges to be worn. All students must identify themselves as “PA students” upon initial contact with Physicians, Allied health professionals, patients or staff. To misrepresent one’s self as a practicing physician assistant or another health care provider is considered a major violation of the profession’s Code of Ethics. Such a violation will be subject to disciplinary action up to program dismissal. Dress Code Physician Assistant students represent a growing profession and should dress appropriately. Classroom attire/clinical attire shall be neat and clean. Personal hygiene should be maintained at all times. Students shall be well groomed at all times. If there is any question, seek advice from a PA program faculty member. Students will wear professional dress to class and clinical rotations. Exceptions include lab or practical classes, during which time program-approved scrubs may be worn. During the clinical phase, the student may wear program-approved scrubs if clinically appropriate and approved by the preceptor. It is expected students on surgical rotations will change into proper surgical scrubs at the facility. Surgical scrubs may not be worn outside the operating room area, and therefore, are not to be removed from the facility. The removal of any surgical scrubs from any facility constitutes theft and is subject to disciplinary action.

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In an instance where a student has a spiritual or cultural barrier to maintaining the PA Program dress code, the program requires a written statement from the student’s religious or cultural leader outlining the acceptable guidelines. Every attempt to accommodate the student’s religious or cultural beliefs, while maintaining standards of care as well as safety and security of patients, will be made. The following are the details of requirements for professional attire:

Shirts: Professional-appearing, pressed shirts for males and blouse for women should be worn. Shirts should be tucked in at all times. Blouses for females may not display any visible cleavage.

Pants: Professional attire includes dress slacks for both men and women. They must be worn at the waist with a belt. Extremely low-rise slacks and outside pockets are not permitted. Slacks must be ankle-length with a finished hem (either cuffed or hemmed) which is not frayed, slit, or torn. Pants must fit the student appropriately, being neither discernibly tight nor loose. Yoga pants are not permitted.

Skirts/Dresses: Must reach the knee. Skirts must be appropriately fitted, neither tight nor loose. Material may not be constructed of denim, spandex, leather-like materials or have the “worn” look.

Shoes: Professional dress shoes must be worn at all times. For women, closed toe shoes are required, and the heels must be less than two inches. Extremely casual shoes including sandals, flip flops, and “crocs” are prohibited. Modest tennis shoes or clogs may be worn on clinical days with scrubs or in the operating room setting.

Socks: Men must wear socks at all times and should cover the ankles. Women shall use good judgment.

Tattoos: No body tattoos are permitted to be visible during the didactic or clinical phase of the program.

Piercings: Visible body piercings are not permitted except for single, button or post earrings.

Necklaces and/or bracelets should not be worn in the clinical setting. Rings are not permitted in the operating room/or during sterile procedures.

Hair: Students are expected to sustain clean, well-groomed hair that does not obstruct their vision in any way. Only natural colors are allowed. Facial hair must be minimal and maintained/trimmed in a natural/short fashion at all times.

Makeup: Makeup should not be heavy or “overdone”.

Fingernails: Fingernails should be adequately trimmed in order to facilitate the performance of a medical examination. Nails must be natural and polish-free during the clinical phase. False fingernails, shellac and gel nails are known to harbor bacteria are not permitted during the clinical phase of the program.

More “formal attire” may be required for guest lecturers/special events. Lab Coats Short, white, program approved lab coats with the University emblem on the left side and the student’s name on the right side are required to be worn during the clinical phase of the program at all times while in patient care areas outside the operating room. Three quarter length, or long white coats may not be worn by PA students. ID badges shall be worn at all times. Attendance/Classroom Preparedness Didactic Phase To facilitate and maximize learning opportunities, attendance at all scheduled didactic and clinical sessions in the PA program is expected and required. Students have a responsibility to take advantage of the learning opportunities available to them. Attendance and timeliness in the classroom is viewed as an indicator of the student’s future attendance and timeliness as a clinician, and as such, is considered a professional behavior. Additionally, poor class attendance detracts from the educational experience of any student. Students are responsible for classroom preparedness by reviewing the course syllabus and reading the appropriate textbook sections, reviewing posted PowerPoint presentations or other materials provided by the instructor.

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Information from required textbooks, lectures, handouts, presentations or any other educational method may be utilized for examination purposes. Further reading from approved websites, journals, and other publications is highly encouraged and expected for academic success. Those students with children need to have a varied support network for childcare. Children may not be brought to class. Attendance will be monitored by the Course Director. All absences must be reported by the student to the Course Director as well as the program office. Anticipated absences should be discussed with the Course Director as early as possible. Unanticipated absences should be discussed with the Course Director (not guest lecturer) as soon as possible to make certain the student is safe, and to ensure that any missed class materials were obtained from classmates. Absences or tardiness may result in loss of points or a zero for any assignment, quiz, or exam scheduled on that date. Students should refer to the course policies found on the course syllabi. Students with a pattern of absences may be counseled as a part of the professional behavior assessment. If this does not cause the desired improvement in attendance, the student may be presented to the core faculty committee for disciplinary action. Prolonged or repeated absences may make it difficult or impossible to satisfactorily continue in the program. The Program reserves the right to assess attendance records of students who have prolonged absences (greater than 1 week) to determine the student’s ability to progress through the curriculum. A student with extended absences may be asked to take a leave of absence or withdraw/resign from the program. A schedule of breaks and holidays is distributed to each student upon matriculation. Vacations and holidays begin at 8 pm, on the last day prior to a scheduled day off/holiday unless otherwise indicated by the Program Director. Exceptions to attendance policies will not be made for personal vacations/travel for any reason. Clinical Phase The clinical rotation schedule is published prior to the clinical phase. All rotations are 4 weeks in duration. During months that contain 5 weeks, students will have time for personal appointments/business. Students should not plan to leave town during these non-clinical weeks as this time is also reserved for official program business and/or remediation activities should the student require. While on clinical rotations, the student is representing the entire FRANU PA student body/program to the medical community at large. High quality and safe patient care requires the health care professional to report to his or her duties as scheduled and on time. As such, regular attendance is expected during the clinical phase of the program in order to maximize student learning and maintain relationships with clinical preceptors. Students are required to participate in regular, on-call, weekend, and holiday schedules of each individual clinical site. Campus, religious or personal holidays do not apply during the clinical phase of the program. Students are not permitted to arrive late to a rotation or leave early without the permission of the clinical coordinator and the preceptor. If a student plans to be absent from a rotation site for ANY reason, the clinical coordinator must be notified immediately. The clinical coordinator will then determine the best mechanism for alerting the clinical preceptor of the absence.

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Time missed from a rotation for ANY reason, the hours MUST be made up, regardless of reason. This may occur during another month if time permits, or at the END of the clinical phase, which may result in a delay of graduation Because of the short duration of clinical rotations, excessive time missed on any particular rotation may result in the need to repeat the entire rotation. Excessive absences in the clinical phase of the program are defined as more than 2 absences per rotation and more than 4 absences per semester. Excessive absences in clinical phase may lead to disciplinary action by the core faculty committee and may include dismissal from the program. Clinical students may take one personal day per semester during the entire clinical phase. Use of the personal days must be approved at least two weeks in advance, by the Clinical Coordinator and clinical preceptor. Otherwise, no special accommodations are made for planned absences during the clinical phase of the program. This includes weddings, birthdays, family reunions, personal vacations, job interviews or other planned events. Personal days cannot be used on any rotation during which the student has already missed 2 days. Additionally personal days may not be used during Special Topics (OB/GYN and Psychiatry), due to the shorter duration of those rotations. Tardiness Tardiness is defined as reporting late for assigned duties including the classroom and clinical rotations. Throughout the didactic phase, students are to be in class, seated and ready at the moment that class commences. Patterns of excessive tardiness will result in counseling by the Course Director, Academic or Clinical Coordinator and reported to the Program Director/core clinical faculty committee. All counseling sessions related to tardiness will be documented and become part of the student’s permanent file. Continued tardiness may result in disciplinary action including program dismissal. Examples: “Late” for the didactic phase is not being in your seat, your study materials on the desk, and prepared to begin class when the class start time occurs. “Late” for the Clinical phase of the program is not being at your assigned station and prepared to begin work when the start time occurs. Criminal Activity Any PA student who is arrested is obligated to self-report this to the Program Director. Arrests during the didactic phase must be reported within 48 hours. Arrests during the clinical phase may result in ineligibility to rotate at particular rotation sites and therefore must be reported within 24 hours of arrest. The core faculty will determine based on University policies if the student can remain in the program. Failure to self-report an arrest during any phase of the program will result in the student’s dismissal from the program. Should a student be arrested or convicted of a crime prior to the time he/she is prepared to enter the profession, the criminal record may have further implications for the student’s eligibility to practice. Students should be aware of state and federal or professional restrictions barring the practice of individuals with criminal records. Graduation from the FRANU PA Program does not guarantee eligibility to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying exam or PA licensure in any or all states. Violations of Program Policies Students found to be non-compliant with any of the above professional policies of the program are at risk for program dismissal. Non-compliant behaviors include, but are not limited to issues such as attendance, attire, professional behavior and adherence to Technical Standards. Disciplinary action will proceed as outlined below through the core faculty committee.

1st offense -Written warning/counseling

2nd offense - Probationary status (Non-academic Probation)

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3rd offense - Dismissal from the program If the behavior offense is egregious as determined by the core faculty committee, the student may be dismissed for the program immediately. A student may also be terminated without a probationary period or suspension for infractions which include:

Endangering the safety of patients, coworkers, faculty and fellow students

Refusing a drug test

Engaging in theft of hospital, university or program property

Falsifying documents or medical records

Non-compliance of any PA program or University policy

A student who has been dismissed from the PA program is ineligible to continue PA courses and may not reapply as a matriculating or non-matriculating student. All appeals must follow the guidelines documented below under “Appeals.” Suspension A student may be placed on administrative suspension while the Program Director is conducting an investigation of an alleged violation of policies, rules, or requirements. Suspension may be up to 7 weekdays in length. Time missed during clinical rotations due to suspension must be made up before graduation from the program. A student will be suspended from attending class or participating in a clinical rotation until such time as the student is in compliance with program and University policy. Suspension may also be used as a penalty for breach of any program policy. A second suspension during the course of the program is grounds for dismissal from the Program. Section V: General Program and University Policies Transfer Policy The PA Program does not accept transfer students. There is no advanced placement of students in the PA Program Tuition and Fees Please refer to the PA web site page for current tuition and fees. Tuition and Fee Refund Policy When a student officially drops courses, withdraws from courses, or resigns from the University, his/her account will be credited with a refund of tuition and fees charged for the courses based on the following refund policy. Students must follow University procedures and adhere to published deadlines when dropping, withdrawing, or resigning. If a student is de-registered by the University for any reason, the University reserves the right to refund the student according to this schedule using the effective date of de-registration to determine the percentage refunded. 100% Tuition through 1st week 100% Fees through last day to add classes 75% Tuition through 2nd week 0% Fees after last day to add classes 50% Tuition through 3rd week 25% Tuition through 4th week 0% Tuition after 4th week

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Please note refund percentages are not based on the number of class meetings or whether the student has attended class. Special note to financial aid recipients regarding resignation: Per federal regulation, the University must determine the amount of federal financial aid to be returned to the federal programs for students who withdraw after receiving federal financial aid. This includes students who officially resign and students who are determined to have unofficially resigned. Students considering withdrawal/resignation should contact the Office of Financial Aid to determine any potential effects on aid already received for the semester. If the return of un-earned aid results in a balance on a student’s account, the student is responsible for paying that balance to the University. Unpaid balances are subject to the policies detailed in the past-due balances section. Financial Aid All students are strongly encouraged to explore their eligibility and options for financial aid through the Financial Aid Office. Responsibility for meeting educational expenses rests with the student. Students applying for financial aid may be eligible for all standard sources of state and federal assistance. Information on various financial aid opportunities available to PA students is available through the FRANU Financial Aid Office. Student Services

Students with personal issues which may impact their progress in the PA Program will be referred by PA Program faculty to Student Services. Student Services provides a wide variety of services to students including:

Counseling by professional counselors

Personal, Academic and Career counseling

Disability services FRANU Computer Use As a user of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University computer facilities, each student agrees to abide by the following provisions:

1. The student agrees to abide by any patent or copyright restrictions that may relate to the use of computer facilities, products, programs, or documentation. Students agree not to copy, disclose, modify or transfer computer programs/applications that they did not create, without the expressed consent of the original author. The student agrees not to use any Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University equipment or software to violate the terms of any software License Agreement, or any applicable local, state, or federal laws. Students further agree not to tamper with or in any way modify the equipment to which they have access.

2. Students agree not to use Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University equipment or software for any form of private financial gain.

3. Students agree to carefully and responsibly use any computer devices made available to them, and to recognize that they assume full responsibility for any loss, damage, or destruction of such devices caused by their negligence, misuse, abuse, or carelessness. Any problems should be reported immediately to the Coordinator of Administrative and Academic Computing.

4. Users are prohibited from installing, storing or using unlicensed software on FRANUC computers. Transmission of such software over either the FRANUC or FRANURMC network is prohibited.

5. Students agree not to take any actions that constitute inappropriate behavior. The following list provides specific examples of inappropriate behavior, but is not intended to enumerate all possible instances:

a. Intentionally infecting the network server or other computers with a virus. b. Sending harassing messages to other computer users either at FRANUC or through external

networks.

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c. Using inappropriate or abusive language to other users, students, faculty, or staff. d. Engaging in any behavior that causes distractions to other users (e.g. loud radios, loud

conversations, shouting, etc.) e. Obtaining additional resources not authorized to individual user. f. Depriving other users of authorized resources. g. Acquiring access to unauthorized systems. h. Utilizing another user’s account and password

Student Records To comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, commonly called FERPA or the Buckley Amendment, the administration of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University informs students of their rights under this Act. The law affords students’ rights of access to educational records and partially protects students from the release and disclosure of those records to third parties. Educational records are those records, files and other materials that contain information directly related to a student’s academic progress, financial status, medical condition, etc., and are maintained by the University or a party acting on behalf of the University. Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student’s educational records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may charge a fee for copies. For more information, please refer to the FRANU Student Handbook. Falsification of Records/Information Each student is expected to complete all university and patient care records with accuracy and honesty. This includes but is not limited to, PA program records, patient logs, clinical records, incident reports and evaluations. Falsification of records will result in disciplinary action up to and including program dismissal. If a preceptor requires a student to falsify a patient record or any other document, this should be reported to the Clinical Coordinator and/or the Program Director immediately. Privacy/Confidentiality Students are not allowed behind faculty/staff desks for any reason, nor are they allowed to use any Program, office or classroom computers without explicit permission. Students should never be in any staff or faculty office without express permission of the appropriate staff or faculty member. Viewing faculty computer screens or taking pictures of computer screens without explicit permission is prohibited. Mail/Letterhead Student may not use the Program as a mailing address. University of Program letterhead should not be used by students for personal correspondence, expressions of personal opinion, or for solicitations. PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING HARASSMENT, SEXUAL HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION OR SEXUAL MISCONDUCT Please refer to the University Student Handbook for definitions related to harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination and sexual misconduct. In the event of an incident that appears to constitute sexual harassment or discrimination, or you are a victim of If you are a victim of sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking, a complaint should be filed directly to the Title IX Coordinator; a faculty member, staff member, or fellow student may also file a complaint on behalf of a student who has experienced possible harassment. If the Title IX Coordinator is unavailable or

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inappropriate to contact, a written complaint may be submitted to the next step in administration. Students have the right to pursue disciplinary action if the accused student is also a University student. For on campus disciplinary actions in cases of alleged sexual offense, both the accuser and the accused are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during a campus disciplinary proceeding and will be informed of the outcome of any campus disciplinary proceedings. Options for Students after a Sexual Misconduct Incident Students are advised to do the following:

Get to a safe location

Call 911 to file a police report or call Lake Security at 765‐8825

Get medical attention, but do not bathe, change clothes or otherwise clean up until proper health care and law enforcement officials have talked to you and treated you.

Students are urged to notify Student Affairs at 490‐1620 so that appropriate actions can be taken and so students can receive support, counseling referrals, and other pertinent types of information.

Victims of sexual offenses have the option to decline reporting General Support for Students

Campus security will use all reasonable means to protect the survivor and prevent further violence.

Counseling is also available for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault through our Counseling Services within Student Affairs and by referral to off‐campus agencies.

Campus Health and Safety Director can meet with students to advise on safety and health concerns. Additionally this Director can work with Lake Security and police as appropriate and needed. 12

24‐ Hour statewide hotline for IRIS Domestic Violence Program is available at 1‐888‐ 411‐1333. The institution will consider reasonable academic accommodations to the survivors of alleged sexual offenses. Students shall be notified of the options for changing academic situations. Please refer to the Campus Safety & Security Booklet for more details which is available on the University Portal Campus Safety Page. Section VI: Student Health and Safety Services

The Department of Student Health and Safety Services:

Coordinates services to assist new and transfer graduate students in completing immunization requirements.

Coordinates services to assist health career graduate students in completing clinical program health requirements.

Provides for first-aid kits in each campus building for treating minor injuries.

Provides health-related brochures, newsletters, and other health information.

Provides health and safety-related workshops and campus displays.

Reviews and maintains confidential graduate student health records.

Provides confidential consultation to graduate students regarding health matters. Additional health services are available to graduate students at the following locations: Total Occupational Medicine Clinic: 924-4460 (3333 Drusilla Lane) provides services to FRANU graduate students at discounted rates. MMR and TD immunizations are available for Arts and Sciences graduate students. All clinical graduate students may obtain their pre-entrance physical, TB skin test, Hepatitis vaccine, and MMR and TD immunizations at Calais Occupational Medicine Clinic. No appointment is necessary, but you must show your graduate student I.D. Payment is due at time of service and may be paid by cash, check, Visa, or MC. Medical Plaza Pharmacy: 765-8951

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Graduate students enrolled in professional degree or certificate programs may obtain prescription drugs from the Medical Plaza Pharmacy at the same discount as hospital employees. To receive the discount, graduate students must present their program nametag at the same time they present a prescription to be filled. The Medical Plaza Pharmacy is located in the lobby of Medical Plaza II, directly across the street from the Nursing Building on Hennessy Blvd. Physician Referral Service: 765-7777 Graduate students may utilize the Physician Referral Service offered through Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. Lake Line Direct 765-LAKE (5253) or toll free 1-877-765-5253. Graduate students may utilize this community service of Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center for free 24-hour nurse advice. Graduate student Health Insurance Contact the Office of Health and Safety at 768-1755, which is located in the Student Services Building at 7525 Picardy Dr. Professional Liability Insurance (Malpractice) Clinical students of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University are enrolled on an annual basis for Student Professional Liability Insurance. Professional Liability insurance protects the named insured against claims arising from real or alleged errors or omissions, including negligence, in the course of their professional activities. It also provides coverage for future claims arising from incidents that occurred while the policy was in force. For more information, contact the Office of Health and Safety.

PA Program Health and CPR Requirements Upon acceptance into the PA Program, students will receive a health packet detailing the health and CPR requirements. PA students are required to submit evidence of compliance with the drug screen and background check prior to matriculation. Students who fail to meet these requirements and deadlines are subject to disciplinary action by the core faculty committee.

Immunizations

PA students are required to have the following immunizations prior to, and throughout their enrollment. The student is responsible for providing the initial documentation of their health records as well as submitting the proof of ongoing compliance.

Measles Titer Results- positive Measles antibody IgG titer.

Rubella Titer Results- positive Rubella IgG antibody titer.

Mumps Titer Results– positive Mumps antibody IgG, EIA Serum Titer

Meningitis Vaccine or waiver - One (1) dose of Menomune® (MPSV4) or Menactra (MCV4) preferably at entrance into college. May not be waived by PA and Clinical Lab Students

Tetanus-diphtheria - (a.k.a. Td, DT, DTP, DTaP, Tdap) -Must be within last 10 years and take you through the entire semester for compliancy. -If you cannot show proof of vaccination, you must get another Td vaccine.

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Hepatitis B — series of (3) vaccines or positive HBV Surface Antibody Quantitative Titer

Varicella (Chickenpox) Titer Results –positive Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody IgG titer as interpreted by lab.

Tuberculosis (TB Skin Test) – Must be completed within 6 weeks of clinical assignment. The TB test is required to be done annually and it must take you through the entire semester for compliance.

***If test is positive with 10mm induration or (5mm induration with exposure to person with active TB)-you must be referred to the local Parish Health Unit for chest x-ray and follow up where they will issue medication. You must bring us written proof from the health unit that you are following TB protocol. A TB screen will be required annually (contact Health & Safety Office for more details).

Influenza- Documentation of current flu vaccine

Physical Exam

PA students are required to have physicals done upon entering the program. Your program will issue a health packet containing all necessary forms and those must be completed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.

Drug Screening

All PA students must sign consent and release forms to submit to a drug-screening test. All applicants must be cleared before enrollment. PA students are required to obtain drug screens at various times during the didactic and clinical phase of the Program. Students who fail a drug screen will be referred to the Program Director. Use of substances that impair judgement, cognition or coordination is in direct violation of the program’s Technical Standards, and may result in program dismissal.

Criminal Background Check

Enrollment in the PA program is contingent upon passing a criminal background check. The University’s general admission and clinical program admission application forms require students to disclose any prior criminal convictions and/or arrests. The background check process is designed to meet agency requirements and insure the accuracy of students’ self -reports. Cases where students have not answered the background question on the application accurately will be dealt with severely and, at a minimum, result in the student being placed on administrative probation. Additionally, the PA program cannot guarantee a student who failed to self-report a prior arrest will be eligible to sit for the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) and/or obtain a state medical license.

Students in other clinical programs will have criminal background checks conducted by Ba ckground Research Solutions (BR-Solutions.net). Students will receive information on the procedure for completing the criminal background checks in the student health packet. Student health packets will be issued after the student has been accepted.

Students may be required to complete an additional background check through the Louisiana Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information as required by individual clinical sites.

Students who fail a criminal background check will be referred to the Program D irector. Serious offenses such as assault, rape, theft, etc. are not consistent with the student code of conduct or ethical guidelines for PA practice, and may result in program dismissal.

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CPR

All PA students at FRANU are required to submit evidence of current certification in Health Care Provider CPR. The certification must be from the American Heart Association and have completed the cognitive and skills evaluations in accordance with the curriculum of the American Heart Association Basic Life Support Program. Note: Heart Saver CPR and Red Cross do NOT meet this requirement. Advanced Cardiac Life Support

All PA students must receive Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification prior to entering clinical rotations as part of their clinical credentialing process. This certification course is provided by the PA faculty as part of the PA curriculum. All students must participate in the training, even those who were previously certified. Health Insurance

PA students are required to carry personal health insurance coverage for the entire time they are enrolled in the Program. All students are personally responsible for health care costs associated with any injury sustained while enrolled in the clinical courses. Clinical students are at increased risk for injury or illness due to the nature of providing health care services in clinical/health care settings. Brochures and information on student health insurance plans are available from the Health and Safety Office. Financial Responsibility for Health Care The graduate student is responsible for the payment of all financial obligations incurred in securing healthcare including: Physicians’ charges and expenses incurred in physical examinations, outpatient services: x-ray, laboratory, and emergency room charges and medication purchased from the hospital pharmacy.

Maintenance and Storage of Physician Assistant Student Health Records Student health records are completely confidential and are maintained separately from academic records. Health records may be released only with the student's written consent. Student health records will be stored for a period of three years following the last semester enrolled at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University. Hard copy health documents stored longer than this three-year period will be destroyed. Health data submitted by students after 1995 will continue to be maintained in electronic format. A report summarizing the dates of all immunizations submitted to the University by a student is available upon request, with appropriately executed authorization. A Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant authorization form for this purpose is available on the University’s Web site. Campus Safety and Security The safety policy for FRANU can be located at https://www.franu.edu/campus-safety. It is the student’s responsibility to review the Safety Plan for each individual off -campus clinical site where the student is assigned. Clinical Coordinators will assure that a safety plan is in place for each clinical site. Campus Emergencies

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If there is an emergency, please call 911, then, notify the on-duty policeman at 225-202-7890 and the Health and Safety Department at 225-768-1755. Parking Policy Students are required to follow the Parking Policy as displayed in the current FRANU Student Handbook. Firearms and Weapons Policy The unauthorized possession of firearms, knives or weapons is prohibited on FRANU campus. The possession of such weapons on campus or at a clinical rotation site may result in disciplinary action up to, and including program dismissal. Illness/Injury Policy All PA students with health conditions (illnesses/infections/injury) which necessitate an extended absence of two or more days must discuss their situations with the Course Director/Clinical Coordinator. The student may be allowed to return to class/rotation with the written approval of his or her physician. Faculty members are not allowed to treat any student’s medical condition or write prescriptions for students or their family members. Inclement Weather Policy Didactic students will be notified of any University/Program closures due to inclement weather via text alert, email and/or university website announcement. Clinical students who are not able to safely travel to their clinical site during inclement weather will not be expected to report for assigned duties. It is recognized however, that as future health care professionals, PAs are often called to work during and after severe weather events, and as such, there are valuable learning opportunities during these times. This will be left to the discretion of the individual student and the Clinical Coordinator. It should be noted that attendance policies still apply to absences due to weather, and any clinical student may be required to make up missed clinical time. Clinical Laboratory Policy

Those courses, which incorporate the teaching of exam or procedural skills in the classroom or lab, will provide mannequins/models for graduate practice. No graduate student will be required to serve as a live model for practice of these invasive skills. In the event a graduate student wishes to participate in live model practice, they must sign the ‘GRADUATE STUDENT RELEASE TO PERFORM INVASIVE PROCEDURES DURING LABORATORY PRACTICE FORM’. “Clean” Needle Stick Policy

In the event of a “clean” needle stick, first aid is rendered to the injured person and referral made to the FRANURMC Emergency Care Unit or the graduate student’s personal physician. Details of the incident and the referral made must be documented on a University Incident Report and forwarded to the Health and Safety Office. Needle sticks in any other setting must follow the full exposure control protocol.

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Blood and Body Fluid Exposure Protocol PA students are treated for exposure to blood and body fluids during clinical rotation according to the protocol of the clinical facility. The cost of treatment is paid for by the PA student's primary health insurance. If the student does not have health insurance, then the student is personally responsible. The exposure protocol followed by Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center is in the Health and Safety Office Manual.

Latex Allergy Policy All PA students are to report contact dermatitis or latex allergy symptoms to the Program Director and the Health & Safety Office. Latex allergy symptoms include skin rashes, hives, flushing, itching, nasal, eye or sinus symptoms/irritation, shortness of breath, sneezing/wheezing or asthma symptoms and shock. Graduate students having contact dermatitis or latex allergy symptoms are to report to their personal physician or healthcare practitioner for assessment. The healthcare practitioner documentation is to be forwarded to the Health & Safety Office. After submitting physician documentation regarding the graduate students’ signs and symptoms of latex sensitivity of allergy, the Health & Safety Office will authorize release of non-latex non-powdered gloves for the graduate student. A written notification will be sent to the graduate student’s Program Director. The program is responsible to supply the graduate student with non-latex non-powdered gloves. The graduate student will be responsible for maintaining an adequate supply for the non-latex non-powdered gloves for clinical assignments. Graduate students will be instructed to report to the Health & Safety Office any additional symptoms or problems related to contact dermatitis or latex allergies, so that they can be re-assessed. The Health & Safety Office will assess each graduate student on a case-by-case basis and when indicated, the graduate student will be referred to a physician for medical follow-up.

Pregnancy Policy It is the responsibility of the pregnant student to voluntarily declare her pregnancy in writing to the Director of Health and Safety and her academic Program Director as soon after conception as possible. With inherent risks of the clinical program in mind, this documentation should include a statement from the student’s personal physician stating: a) the student’s ability to meet the program’s performance standards is not impaired and, b) the student is able to continue in the academic or clinical setting without undue detriment to herself and/or the fetus. This written release by the student’s health care provider will be kept in the student’s confidential health record in the Office of Health and Safety. Student may choose to continue with her program with the understanding that she is expected to satisfactorily meet the same standards of course and classroom performance as are the other students enrolled in the program as well as adhering to academic policies that apply to all students. For additional information regarding possible accommodations, refer to the Student Handbook. Each pregnant student will be handled on an individual basis and may be availed for a leave of absence (please refer to the Leave of Absence Section of this manual for more information).

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Section VII: Student Handbook Acknowledgement I acknowledge that I have received, read and understand the policies and procedures as described in the Physician Assistant Student Handbook. I understand that non-compliance with any policies described herein may result in disciplinary action up to, and including program dismissal. Signed: ____________________________________________ Date: ________________________ Printed Name: _______________________________________

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Appendix A: Technical Standards Student Attestation

1. Observation: Students must be able to demonstrate sufficient capacity to observe demonstrations and

experiments in basic and clinical sciences (including computer-assisted instruction), and must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance or close at hand.

2. Communication: Students must be able to demonstrate sufficient capacity to communicate accurately and with clarity, in oral and written forms, with appropriate respect and sensitivity towards faculty, patients, and all members of the healthcare team.

3. Motor: Students must have sufficient fine and gross motor function to elicit information from patients by palpation, auscultation, percussion and other diagnostic maneuvers. They must be able to grasp and manipulate tools and equipment using proper technique and stand, sit, walk and move as needed in a patient care setting.

4. Senses: Students must have sufficient use of the senses of vision, hearing, touch, and smell necessary to directly perform a physical examination.

5. Problem solving: Students must demonstrate sufficient ability to learn to measure, calculate, analyze, and synthesize data to reach diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical judgments.

6. Clinical skills: Students must demonstrate sufficient ability to learn and perform routine laboratory tests and diagnostic, therapeutic and surgical procedures. All students will be expected to perform physical examinations on both males and females.

7. Behavioral attributes: Students must possess the emotional health necessary for full utilization of their

intellectual abilities, the exercise of sound judgment, the prompt completion of responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients, and the development of mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with faculty, clinical staff and patients.

8. Judgment: Students must be able to learn and demonstrate the ability to recognize limitations to their knowledge, skills and abilities, and to seek appropriate assistance with their identified limitations.

9. Stability: Students must be able to learn to respond with precise, efficient, and appropriate action in emergency situations.

10. Perseverance: Students are expected to possess the humility to accept criticism, and the diligence to successfully complete the physician assistant curriculum and enter the practice of medicine as a certified physician assistant.

11. Cognition: The physician assistant program is a concentrated and fast-paced program. In addition, physician assistants must often make critical decisions when evaluating patients and must make these decisions in a timely manner. Students must be able to assimilate large amounts of information quickly and efficiently, as well as gather and analyze patient data in a timely manner. Health conditions and/or drugs (prescription, over the counter or "recreational") that alter perceptions, slow responses, or impair judgment are not compatible with success in the program. These may also affect the student's ability to obtain a license or to practice as a physician assistant.

12. Capability: Physician Assistants work in a variety of clinical settings and may be required to stand for extended

periods of time, assist in major surgery, hold retractors, place invasive devices, assist in labor and delivery, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, perform minor surgical procedures, or help move patients. Therefore, students must demonstrate sufficient capability to function safely, effectively, and efficiently in a classroom,

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laboratory, or clinical facility without any of the following: a surrogate, intermediate, companion (animal or human), translator, or assistive device that would interfere with or not be usable in a surgical or other patient care setting

I, Physician Assistant Student ______________________________ have read the above Technical Standards of the Physician Assistant program and profession. I attest that I currently meet theses Technical Standards. Further, I acknowledge that failure to demonstrate compliance with the Technical Standards at any point during my education is grounds for remediation and possible program dismissal. Signed: _________________________________________ Date: __________________________

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Appendix B: STUDENT GRADE APPEAL FORM

Date: Student ID: Phone: ( )

Name:

Email Address:

Semester: Course and Section: Instructor:

Type of Appeal (Circle one): Non-Final Grade (Exam, Exam, Assignment, Activity

Final Grade

Reasons for Appeal (Use additional pages as necessary):

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Appendix C: Honor Statement I will not give or receive any unauthorized aid on any examination or paper. In the event that I witness anyone else do so, I will report him or her immediately to the instructor and/or the appropriate Program Director or Dean.

Signature: _____________________________________ Date: _________________________ Printed Name: __________________________________ Professionalism, integrity and excellence are the cornerstones of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University and the Physician Assistant program. Consequently, PA students are expected to be kind, compassionate and patient and to consistently demonstrate honesty, service, and respect for others. Initials_____________ If you have a documented disability and wish to discuss academic accommodations, please contact the Office of Student Services as soon as possible. The Office of Student Services is located at 5421 Didesse Drive. Phone: (225) 490-1620 Fax: (225) 490-1613 Initials____________ Signed Honor Statement and notification of disabilities and professional conduct is located in the student’s file. By endorsing these common principles, I accept a moral obligation to behave in ways that contribute to a civil campus environment and resolve to support this behavior in others. This commitment to civility is my promise to Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University and its community of scholars. The University does not condone harassment directed toward any person or group within its community -- students, employees, or visitors. Every member of the University should refrain from actions that intimidate, humiliate, or demean persons or groups or that undermine their security or self-esteem. Physical, mental, or verbal acts that intentionally threaten, seriously embarrass, harm, or harass any person, persons, or group on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or handicap are serious offenses. Any person or group to act in such a manner will be subject to discipline.

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Appendix D: Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession (www.aapa.org) The physician assistant profession has revised its code of ethics several times since the profession began. Although the fundamental principles underlying the ethical care of patients have not changed, the societal framework in which those principles are applied has. Economic pressures of the health care system, social pressures of church and state, technological advances, and changing patient demographics continually transform the landscape in which PAs practice. Previous codes of the profession were brief lists of tenets for PAs to live by in their professional lives. This document departs from that format by attempting to describe ways in which those tenets apply. Each situation is unique. Individual PAs must use their best judgment in a given situation while considering the preferences of the patient and the supervising physician, clinical information, ethical concepts, and legal obligations. Four main bioethical principles broadly guided the development of these guidelines: autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. Autonomy, strictly speaking, means self-rule. Patients have the right to make autonomous decisions and choices, and physician assistants should respect these decisions and choices. Beneficence means that PAs should act in the patient’s best interest. In certain cases, respecting the patient’s autonomy and acting in their best interests may be difficult to balance. Nonmaleficence means to do no harm, to impose no unnecessary or unacceptable burden upon the patient. Justice means that patients in similar circumstances should receive similar care. Justice also applies to norms for the fair distribution of resources, risks, and costs. Physician assistants are expected to behave both legally and morally. They should know and understand the laws governing their practice. Likewise, they should understand the ethical responsibilities of being a health care professional. Legal requirements and ethical expectations will not always be in agreement. Generally speaking, the law describes minimum standards of acceptable behavior, and ethical principles delineate the highest moral standards of behavior. When faced with an ethical dilemma, PAs may find the guidance they need in this document. If not, they may wish to seek guidance elsewhere, possibly from a supervising physician, a hospital ethics committee, an ethicist, trusted colleagues, or other AAPA policies. PAs should seek legal counsel when they are concerned about the potential legal consequences of their decisions. The following sections discuss ethical conduct of PAs in their professional interactions with patients, physicians, colleagues, other health professionals, and the public. The "Statement of Values" within this document defines the fundamental values that the PA profession strives to uphold. These values provide the foundation upon which the guidelines rest. The guidelines were written with the understanding that no document can encompass all actual and potential ethical responsibilities, and PAs should not regard them as comprehensive. Statement of Values of the Physician Assistant Profession

Physician assistants hold as their primary responsibility the health, safety, welfare, and dignity of all human beings.

Physician assistants uphold the tenets of patient autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice.

Physician assistants recognize and promote the value of diversity.

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Physician assistants treat equally all persons who seek their care.

Physician assistants hold in confidence the information shared in the course of practicing medicine.

Physician assistants assess their personal capabilities and limitations, striving always to improve their medical practice.

Physician assistants actively seek to expand their knowledge and skills, keeping abreast of advances in medicine.

Physician assistants work with other members of the health care team to provide compassionate and effective care of patients.

Physician assistants use their knowledge and experience to contribute to an improved community.

Physician assistants respect their professional relationship with physicians.

Physician assistants share and expand knowledge within the profession. PA Role and Responsibilities Physician assistant practice flows out of a unique relationship that involves the PA, the physician, and the patient. The individual patient–PA relationship is based on mutual respect and an agreement to work together regarding medical care. In addition, PAs practice medicine with physician supervision; therefore, the care that a PA provides is an extension of the care of the supervising physician. The patient–PA relationship is also a patient–PA–physician relationship. The principal value of the physician assistant profession is to respect the health, safety, welfare, and dignity of all human beings. This concept is the foundation of the patient–PA relationship. Physician assistants have an ethical obligation to see that each of their patients receives appropriate care. PAs should be sensitive to the beliefs and expectations of the patient. PAs should recognize that each patient is unique and has an ethical right to self-determination Physician assistants are professionally and ethically committed to providing nondiscriminatory care to all patients. While PAs are not expected to ignore their own personal values, scientific or ethical standards, or the law, they should not allow their personal beliefs to restrict patient access to care. A PA has an ethical duty to offer each patient the full range of information on relevant options for their health care. If personal moral, religious, or ethical beliefs prevent a PA from offering the full range of treatments available or care the patient desires, the PA has an ethical duty to refer a patient to another qualified provider. That referral should not restrict a patient’s access to care. PAs are obligated to care for patients in emergency situations and to responsibly transfer patients if they cannot care for them. Physician assistants should always act in the best interests of their patients and as advocates when necessary. PAs should actively resist policies that restrict free exchange of medical information. For example, a PA should not withhold information about treatment options simply because the option is not covered by insurance. PAs should inform patients of financial incentives to limit care, use resources in a fair and efficient way, and avoid arrangements or financial incentives that conflict with the patient’s best interests. The PA and Diversity The physician assistant should respect the culture, values, beliefs, and expectations of the patient. Nondiscrimination Physician assistants should not discriminate against classes or categories of patients in the delivery of needed health care. Such classes and categories include gender, color, creed, race, religion, age, ethnic or national origin, political beliefs, nature of illness, disability, socioeconomic status, physical stature, body size, gender identity, marital status, or sexual orientation.

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Initiation and Discontinuation of Care In the absence of a preexisting patient–PA relationship, the physician assistant is under no ethical obligation to care for a person unless no other provider is available. A PA is morally bound to provide care in emergency situations and to arrange proper follow-up. PAs should keep in mind that contracts with health insurance plans might define a legal obligation to provide care to certain patients. A physician assistant and supervising physician may discontinue their professional relationship with an established patient as long as proper procedures are followed. The PA and physician should provide the patient with adequate notice, offer to transfer records, and arrange for continuity of care if the patient has an ongoing medical condition. Discontinuation of the professional relationship should be undertaken only after a serious attempt has been made to clarify and understand the expectations and concerns of all involved parties. If the patient decides to terminate the relationship, they are entitled to access appropriate information contained within their medical record. Informed Consent Physician assistants have a duty to protect and foster an individual patient’s free and informed choices. The doctrine of informed consent means that a PA provides adequate information that is comprehendible to a competent patient or patient surrogate. At a minimum, this should include the nature of the medical condition, the objectives of the proposed treatment, treatment options, possible outcomes, and the risks involved. PAs should be committed to the concept of shared Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession decision making, which involves assisting patients in making decisions that account for medical, situational, and personal factors. In caring for adolescents, the PA should understand all of the laws and regulations in his or her jurisdiction that are related to the ability of minors to consent to or refuse health care. Adolescents should be encouraged to involve their families in health care decision making. The PA should also understand consent laws pertaining to emancipated or mature minors. (See the section on Confidentiality.) When the person giving consent is a patient’s surrogate, a family member, or other legally authorized representative, the PA should take reasonable care to assure that the decisions made are consistent with the patient’s best interests and personal preferences, if known. If the PA believes the surrogate’s choices do not reflect the patient’s wishes or best interests, the PA should work to resolve the conflict. This may require the use of additional resources, such as an ethics committee. Confidentiality Physician assistants should maintain confidentiality. By maintaining confidentiality, PAs respect patient privacy and help to prevent discrimination based on medical conditions. If patients are confident that their privacy is protected, they are more likely to seek medical care and more likely to discuss their problems candidly. In cases of adolescent patients, family support is important but should be balanced with the patient’s need for confidentiality and the PA’s obligation to respect their emerging autonomy. Adolescents may not be of age to make independent decisions about their health, but providers should respect that they soon will be. To the extent they can, PAs should allow these emerging adults to participate as fully as possible in decisions about their care. It is important that PAs be familiar with and understand the laws and regulations in their jurisdictions that relate to the confidentiality rights of adolescent patients. (See the section on Informed Consent.) Any communication about a patient conducted in a manner that violates confidentiality is unethical. Because written, electronic, and verbal information may be intercepted or overheard, the PA should always be aware of anyone who might be monitoring communication about a patient. PAs should choose methods of storage and

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transmission of patient information that minimize the likelihood of data becoming available to unauthorized persons or organizations. Computerized record keeping and electronic data transmission present unique challenges that can make the maintenance of patient confidentiality difficult. PAs should advocate for policies and procedures that secure the confidentiality of patient information. The Patient and the Medical Record Physician assistants have an obligation to keep information in the patient’s medical record confidential. Information should be released only with the written permission of the patient or the patient’s legally authorized representative. Specific exceptions to this general rule may exist (e.g., workers compensation, communicable disease, HIV, knife/gunshot wounds, abuse, and substance abuse). It is important that a PA be familiar with and understand the laws and Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession regulations in his or her jurisdiction that relate to the release of information. For example, stringent legal restrictions on release of genetic test results and mental health records often exist. Both ethically and legally, a patient has certain rights to know the information contained in his or her medical record. While the chart is legally the property of the practice or the institution, the information in the chart is the property of the patient. Most states have laws that provide patients access to their medical records. The PA should know the laws and facilitate patient access to the information. Disclosure A physician assistant should disclose to his or her supervising physician information about errors made in the course of caring for a patient. The supervising physician and PA should disclose the error to the patient if such information is significant to the patient’s interests and well-being. Errors do not always constitute improper, negligent, or unethical behavior, but failure to disclose them may. Care of Family Members and Co-workers Treating oneself, co-workers, close friends, family members, or students whom the physician assistant supervises or teaches may be unethical or create conflicts of interest. For example, it might be ethically acceptable to treat one’s own child for a case of otitis media but it probably is not acceptable to treat one’s spouse for depression. PAs should be aware that their judgment might be less than objective in cases involving friends, family members, students, and colleagues and that providing “curbside” care might sway the individual from establishing an ongoing relationship with a provider. If it becomes necessary to treat a family member or close associate, a formal patient-provider relationship should be established, and the PA should consider transferring the patient’s care to another provider as soon as it is practical. If a close associate requests care, the PA may wish to assist by helping them find an appropriate provider. There may be exceptions to this guideline, for example, when a PA runs an employee health center or works in occupational medicine. Even in those situations, the PA should be sure they do not provide informal treatment, but provide appropriate medical care in a formally established patient-provider relationship. Genetic Testing Evaluating the risk of disease and performing diagnostic genetic tests raise significant ethical concerns. Physician assistants should be informed about the benefits and risks of genetic tests. Testing should be undertaken only after proper informed consent is obtained. If PAs order or conduct the tests, they should assure that appropriate pre- and post-test counseling is provided. PAs should be sure that patients undersimpact on patients themselves, possible implications for other family members, and potential use of the information by insurance companies or others who might have access to the information. Because of the potential

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for discrimination by insurers, employers, or others, PAs should be particularly aware of the need for confidentiality concerning genetic test results. Reproductive Decision Making Patients have a right to access the full range of reproductive health care services, including fertility treatments, contraception, sterilization, and abortion. Physician assistants have an ethical obligation to provide balanced and unbiased clinical information about reproductive health care. When the PA's personal values conflict with providing full disclosure or providing certain services such as sterilization or abortion, the PA need not become involved in that aspect of the patient's care. By referring the patient to a qualified provider who is willing to discuss and facilitate all treatment options, the PA fulfills their ethical obligation to ensure the patient’s access to all legal options. End of Life Among the ethical principles that are fundamental to providing compassionate care at the end of life, the most essential is recognizing that dying is a personal experience and part of the life cycle. Physician Assistants should provide patients with the opportunity to plan for end of life care. Advance directives, living wills, durable power of attorney, and organ donation should be discussed during routine patient visits. PAs should assure terminally-ill patients that their dignity is a priority and that relief of physical and mental suffering is paramount. PAs should exhibit non-judgmental attitudes and should assure their terminally-ill patients that they will not be abandoned. To the extent possible, patient or surrogate preferences should be honored, using the most appropriate measures consistent with their choices, including alternative and non-traditional treatments. PAs should explain palliative and hospice care and facilitate patient access to those services. End of life care should include assessment and management of psychological, social, and spiritual or religious needs. While respecting patients’ wishes for particular treatments when possible, PAs also must weigh their ethical responsibility, in consultation with supervising physicians, to withhold futile treatments and to help patients understand such medical decisions. PAs should involve the physician in all near-death planning. The PA should only withdraw life support with the supervising physician's agreement and in accordance with the policies of the health care institution. The PA and Individual Professionalism Conflict of Interest Physician assistants should place service to patients before personal material gain and should avoid undue influence on their clinical judgment. Trust can be undermined by even the appearance of improper influence. Examples of excessive or undue influence on clinical judgment can take several forms. These may include financial incentives, pharmaceutical or other industry gifts, and business arrangements involving referrals. PAs should disclose any actual or potential conflict of interest to their patients. Acceptance of gifts, trips, hospitality, or other items is discouraged. Before accepting a gift or financial arrangement, PAs might consider the guidelines of the Royal College of Physicians, “Would I be willing to have this arrangement generally known?” or of the American College of Physicians, “What would the public or my patients think of this arrangement?” Professional Identity Physician assistants should not misrepresent directly or indirectly, their skills, training, professional credentials, or identity. Physician assistants should uphold the dignity of the PA profession and accept its ethical values.

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Competency Physician assistants should commit themselves to providing competent medical care and extend to each patient the full measure of their professional ability as dedicated, empathetic health care providers. PAs should also strive to maintain and increase the quality of their health care knowledge, cultural sensitivity, and cultural competence through individual study and continuing education. Sexual Relationships It is unethical for physician assistants to become sexually involved with patients. It also may be unethical for PAs to become sexually involved with former patients or key third parties. Key third parties are individuals who have influence over the patient. These might include spouses or partners, parents, guardians, or surrogates. Such relationships generally are unethical because of the PA’s position of authority and the inherent imbalance of knowledge, expertise, and status. Issues such as dependence, trust, transference, and inequalities of power may lead to increased vulnerability on the part of the current or former patients or key third parties. Gender Discrimination and Sexual Harassment It is unethical for physician assistants to engage in or condone any form of gender discrimination. Gender discrimination is defined as any behavior, action, or policy that adversely affects an individual or group of individuals due to disparate treatment, disparate impact, or the creation of a hostile or intimidating work or learning environment. It is unethical for PAs to engage in or condone any form of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: Such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual's work or academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive work or academic environment, or Accepting or rejecting such conduct affects or may be perceived to affect professional decisions concerning an individual, or Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's training or professional position. The PA and Other Professionals Team Practice Physician assistants should be committed to working collegially with other members of the health care team to assure integrated, well-managed, and effective care of patients. PAs should strive to maintain a spirit of cooperation with other health care professionals, their organizations, and the general public. Illegal and Unethical Conduct Physician assistants should not participate in or conceal any activity that will bring discredit or dishonor to the PA profession. They should report illegal or unethical conduct by health care professionals to the appropriate authorities. Impairment Physician assistants have an ethical responsibility to protect patients and the public by identifying and assisting impaired colleagues. “Impaired” means being unable to practice medicine with reasonable skill and safety because of physical or mental illness, loss of motor skills, or excessive use or abuse of drugs and alcohol. PAs should be able to recognize impairment in physician supervisors, PAs, and other health care providers and should seek assistance from appropriate resources to encourage these individuals to obtain treatment. PA–Physician Relationship Supervision should include ongoing communication between the physician and the physician assistant regarding patient care. The PA should consult the supervising physician whenever it will

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safeguard or advance the welfare of the patient. This includes seeking assistance in situations of conflict with a patient or another health care professional. Complementary and Alternative Medicine When a patient asks about an alternative therapy, the PA has an ethical obligation to gain a basic understanding of the alternative therapy being considered or being used and how the treatment will affect the patient. If the treatment would harm the patient, the PA should work diligently to dissuade the patient from using it, advise other treatment, and perhaps consider transferring the patient to another provider. The PA and the Health Care System Workplace Actions Physician assistants may face difficult personal decisions to withhold medical services when workplace actions (e.g., strikes, sick-outs, slowdowns, etc.) occur. The potential harm to patients should be carefully weighed against the potential improvements to working conditions and, ultimately, patient care that could result. In general, PAs should individually and collectively work to find alternatives to such actions in addressing workplace concerns. PAs as Educators All physician assistants have a responsibility to share knowledge and information with patients, other health professionals, students, and the public. The ethical duty to teach includes effective communication with patients so that they will have the information necessary to participate in their health care and wellness. PAs and Research The most important ethical principle in research is honesty. This includes assuring subjects’ informed consent, following treatment protocols, and accurately reporting findings. Fraud and dishonesty in research should be reported so that the appropriate authorities can take action. Physician assistants involved in research must be aware of potential conflicts of interest. The patient's welfare takes precedence over the desired research outcome. Any conflict of interest should be disclosed. In scientific writing, PAs should report information honestly and accurately. Sources of funding for the research must be included in the published reports. Plagiarism is unethical. Incorporating the words of others, either verbatim, or by paraphrasing without appropriate attribution is unethical and may have legal consequences. When submitting a document for publication, any previous publication of any portion of the document must be fully disclosed. PAs as Expert Witnesses The physician assistant expert witness should testify to what he or she believes to be the truth. The PA’s review of medical facts should be thorough, fair, and impartial. The PA expert witness should be fairly compensated for time spent preparing, appearing, and testifying. The PA should not accept a contingency fee based on the outcome of a case in which testimony is given or derive personal, financial, or professional favor in addition to compensation. The PA and Society Lawfulness Physician assistants have the dual duty to respect the law and to work for positive change to laws that will enhance the health and well-being of the community.

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Executions Physician assistants, as health care professionals, should not participate in executions because to do so would violate the ethical principle of beneficence. Access to Care / Resource Allocation Physician assistants have a responsibility to use health care resources in an appropriate and efficient manner so that all patients have access to needed health care. Resource allocation should be based on societal needs and policies, not the circumstances of an individual patient– PA encounter. PAs participating in policy decisions about resource allocation should consider medical need, cost-effectiveness, efficacy, and equitable distribution of benefits and burdens in society. Community Well Being Physician assistants should work for the health, well-being, and the best interest of both the patient and the community. Sometimes there is a dynamic moral tension between the well-being of the community in general and the individual patient. Conflict between an individual patient’s best interest and the common good is not always easily resolved. In general, PAs should be committed to upholding and enhancing community values, be aware of the needs of the community, and use the knowledge and experience acquired as professionals to contribute to an improved community. Conclusion The American Academy of Physician Assistants recognizes its responsibility to aid the PA profession as it strives to provide high quality, accessible health care. Physician assistants wrote these guidelines for themselves and other physician assistants. The ultimate goal is to honor patients and earn their trust while providing the best and most appropriate care possible. At the same time, PAs must understand their personal values and beliefs and recognize the ways in which those values and beliefs can impact the care they provide.

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Appendix E: Clinical and Practical Lab Skills Release I, __________________________ (printed name) understand Instruction may periodically require physical contact between faculty, preceptors and students for the purpose of physically guiding appropriate techniques, ie Physical Assessment, Clinical Medical Skills and other didactic and clinical situations that may involve demonstrations. My signature indicates my understanding of this as an appropriate and necessary part of instruction, and that I accept this practice. Signature: ________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Printed name: _____________________________________

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Appendix F: Photograph/Video Release Form With my signature below, I hereby permit Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University to use my photograph or video image in official University publications including but not limited to the University Website, Catalog or other publication or office news release(s). I furthermore release Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, its Board, Board members individually and its employee and agents, from any and all claim, damage, injury including attorneys’ fees, arising out of the use of said photograph or image or likeness thereof. Signature: ______________________________________ Date: __________________________ Printed name: ___________________________________

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Appendix G: Physician Assistant Program ExamSoft Student Exam-Taking Procedures

The purpose of these procedures is to provide clear and consistent guidelines for all students using ExamSoft software during quizzes and examinations. All efforts have been made to create a distraction-reduced environment.

1. All students will adhere to the honor code.

2. All exams are timed. Students are allotted 1 minute per question as consistent with the PANCE (excluding

students with accommodations).

3. All student items including purses, backpacks, bags etc. will remain in the back of the classroom while

test-taking is in progress. Only keys, a pencil, and the student’s personal electronic device will be allowed

in the room. Keys are to be placed on the back table prior to the exam.

4. Absolutely no food and drink (including water) or gum chewing is allowed.

5. Students are to arrive 10 minutes prior to the exam in order to allow adequate time to download the

exam and for troubleshooting any technical issues.

6. Students are to bring their personal electronic device with a full charge to the battery.

7. Any absence from an exam must be approved prior to exam day. Students arriving late to the exam will

not be permitted to take the exam at that time. In the event of an unforeseen emergency, the exam will

be rescheduled with after approval from the Course Director.

8. Students will be allowed the use of a pencil for note-taking, along with on sheet of note paper to be

distributed by the test proctor and collected from the student prior to leaving the exam room.

9. There will be assigned seating for the exam. No exceptions.

10. Students may wear ear plugs or noise-cancelling headphones approved by the exam room proctor.

11. Students may not wear hats of any kind.

12. Barring emergencies, students are not permitted to leave the exam room for any reason (including using

the restroom) until the exam is over for all students.

13. Students may not leave their seat during the exam for any reason. In the event of technical difficulty with

the software, the student will raise his/her hand and the proctor will assist them. Students may not ask

content questions during the exam.

14. Students will be permitted to view their exam results upon exam completion. Only incorrect answers will

be displayed.

15. Once the exam is complete and the student has “uploaded”, a green confirmation screen will be

displayed. The student will raise their hand at this time. The proctor must confirm the green confirmation

screen and collect the student’s “scratch” paper prior to exiting the classroom.

16. After the exam has been uploaded and verified by the proctor, the student may exit the classroom

quietly. Re-entry will not be permitted once the student has left.

17. Failure to comply with the aforementioned procedures may result in a “zero” on the exam and possible

further disciplinary action.

18. All students are required to have screen protectors. Students who do not utilize this protective feature

will not be able to take the exam.

19. Students are required to independently update the Examplify software. Any issues are to be directed the

Examsoft support team via the website.

All other potential issues that arise during examination times will be left to the discretion of the exam proctor.