CLINICAL EDUCATION SEMESTERS

The purpose of clinical education is to assist the student in transferring knowledge from the didactic portion of the program into the clinical setting and applying that knowledge. To better prepare students for the work force, students will be given responsibilities in the areas of self-direction and self-motivation.

Opportunities for attaining competence in pediatric, geriatric, trauma, surgical and bedside procedures are provided. Simulation is utilized for infrequent or limited volume examinations and will comprise a minor element of clinical education. Opportunities are provided for observation in computed tomography, cardiovascular, interventional, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medicine, ultrasonography, positron emission tomography, mammography and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. These modalities are scheduled by college faculty. Students may not observe/participate in these areas unless assigned.

A student is permitted to log any exam he/she observes and/or participates in during clinical education, even if the exam has not been covered in class. The student cannot prove competency on any exam prior to testing in the classroom. The student must have been present for lab and have been checked off initially in the laboratory setting on campus for the procedure. Once the student has tested, he/she will then be allowed to perform competency.

Students are not compensated for clinical education experiences at any facility at any time.

First semester

Clinical education is a continual progression. The first six weeks of clinical (Tuesdays and Thursdays) are spent preparing the student for a valuable clinical experience. Hours and location for these first few weeks will vary. The preparation is accomplished through various strategies including handbook review, instructional videos, hands-on clinical radiographic room manipulation, patient transportation practice, and instruction/demonstration of patient care skills to include, but not limited to vital signs, handwashing, MRI safety, and HIPAA. Students will travel to many clinical affiliates for onsite clinical orientations. These orientations are mandatory and cannot be made up. Students are expected to participate.

Students must complete a room competency and a mobile competency prior to the start date for actual clinical rotations. Competencies will be completed by program faculty only. Clinical begins once the orientation process is completed, usually the first week of October.

Once in clinical, the students must always carry a small pocket notepad to retain information from the day regarding techniques, supplies and routines. These techniques need to be compiled from each clinical area and will be uploaded as an assignment into D2L at the end of the semester (see clinical education syllabus for rubric).

Clinical may include any of the following sites:  CHI St. Vincent, CHI St. Vincent Outpatient Imaging Center, CHI St. Vincent Orthopedic Clinic, National Park Medical Center, Baptist Medical Center- Hot Spring County, Baptist Medical Center- Arkadelphia, Saline Memorial Hospital, Orthopedic Center of Hot Springs, Ouachita Procedures Center and First Care Walk-In Clinic. Additional sites may be added at a later date.

Students will only be allowed to proceed with clinical competencies after the procedure has been covered in the didactic course RAD 1404 Radiographic Procedures I. The procedures will be covered in class, laboratory and then tested on in order to count as a competency. Students are required to attend the laboratory that will be assigned to them on campus. While in the assigned laboratory, the students will be given the initial check off regarding initial instruction of the material. Students who perform competency procedures before the material has been covered in class and laboratory will be subject to disciplinary action.

The procedure is as follows for a competency:

The student must inform any clinical preceptor that he/she wants to perform a procedure as a competency prior to the procedure being done. If the student should negate to inform the clinical preceptor, the student will not be allowed to count the procedure as his/her own. Students are encouraged to participate in any exam with the clinical preceptor, even when the procedure has not been covered in the classroom setting. Being proactive in your own education is paramount. The student will be unable to perform a competency but will gain a wealth of knowledge by taking an active part. After completion of required pre-competency/performance, the student may elect to prove competent on that procedure once it has been covered in the classroom and laboratory. During the competency, the student must perform the examination without assistance from any clinical preceptor. The competency will always have two parts. The initial portion of the competency is performed on the patient in the clinical facility by any registered clinical preceptor. Following the competency, the images must be evaluate for quality and anatomy review. Only clinical faculty or listed clinical preceptors can complete the image evaluation/anatomy portion of the competency.

Second semester

The second semester will be a continuation of RAD 1404 Radiographic Procedures I. Students will continue to increase their interaction with patients, families and clinical/hospital staff. All students are encouraged to practice in all radiographic rooms as they rotate through each facility.

Third semester

The third semester will be a continuation of RAD 1704 Radiographic Procedures II.

The first summer session will include time intensive classroom and laboratory hours. The second summer will be spent in the clinical setting. Students may begin completing competencies for surgery/C-arm.

Fourth Semester

The students will be enrolled into RAD 2503 Advanced Radiographic Procedures. This semester the student will be permitted to comp on arthrograms, myelograms, ERCP, and bronchoscopies once they are covered and tested in class. The students will also participate in a simulation day at the college. These simulation days will be scheduled on Fridays and will be assigned at the beginning of the 4th semester. The student will perform any exam that is listed as a “simulation” in the handbook that they have not already proved competent on during clinical education thus far. (Skull simulations will be performed during the fifth semester). These simulated exams will be performed on the phantom in the laboratory. The techniques on the console will be set by the student and anatomy critique will be required. If the student is not prepared for the simulated procedures or anatomy critique, the student will automatically fail and will have to repeat the procedure the next semester.

Students are expected to be dressed in clinical attire and bring all necessary items, including a hospital grade mask and face shield/goggles if required by COVID campus protocol. If a student fails to meet these requirements, he/she will be sent home and forfeit his/her simulation day for the semester. Student will be rescheduled during the fifth semester. Students are required to clock in and out in Trajecsys for simulation days.

The student may also be assigned to a Cath lab rotation and/or interventional rotation. This rotation is assigned so the student will grow in the knowledge of sterile technique and fluoroscopy. The student is required to participate and assist the radiologist or cardiologist with these procedures.

The student will also be assigned to a mammography/bone densitometry (DEXA) rotation at CHI St. Vincent Women’s Center. Students will gain knowledge about this special modality (pre and post examination instructions and questionnaire information).

A Computerized Tomography (CT) rotation is included this semester. Students will learn how to respond to inquiries about this modality (pre and post examination instructions and questionnaire information). The student is also strongly recommended to use their venipuncture skills from semester II, in RAD 1002 Radiographic Phlebotomy.

Fifth semester

The progression of clinical will continue into the fifth and final semester. The students should, at this point, feel confident with all exams and mastered the majority of exams. The student will be scheduled an additional simulation day to perform any skull images not already proved competent in the clinical setting. The student’s clinical schedule will contain areas needed for the completion of the necessary competencies. Techniques need to be refined and students should feel somewhat confident in all areas. 

Final competencies are required from all categories as the student completes all exams from those categories. The final competencies must be performed without repeats or assistance from clinical preceptors. These final competencies must be of excellent quality and should showcase what the student is capable of producing. Final competencies must be checked by appointed clinical preceptors or college faculty. Any examination of poor quality will be subject to re-competency. Any clinical preceptor can complete the final competency in Trajecsys but only designated clinical preceptors or college faculty must complete the image evaluation portion of the competency in Trajecsys. 

All competencies and final competencies must be completed in order to graduate the program. Students will rotate through Ultrasound (US), Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Nuclear Medicine (NM) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). After these rotations, the student will be able to respond to inquiries about each modality (pre and post examination instructions, questionnaire information, type of radiation and appearance of images from each modality). 

CLINICAL ROTATIONS

Fall and Spring semesters will consist of one- or two-week rotations and Summer semester will have five one-week rotations*. Specialty rotations may vary with modality. Students are assigned to clinical sites randomly with the intention that all students will visit all clinical sites at least once during the duration of the program, thus creating an equitable clinical experience for all students. Under no circumstance will students be allowed to change their clinical sites. Clinical rotations are determined by the clinical faculty.

* The length of each clinical rotation is subject to change from semester to semester.

GENERAL CLINICAL OBJECTIVES

All objectives will be completed according to each clinical facility's practices. For each required radiographic examination, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Maintain radiographic room cleanliness:
  • Changes linens after each patient. Cleans the room and console with disinfectant wipes.
  • Prepares the room and equipment and obtain necessary supplies for the radiographic examination.
  1. For contrast studies:
  • Prepares contrast for patient exams under clinical preceptor
  • Administers contrast media appropriately, under clinical preceptor supervision, with concern for patient comfort.
  • Recognizes a contrast media reaction or other patient emergency.
  • Assists physician needs during fluoroscopic examinations.
  1. Demonstrate the proper communication skills with patients:
  • Address the patient in the proper manner by use of surname, title or complete name. Check the patient's identification (2 forms) with the requisition.
  • Communicates effectively with the patient.
  • Gives clear explanation for the examination.
  • Obtains pertinent clinical history, including previous exams.
  1. Maintain confidentiality of patient's records and request forms.
  2. Discuss medical-legal and personal consequences when confidentiality is breached.
  3. Assist the patient to the radiographic imaging area.
  • Demonstrate the proper handling of wheelchairs and/or stretchers.
  • Demonstrate the proper body mechanics for lifting.
  1. Remove all unnecessary or interfering clothing and/or accessories (g. dentures, jewelry, hairpins, etc.)
  • Maintain the modesty of the patient by keeping the patient covered at all times with a sheet or blanket.
  1. Manipulate the patient for proper projections required for the examination evaluated.
  • Communicate proper instructions to the patient clearly and audibly.
  • Use immobilization techniques properly.
  • Provide support to alleviate patient discomfort and/or provide needed modifications for projections desired.
  • Align the central ray properly to the IR and body part.
  • Use the proper SID according to the IR and projection taken.
  • Operate the tube and/or table locks properly without hesitation.
  • Collimate properly to the appropriate exposure area.
  • Use markers accurately.
  1. Operate control panel accurately. Make proper exposure, using judgment to alter factors for pathological conditions.
  2. Wear lead aprons, thyroid shields and/or gloves when needed.
  3. Wear appropriate face shield/goggles and hospital grade mask.
  4. Apply appropriate principles of radiation protection.
  5. Perform appropriate IR handling techniques.
  6. Evaluate the resulting image for technique and positioning.
  7. Maintain and use a notebook of procedures and techniques.

Lunch break at all clinical sites is 30 minutes unless specified by specialty clinics. Do not leave NPMC/CHI St. Vincent for lunch for any reason. You have 30 minutes for lunch at these sites.

FLUOROSCOPY ROTATION OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of the fluoroscopy rotation, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Correctly mix the appropriate product.
  2. Gather and organize the appropriate supplies for easy access during an exam.
  3. Attach the footboard and check it for safety when it is needed for the procedure.
  4. Place the table in the correct position.
  5. Prepare pillow and additional clean linens as appropriate for the procedure.
  6. Make sure that all radiation safety devices are in place and aprons and gloves are available for all personnel.
  7. Correctly set the control panel for fluoroscopy.
  8. Correctly identify the patient according to accepted practice.
  9. Give the patient correct undressing instructions.
  10. Explain the procedure fully to the patient in such a way that the patient understands.
  11. Take a pertinent and complete history.
  12. Correctly and carefully insert enema tip for enema exams.
  13. Properly introduce the patient to the doctor.
  14. Adequately protect the patient's modesty.
  15. Correctly assist with barium administration and patient positioning during fluoroscopy.
  16. Practice radiation safety for patient, self, and
  17. Provide appropriate supportive patient care during the procedure.
  18. Maintain clean equipment at all times in the fluoroscopy suite.

PORTABLE/MOBILE ROTATION OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of a portable/mobile rotation, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Locate the mobile equipment and operate it safely and appropriately.
  2. Manipulate the locks carefully.
  3. Set up the equipment on the correct side of patient.
  4. Maintain cleanliness of the mobile equipment before and after use.
  5. Communicate effectively with hospital staff before beginning all mobile procedures.
  6. Follow appropriate infection control procedures.
  7. Clearly explain the procedure to the patient.
  8. Show concern for patient care and comfort.
  9. Make adjustments in tube/part/IR alignment to compensate for patient position.
  10. Select an appropriate technique to compensate for atypical situations, i.e., grid, patient pathology, casts, patient

COMPUTERIZED TOMOGRAPHY ROTATION OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of a computerized tomography (CT) rotation, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Prepare patient for routine exams.
  2. Aid in transport of patient and assist the clinical preceptors when necessary.
  3. Interact with patient and provide patient care as needed.
  4. Maintain patient’s modesty, comfort, and confidentiality (HIPAA)
  5. Review lab work needed for procedure or assist with collection of specimen.
  6. Demonstrate proper loading and unloading of the power injector.
  7. Perform venipuncture when technologist deems appropriate.
  8. Demonstrate knowledge of an allergic reaction and location of emergency cart.
  9. Identify basic cross sectional anatomy.

INTERVENTIONAL ROTATION OBJECTIVES

 Upon completion of an interventional rotation, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Observe and/or participate in sterile technique set up and clean up.
  2. Ask questions pertinent to area.
  3. Participate and scrub in procedure with radiologist/cardiologist when requested.
  4. Aid in transport of patient to and from the area.
  5. Interact and communicate with patient while providing patient care.

OPERATING ROOM ROTATION OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of an OR rotation, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Participate and communicate during procedures with clinical preceptor and surgical team.
  2. Distinguish which procedures will require use of c-arm referring to daily surgery schedule.
  3. Don/doff appropriate clinical site surgical attire including lead aprons and thyroid shields.
  4. Demonstrate aseptic technique with all necessary equipment while moving into room, basic knowledge to move c-arm into field of view, and rotate arm of c-arm during procedure.
  5. Determine correct location for placing the c-arm and monitor, connect equipment, and enter patient information into system prior to surgical procedure.
  6. Recognize possible sterile field contamination and relay information to clinical preceptor.
  7. Recognize the potential radiation exposure during surgical procedure.
  8. Insert accurate patient information into c-arm equipment prior to exam and efficiently send appropriate images to the PACS system once procedure is complete.
  9. Demonstrate proper technique of disinfecting, disassembling, and moving equipment out of OR suite.

NUCLEAR MEDICINE / PET / ROTATION OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of a nuclear medicine/PET rotation, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Participate in procedures with clinical preceptor as allowed.
  2. Distinguish the similarities and differences compared to typical radiographic procedures.
  3. Ask questions pertinent to area.
  4. Differentiate special radiation safety precautions regarding the use of radionuclides other imaging techniques.
  5. Identify possibility of spilled radioactive material and proper handling of clean up.
  6. Aid in transport of patient.

ULTRASOUND ROTATION OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of an ultrasound rotation, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Participate in procedures with clinical preceptor as allowed.
  2. Ask questions pertinent to area.
  3. Interact with patient and provide patient care as needed.
  4. Identify basic anatomy on images.
  5. Recognize specific terms to characterize sonographic images.

MAMMOGRAPHY / BONE DENSITOMETRY ROTATION OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of a mammography/bone densitometry rotation, the student will demonstrate an acceptable level of competence when he/she can:

  1. Participate in procedures with clinical preceptor as allowed.
  2. Observe and/or participate in sterile technique set up.
  3. Ask questions pertinent to area.
  4. Participate in patient preparation.
  5. Aid in transport of patient.
  6. Interact with patient and provide patient care as needed.

MAMMOGRAPHY POLICY

The radiography program sponsored by National Park College has revised its policy effective August, 2017, regarding the placement of students in mammography clinical rotations to observe breast imaging.

Under the revised policy, all students, male and female, will be offered the opportunity to participate in mammography clinical rotations. The program will make every effort to place a male student in a mammography clinical rotation if requested; however, the program is not in a position to override clinical setting policies that restrict clinical experiences in mammography to female students. Male students are advised that placement in a mammography rotation is not guaranteed and is subject to the availability of a clinical setting that allows males to participate in mammographic imaging procedures. The program will not deny female students the opportunity to participate in mammography rotations if clinical settings are not available to provide the same opportunity to male students.

The change in the program’s policy regarding student clinical rotations in mammography is based on the sound rationale presented in a position statement on student mammography clinical rotations adopted by the Board of Directors of the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) at its April 2016 meeting. The JRCERT position statement is included as Addendum A to the program’s policy and is also available on the JRCERT Web site, www.jrcert.org, Programs & Faculty, Program Resources.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI) SAFETY POLICY

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic tool that utilizes a powerful magnet and radiowaves to generate images of the body. The magnet used in MRI imaging is always turned on and certain implanted devices are considered incompatible with this technology. Students, while at the clinical sites, must comply with that institution’s policies and procedures for safe operation. Carrying ferromagnetic articles or introducing them to the MRI scanning area is strictly prohibited. These objects can become projectiles within the scanning room causing serious injury or death and/or equipment failure.

Items that need to be removed are:

  • Purse, wallet, money clip, credit cards or other cards with magnetic strips
  • Electronic devices
  • Hearing Aids
  • Metallic jewelry, watches
  • Pens, paperclips, keys, nail clippers, coins, pocket knives
  • Hair barrettes, hairpins
  • Any article of clothing that has a metallic zipper, buttons, snaps, hooks or under-wires
  • Shoes, belt buckles, safety pins

All radiography students should be aware of the potential hazards of exposure to the MRI scanner and the need for careful metal screening. For safety reasons, all students will receive instruction on MRI safety guidelines and must be screened during orientation prior to starting their clinical experience. Students will also be screened at the beginning of the fourth semester. Additional information can be found at the MRI Safety Home website. To assure that students are appropriately screened for magnetic wave or radiofrequency hazards, students will be screened for certain implants, devices, or objects known to interfere with the MR unit.

  1. All students must complete, sign and date the MRI screening form. This form will be reviewed by the Clinical Coordinator.
  2. Any screening form(s) that have indicated “yes” in any one of the statements will be required to undergo additional screening.
  3. Additional screening may consist of further questions, documentations of metal and/or orbit x-rays for students with a history of intra-orbital metallic foreign bodies.
  4. If a student must complete a screening orbital exam, it will be at their own expense and they must provide written documentation of a negative exam to the Clinical Coordinator prior to starting clinical rotations.
  5. If a student is contraindicated to perform a rotation in the MRI area, the Program Director or Clinical Coordinator will place the student in an alternate rotation to ensure the safety of the student.

 STUDENT CLINICAL RECORDS

Student records of clinical education experiences are recorded in the Trajecsys system. Student clinical records must contain the following items:

  • Daily examination entries
  • Time record
  • Performance Evaluations
  • Competency Evaluations

Due to HIPAA Regulations, no identifying patient information, other than the first and last letter of the patients name and the time of exam, is to be collected by student. Late or incomplete records will result in a reduction of the student’s grade. Any falsification of records in Trajecsys will result in termination from the program. The end of semester due date is the day after the last clinical day or as stated by the clinical faculty.

CLINICAL GRADING SCALE

 The grading scale is as follows: 

100 – 92 = A
91 – 83 = B
82 – 75 = C
Below 75 = D

CLINICAL PATIENT DAILY EXAMINATION ENTRIES

Daily examination entries are necessary to provide documentation of clinical participation in all areas. Each day must be entered in Trajecsys to keep record of procedures performed. Each performed exam and competency that is entered must be documented by supervising clinical preceptor. If an exam is repeated, the student is required have direct supervision by clinical preceptor and must document the repeat by checking the repeat box in Trajecsys.

When assigned to special modality areas, all exams must be logged in Trajecsys as verification that the student was present and participated in the daily activities.

PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS

Performance evaluations are completed to evaluate the students in the areas of cooperation, motivation, professional conduct, etc. Students are evaluated each rotation by the supervising clinical preceptor in the student’s assigned area. Students are also evaluated by the faculty of the program. Performance evaluations are completed in Trajecsys by a registered technologist. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure these evaluations are completed. There are specific evaluations needed for specialized modalities such as CT, interventional procedures/cath lab, MRI, mammography/bone densitometry, and OR. Performance evaluations not completed after 2 weeks will result in a grade of zero for that evaluation.

COMPETENCY EVALUATION PROCEDURE

Many competency procedures require pre-competency numbers in order to obtain mastery of an exam. These pre-competency examinations are participation/performance based. No percentage is given to a participation/performance on pre-competency exams. When all required pre-competencies are complete, the student may attempt competency on that exam. Prior to beginning the examination, the student must inform the clinical preceptor that he/she wants to be evaluated. The student must perform all of the examination in order to prove competency. One repeat is allowed on the competency. If the student does not inform the supervising clinical preceptor, the student may not be evaluated on that examination.

Competency Grading Criteria:

  • Requisition evaluation
  • Patient assessment and communication
  • Room preparation
  • Patient management
  • Equipment operation
  • Technique selection
  • Positioning skills
  • Radiation safety
  • Image processing
  • Image quality (no repeated images)

Each item on the competency is worth 10 points; therefore, two items can be failed and still pass the competency. If the student fails the competency, the clinical preceptor will check the FAILED on first attempt in Trajecsys. If the student fails the competency on the second attempt, the clinical preceptor will check FAILED on second attempt in Trajecsys. The student must then inform the clinical coordinator of the second failed attempt. The student will receive remediation and retesting. The student will be required to obtain all pre-competencies again before attempting to prove competency.

There are two parts of completing a competency: performing the examination successfully and completing an image evaluation of the images that were taken. Any clinical preceptor may complete the competency portion in Trajecsys. Only designated clinical preceptors or college faculty may compete the image evaluation, including anatomy review.

SIMULATION EXAMINATIONS

Examinations listed as a simulation cannot be evaluated as a simulation until RAD 2603 Clinical Education V. Procedures listed as a simulation can be performed on an actual patient if the exam is available in the clinical setting after content has been covered in the laboratory and classroom. An evaluation of a simulation will count toward the minimum number of examinations required each semester and student is required to document them in Trajecsys. Students will perform all simulations listed on the master sheet (other than head images) in clinical education IV. The head images will be performed during simulation day in clinical education V. The simulations will be scheduled with college faculty in advance. The procedure and anatomy must be completed on the same day in order to be given credit for the exam. The students are required to understand content prior to simulation day. Prior to the student’s simulation day, the student must complete simulation sheets found in D2L and bring them to simulation day. If these sheets are not provided and filled in completely, the student will forfeit his/her simulation day for the semester. Minimal assistance will be provided to the student as this is a student led simulation day. If the student is unable to fully complete the simulations or anatomy portion of the simulation, or fails to bring the necessary sheets, the simulation will be repeated the following semester.

FINAL CATEGORY COMPETENCY

Students are given final competencies on the categories of examinations as grouped on the master list of examinations. Upon completion of a category of examinations, the student may perform final competency for each category. Final category competencies will not begin until RAD 2603 Clinical Education V. All clinical preceptors may complete the final competency exam with students, but only the designated clinical preceptors (listed in the handbook) and college faculty are the only persons authorized to verify the image evaluation criteria. At any time, college faculty or the designated clinical preceptors may deem the images unacceptable and require the student to complete final competency again. All final category competencies must be dated after the completion of the entire category. All images must be dated, contain the student's markers, and be one of the examinations within the category. All final category competency evaluations must demonstrate excellent quality work and meet the gold standard for that examination. No repeat images are allowed on final competencies. If a final category competency is completed prior to completion of all exams in a category, it will be rejected.

CLINICAL COMPETENCY MASTER LIST

  1. Category I: Chest and Thorax
    • Chest - PA & Lat
    • Chest AP (Wheelchair)
    • Chest AP (Stretcher)
    • Ribs
    • Chest Lateral Decubitus (SIM)
    • Sternum (SIM)
    • Upper airway soft tissue neck (SIM)
    • SC Joints (SIM)
  2. Category II: Upper Extremity
    • Thumb or Finger
    • Hand
    • Wrist 
    • Forearm
    • Elbow
    • Humerous
    • Shoulder
    • Trauma: Shoulder (Scapula Y or Axial)*
    • Clavicle
    • Scapula (SIM)
    • AC Joints (SIM)
    • Trauma: Upper Extremity (non-shoulder)*
  3. Category III: Lower Extremity
    • Toes (SIM)
    • Foot
    • Ankle
    • Knee
    • Tibia-Fibula
    • Femur
    • Trauma: Lower Extremity*
    • Patella (SIM)
    • Calcaneus (SIM)
  4. Category IV: Cranium
    • Skull (PA Caldwell, Townes, Lateral)
    • Paranasal Sinuses (PA Caldwell, Waters, Lateral)
    • Mandible: Obliques (SIM)
    • Nasal Bones: Lateral (SIM)

CLINICAL COMPETENCY MASTER LIST

  1. Category V: Spine and Pelvis
    • Cervical Spine
    • Cross Table Horizontal Beam Lateral Spine (patient recumbent)*
    • Thoracic Spine 
    • Lumbar Spine
    • Pelvis
    • Hip
    • Trauma: Hip (Horizontal Beam)*
    • Sacroiliac Joints (SIM)
    • Sacrum and Coccyx (SIM)
  2. Category VI: Abdomen
    • Abdomen Supine (KUB)
    • Abdomen Upright
    • Abdomen Decubitus (SIM)
  3. Category VII: Fluoroscopy Studies
    • Upper GI
    • Enema
    • Small Bowel Series
    • Esophagus
    • Myelogram or Arthrogram
    • Bronchoscopy or ERCP
  4. Category VIII: Mobile C-Arm Studies
    • C-Arm (requiring manipulation to obtain more than 1 projection)
    • Surgical C-Arm (requiring manipulation around a sterile field)
  5. Category IX: Mobile Studies
    • Chest
    • Abdomen
    • Upper or Lower Extremity
  6. Category X: Pediatrics (age 6 or younger)
    • Mobile
    • Chest
    • Upper or Lower Extremity
  7. Category XI: Geriatric (65 or older and impaired as a result of aging)
    • Chest 
    • Upper or Lower Extremity
    • Hip or Spine

*Trauma is considered a serious injury or shock to the body. Modifications may include variations in positioning, minimal movement of the body part, etc.

MINIMUM COMPETENCY NUMBERS PER SEMESTER

Each semester a minimum number of clinical competencies are required for satisfactory progress. The minimum number of clinical competencies required varies each semester with the didactic and clinical skill level of the student.

The minimum number of clinical competencies each semester is as follows:

RAD 1502 Clinical Education I = 2

RAD 1512 Clinical Education II = 6

RAD 2002 Clinical Education III = 10

RAD 2603 Clinical Education IV = 10

RAD 2703 Clinical Education V = ALL     

Any competency completed over the minimum number per semester will carry over to the following semester.                             

CLINICAL SUPERVISION/REPEAT RADIOGRAPHS POLICY

During the two-year period in the Radiologic Technology Program at National Park College, students will participate in laboratory and clinical experiences to:

  • Acquire expertise and proficiency in a wide variety of diagnostic radiographic procedures by applying classroom theory to the actual practice of technical skills on specified levels of competence.
  • Develop and practice professional work habits and appropriate interpersonal relationships with patients and other members of the health care team.

Students will gain competence through an integrated system of classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences. The structure of this curriculum is designed such that the student will have the opportunity to acquire the necessary cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills to become a qualified Radiologic Technologist. Through accomplishment of the behavioral objectives, the student will move from the passive mode of observation of a registered technologist to the more active mode of clinical performer. The Radiologic Technology student will gradually become independent in the performance of radiographic procedures.

Until a student achieves and documents competency in any given procedure, all clinical assignments shall be carried out under the direct supervision of qualified Radiologic Technologists.

The parameters of direct supervision are: 

  1. A qualified Radiologic Technologist reviews the request for examination in relation to the student's achievement,
  2. A qualified Radiologic Technologist evaluates the condition of the patient in relation to the student's knowledge,
  3. A qualified Radiologic Technologist is present during the conducting of the examination, and,
  4. A qualified Radiologic Technologist reviews and approves the radiographs.

In support of professional responsibility for provision of quality patient care and radiation protection, unsatisfactory radiographs shall be repeated only in the presence of a qualified Radiologic Technologist, regardless of the student's level of competency.

After demonstrating competency, students may perform procedures with indirect supervision.

"Indirect supervision" is defined as that supervision provided by a qualified Radiologic Technologist immediately available to assist students regardless of the level of student achievement.

"Immediately Available" is interpreted as the presence of a qualified Radiologic Technologist adjacent to the room or located where a radiographic procedure is being performed. This availability applies to all areas where ionizing radiation equipment is in use.

When a student performs an examination and that examination must be repeated, the student must have a registered technologist assist in the repeat examination and a signature is required on the clinical patient daily examination entry in Trajecsys to verify supervision.

RADIATION PROTECTION POLICY

A student is required to exercise sound radiation protection practices at all times. At no time may a student participate in a procedure utilizing unsafe protection practices. If a student’s dosimeter reading is over 100 mR (1 mSv) for any month or 300 mR (3 mSv) for any quarter, investigation and documentation will be required.

With the exception of fluoroscopy, a student will not hold patients while exposures are occurring.

A student must always wear a dosimeter on their collar while in the clinical site and in all laboratory classes.

A student will leave the radiographic room while a radiographic exposure is being made unless the student is assisting in fluoroscopy. The student will wear a lead apron and thyroid shield while in fluoroscopy. The dosimeter must be worn outside the lead apron at the collar level.

A student will always remove personal radiation monitors while having diagnostic medical or dental radiographs.

A student will always utilize a maximum distance allowed between themselves and the portable exposure unit.

Radiation protection of the patient is the student's responsibility when he/she is performing the study.

The student must be aware of and enforce the policies and procedures of patient shielding of the individual clinical site in which they are assigned.

The student will continually be mindful to keep exposures "As Low as Reasonably Achievable" (ALARA), during clinical rotations. In addition, the student will make every effort to abide by the Cardinal Principles: Time, Distance and Shielding.

RADIATION DOSIMETRY

Use, Wear and Storage of Your Dosimeter

Your radiation monitor is a precision instrument that must be used, worn and stored properly for you to receive maximum benefits its purpose is to measure how much ionizing radiation you are exposed to over a specified period of time (one month). The accuracy of the dosimeter reading depends on you. Each month the dosimeters are collected and sent off for a reading or analysis which tells the amount of radiation exposure. This dosimeter report of exposure is circulated each month. Radiation report is signed monthly by students and kept on file.

Any exposure that exceeds the 100 mR (1 mSV) per month or 300 mR (3 mSv) per quarter is investigated promptly by the Radiation Safety Officer/Clinical Coordinator. The RSO will notify the student or faculty member if he or she exceeds ALARA notification level. Students can be assured that the monthly reports are closely monitored by the RSO. Students are not allowed to perform radiologic examinations without their dosimeters. Students will be sent home immediately for reporting to clinical or laboratory without dosimeter.

Radiation Exposure Can Be Reduced By:

  • Time: Reduce the time you spend at or near a radiation source
  • Distance: Increase the distance between yourself and the source of radiation
  • Shielding: Use appropriate shielding (lead aprons, thyroid shields, gloves)

Methods to Assure Accuracy of Your Radiation Dosimeter Reports

The radiation dose equivalents shown on your radiation dosimeter reports should reflect your radiation dose received during the month. These numerical values will accurately represent occupational radiation dose received provided several simple precautions are observed:

  • Wear your dosimeter when performing duties which involve x-ray exposure or radioactive sealed or unsealed sources.
  • Wear only the dosimeter which is assigned to you. Do not wear anyone else’s or allow anyone else to wear yours.
  • Wear your dosimeter clipped to your collar near the neck. Do not wear your dosimeter under the lead apron.
  • If dosimeter is lost or misplaced, report this immediately to the RSO to obtain a replacement prior to working with any radiation source.
  • If you work in another facility, wear only the dosimeter provided by that institution.
  • Do not wear your dosimeter during your own routine medical or dental x-ray.
  • Dosimeters should not be exposed to extreme heat such as in an automobile during the heat, in a clothes dryer, and a tanning salon.
  • If dosimeter is lost, you will be counted absent until a replacement dosimeter arrives. Missed days due to a lost dosimeter must be made up during finals week. These absences could result in exceeding the allowable missed days per semester, resulting in termination.
  • Dosimeters are collected monthly by program faculty. Each student must initial the radiation dosimetry report upon receipt as proof of acknowledgement of monthly dose.

PROCEDURE FOR EXCESSIVE DOSAGE

If a student receives a radiation dose in excess of 100 mR (1 mSV) per month or 300 mR (3 mSv) per quarter the following actions will be taken:

  1. The Program Director will meet with the student to identify to the student the excessive dosage received.
  2. The Program director will discuss with the student the consequences associated with radiation dose.
  3. The Program Director and the student will identify various causes for the excessive dosage.
  4. The Program Director and the student will determine the cause of the excessive dosage.
  5. Any corrective action needed will be explained to the student and performed.
  6. Documentation of the above actions will be placed in the student’s file.

CLINICAL ATTENDANCE

Trajecsys is the only accepted method for documenting clinical time. Students must clock in and out each clinical day with location services enabled. Make sure you are logged in under correct site. Failure to provide proper documentation is a violation of professional responsibility and will be reflected in the clinical grade. If a student forgets to clock in, a time exception will be required to be submitted the same day.

Students are expected to attend all clinical experiences.  All students have two days allotted for fall and spring semesters and one day allotted for summer semester. In the event that an absence must occur due to a death in the immediate family, a summons to court, orientation for work, doctor/dentist appointments, a sick child or any other occurrence causing a clinical absence will result in the use of one of the two days. Each absence past two days will result in a letter grade being dropped for clinical education.

If a student is going to miss a clinical day, the student is expected to notify both NPC clinical faculty and the hospital/clinic as soon as possible. Failure to notify all appropriate persons of a clinical absence is a violation of professional responsibility and will lower the clinical grade by one letter and will result in written counseling and/or probation. All absences will be documented in Trajecsys.

Students will never ask to leave a clinical site early or “skip” lunch to leave early. A written warning will be issued for violation.

TARDY

Students are expected to be in their assigned clinical area clocked into Trajecsys prior to scheduled start time. If a student arrives after their scheduled start time up to 15 minutes late, the student will be considered tardy. Two tardies in a semester will equal one absence.

Students are assigned to clinical education sites which differ in number of daily hours. Thirty minutes of the daily assignment is allotted for meal break. In most cases, students are not to leave the clinical education site for lunch. A student is expected to take a lunch break and leave the clinical site at the assigned time. Lunch break time cannot be used to leave the clinical assignment before the set time.

UNIFORM GUIDELINES

All Radiologic Technology students are required to adhere to the program's dress code when in the clinical setting. This code is adopted in order for the student to maintain a professional, clean appearance while in the clinical setting. While you are in uniform (on or off campus) you must conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times. The student will be sent home immediately for any violations of the dress code.

  1. Official NPC uniforms are to be worn which will consist of blue scrub top and pants/skirt, long-sleeve lab jacket, markers, name badge and radiation dosimeter. Lab coats must be long-sleeve and worn over uniforms for clinical or operating room rotation if applicable to the institution guidelines. Black t-shirts may be worn under the uniform top. If skirts are worn, nude or black pantyhose must be worn. Uniforms must be kept clean and wrinkle free. No other jacket will be worn in the clinical setting except for the required lab coat. Students will be sent home from their clinical site, resulting in an absence.
  2. Shoes must be black, no mesh or any color allowed, including white. Black socks are required.
  3. Face shield/goggles or other protective eyewear that encloses the eyes and hospital grade masks must be worn at all times during clinical education. Students will be sent home if these are not on at all times.
  4. Jewelry is limited to a wedding band and a watch (no smart watches). Small stud earrings are allowed. No necklace or bracelets of any type shall be permitted. No ear gauges are allowed.
  5. No perfume, cologne or scented lotions shall be worn in the clinical areas.
  6. Hair must be kept clean, confined so that it does not interfere with patient care. Hair must be kept off the shoulders and collar. If hair touches shoulders then it must be pulled back into a clip or pony tail holder. Hair accessories will be black in color only. Hair color must be naturally occurring and style should be within accepted societal norms. Facial hair must be kept neat and trimmed to less than half inch. The program may require facial hair to be removed to ensure proper fitting of facial N95 mask.
  7. Nails are to be kept short and clean. No polish is allowed. Fingernails must not be seen past tips of fingers. No artificial nails or nail tips are be allowed.
  8. Students are expected to maintain necessary personal hygiene including daily bathing, shampooing hair, using underarm deodorant, and brushing teeth.
  9. The odor of tobacco must not be detectable on clothing or person. Student will be sent home from clinical if a tobacco odor is detected.
  10. An official NPC name badge is to be worn on the left side of the chest on the uniform. This name badge should contain your first name only. You must have this name badge with you at all times. Lead markers cannot be placed on the front of the name badge. Student will be sent home from clinical if name badge is not worn.
  11. A radiation dosimeter will be issued prior to the beginning of the laboratory and clinical experiences. The dosimeter must be worn at all times in clinical and laboratory areas. Student will be sent home from clinical or laboratory area if dosimeter is not worn.
  12. Visible tattoos must be covered while in the clinical areas. A black tattoo sleeve must be purchased. No exceptions. Student will be sent home from clinical if a tattoo is exposed.
  13. A small pocket size notebook and pen are required each clinical day.
  14. Cell phones are not permitted in patient care areas. Cell phones must be left in a cabinet/storage area with personal belongings. Student may not take photos inside any clinical facility at any time. Cell phones cannot be kept on a student at any time.
  15. No laptops or tablets are allowed in the clinical setting.
  16. No student will be allowed to wear false eyelashes into the clinical setting.
  17. No recording devices will be allowed in the clinical setting.

OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT

When a student is employed in a Radiology Department, there are several rules to which he or she must adhere.

  1. Student malpractice does not cover the student when he/she is employed.
  2. The employer must provide students with a separate dosimeter. Students will not wear the badge provided by NPC when working at an outside employment.
  3. The student will not receive release time from clinical education in order to attend orientation or to work for pay. Student will be subject to dismissal from the program on grounds of unethical behavior.
  4. The student will not log or comp any procedure during employment. Student will be subject to dismissal from the program on grounds of unethical behavior.
  5. The student will not wear a NPC regulated uniform during employment.

PATIENT HOLDING POLICY

A student should never hold image receptors during any radiographic procedure. A student should not hold or restrain patients during exposures. Restraining devices such as pigg-o-stat, tape, sandbags, and sheets are recommended. If a mechanical restraint is impossible, a non-pregnant parent, friend or relative accompanying the patient should be requested to hold the patient. If such a person is not available, a non-radiology staff member may be asked to help. Those persons assisting in holding the patient must be provide with protective aprons.

MARKERS

Students will use their required initialed right and left markers to properly identify the radiographic images performed.  Students who misplace or lose their markers must replace them as soon as possible from www.techno-aide.com. Students who report to clinical or laboratory without markers will be sent home, resulting in a clinical/laboratory absence for the day. Students will be counted absent every day until markers are replaced, and possibly result in exceeding allowed clinical absences.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS

Students are not allowed to participate in clinical activities without documentation of being in good health. Required immunizations must be documented and maintained in Verified Credentials. Immunizations may require titers to prove immunity to MMR, Varicella, and Hepatitis B.

  • Negative TB skin test
  • Hepatitis B series (series of 2 or 3 injections) or must submit a positive Titer
  • MMR (measles, mumps, rubella – series of 2 injections) or must submit a positive Titer
  • Varicella (chicken pox- series of 2 injections) or must submit a positive Titer
  • TDAP within the last 10 years
  • Seasonal Flu Shot
  • COVID-19 vaccine series

INSURANCE COVERAGE AND ACCIDENTS

Liability: The College maintains liability insurance for all students while working in the clinical education site. (Strictly provides coverage if negligence to a patient occurs as a result of student carelessness).

Health: Students are required to carry their own health insurance.

Worker’s Compensation: Students enrolled in the radiologic technology program are not employees of the clinical education site and are, therefore, not covered by the Worker’s Compensation Act.

Accidents:  If a student is injured at the clinical site, he/she must notify the on-site clinical preceptor and college faculty immediately. Students must fill out a written accident report as soon as possible following any accident or injury. In addition, a hospital accident report form should be completed. Students are responsible for any expenses incurred as a result of injury. Following completion of accident report, the student must leave the clinical site and the day made up at the end of the semester. No exceptions will be granted.

Emergency Treatment:  All costs for any treatment received will be the responsibility of the student. Students are prohibited from soliciting free medical advice or service by personnel or clinical sites.

REGULATIONS REGARDING BLOOD BORNE PATHOGENS

All students will comply with all clinical education centers policies, all OSHA regulations, and all NPC policies regarding blood borne pathogens. Failure to comply with these regulations and policies will result in the student being dismissed from the program.

ACCIDENTAL EXPOSURE TO BLOOD OR BODY FLUIDS

Exposure is defined as a percutaneous injury, contact of mucous membranes, or contact of non-intact skin with blood or other body fluids or tissues that may potentially contain blood borne pathogens.

In the event of accidental exposure of students or faculty, the following steps are to be instituted:

  1. Wound Care/First Aid:
  • Clean wound with soap and water.
  • Flush mucous membranes with water or normal saline solution.
  • Other wound care as indicated.
  1. The exposure will be documented on the incident form that is used by the agency in which the exposure occurred.
  2. The completed incident report form will be submitted to the appropriate agency representative (e.g. infection control nurse).
  3. The person who is exposed to blood or body fluids will be referred for medical care and/or appropriate testing; however, the decision to obtain medical care or testing will rest solely with the person experiencing the exposure. The health care options available for students or faculty include, but are not limited to: the emergency or outpatient department of the agency in which the exposure occurred (at personal expense); the county health department; or the private physician of the individual's choice. The person experiencing the exposure will be asked to sign a statement verifying that they have been told and understand the options.
  4. It is vital that students understand that they are responsible financially for any expenses incurred in the course of treatment or testing. Neither National Park College nor the clinical agency will assume any liability (financial or otherwise) regarding the exposure incident.
  5. If the exposed individual chooses to seek medical care and/or testing, the health care provider conducting the testing will provide all pre and post testing counseling.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES GUIDELINES

The Division of Radiologic Technology supports the philosophy that:

The health care professional provides services with respect for the dignity and uniqueness of man, unrestricted by consideration of the nature of the health problems.

In accordance with the above statement, the faculty believes professionals have a responsibility to provide care to all patients and that refusal to care for patients with a communicable disease is contrary to healthcare ethics. In accordance with this philosophy, the Radiologic Technology faculty:

  1. is committed to providing current education regarding the modes of transmission of all communicable diseases, and information concerning protective precautions against transmission of these diseases;
  2. will support the concept that students care for patients with a communicable disease only after having been educated on the transmission factors and the techniques of care as suggested by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention;
  3. supports the practice that faculty and students who are immunocompromised, whose skin is not intact, or who are pregnant may not be assigned to infectious patients;
  4. demonstrates concern for the protection of immunocompromised patients by adhering to the practice of faculty and students with transmissible infections not being assigned to immunocompromised patients; and
  5. Requires that all students and faculty implement standard precautions when coming into contact with body fluids of all patients.

Accidental exposure to infectious diseases including COVID-19 is always possible when working in any healthcare setting. However, students should not knowingly come in contact with any patient who has tested positive for COVID-19 or is suspected of having the virus. NPC students will adhere to any institutional specific policies related to COVID-19 during clinical rotations.

Covid-19 specific learning module must be completed, with 100% score, in order to begin clinical rotations.

STUDENT REFUSAL TO CARE

In the unlikely event that a student should refuse to care for a patient who has a communicable disease, the faculty will:

  1. Counsel with the student to identify the reasons for the refusal;
  2. give factual information regarding communicable disease; and
  3. discuss legal and ethical responsibilities of health care professionals in providing care.

If the issue is not resolved by the above steps, the faculty may counsel with the student as to the appropriateness of a career in health care. Cases of student refusal will be handled on an individual basis considering both the course objectives and individual circumstances. However, the student should realize that he or she is being educated to enter a health care profession; therefore, each student is held to the same ethical and legal standards of care under which a professional would be held. The act of permitting a student's refusal to care for a patient with a communicable disease could be interpreted as a discriminatory act against a disabled person (Rehabilitation Act of 1973).

These policies will be reviewed regularly and upon the release of new findings or recommendations from the CDC or the Public Health Service, revisions will be made to assure the policies remain appropriate and current.

References:

  1. Center for Disease Control Coronavirus (Covid-19) https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
  2. Arkansas Department of Health https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/novel-coronavirus

PREGNANT STUDENT POLICY

A pregnant student is required to meet all course/program outcomes including attendance. It is advisable for the student to contact her obstetrician, once the pregnancy has been confirmed, to ensure that there are no medical concerns/limitations. The radiology student has the option to declare or not declare that she is pregnant.

If the student declares that she is pregnant, she shall voluntarily submit a statement that she is pregnant. It is recommended that she obtain a letter from her physician stating that the student can participate in the particular clinical training. The program faculty shall meet with the pregnant student and advise her on radiation safety.

The recommendations in National Council in Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) No. 91 and 107 will be complied with "a total dose equivalent limit (excluding medical exposure) of 500 mR (5mSv) for the embryo-fetus. Once the pregnancy has become known, exposures of the embryo-fetus shall be no greater than 500mR (0.5 mSv) in any month (excluding medical exposure)."

A second dosimeter will be issued to the student to be worn at the waist level at all times while in the clinical or laboratory area. This dosimeter is to be worn between the student's anterior abdomen and any lead protective wear (lead apron) while performing fluoroscopic examinations, bedside or surgical procedures. A wraparound apron and/or extra lead apron are recommended.

If the student elects to continue in the Radiologic Technology Program during pregnancy, she will be required to sign a form releasing NPC and the program of any responsibility should problems arise during the pregnancy.

OPTIONS: 

Following the voluntary written disclosure to the program director, the student will select one of the following:

  1. Withdraw from the program
  2. Continue full-time status with limited rotations excluding surgery, portable and fluoroscopic procedures until she is past the first trimester of pregnancy.
  3. Continue full-time status with no modifications.
  4. Submit in writing the student’s choice of the above options within 48 hours following the presentation of the written disclosure of pregnancy. If withdrawal from the program is selected, no other action is required.

If option (2) or (3) is chosen, the student will:

  1. Counsel with the program director regarding the nature of potential radiation injury associated with in-utero exposure, the regulatory limits established by the NCRP, and the required preventive measures to be taken throughout the gestation period.
  2. Wear two (2) personnel monitoring dosimeters. One dosimeter is placed on the collar and one is placed on the abdomen for fetal monitoring.
  3. At no time and for no reason will the pregnant student place herself in the primary beam of radiation.
  4. Report to the clinical coordinator or program director if she feels that she is working in an unsafe area or under conditions she feels are detrimental to herself or the fetus.
  5. Be withdrawn from all clinical courses for the remainder of her pregnancy, if she exceeds the maximum permissible dose.
  6. Be informed that all attendance, absence, and make-up policies will be equally enforced.
  7. See attendance policy for specific details.

The pregnant student may withdraw the declaration of pregnancy at any time. The declaration must be done in writing.

CLINICAL DISCIPLINARY POLICY AND GROUNDS FOR PROBATION AND DISMISSAL

Students in the radiologic technology program are required to display the professional attitude necessary to promote a positive image of radiologic technology to patients, fellow students, technologists, physicians, the college, and the general public. However, if he/she fails to abide by the policies and procedures of this handbook, he/she has failed to promote a positive image of their profession, and thus may become subject to probation and/or dismissal.

Removal from a Clinical Education Center:

A student may be removed from a clinical education center at the request of the on-site clinical preceptor. The request must be in writing and must contain the following items:

  1. Objective reason(s) for the request.
  2. Documentation of efforts to correct the situation.
  3. The results of these efforts, and
  4. Any other information supporting the request.

The following reason(s) may be considered as grounds for removal from a clinical education center:

  1. The student has received three incident reports while at that clinical education center.
  2. The student has demonstrated blatant abuse of hospital policies and procedures.
  3. Alcohol and drug abuse while at the clinical site.
  4. Irreconcilable personality difference.
  5. Chronic poor performance which may be characterized by an excessive repeat rate, failure to progress, poor listening and communication skills, and/or consistent failure to follow directions and departmental routines, excessive absences.
  6. Any other circumstances which demonstrate poor student performance overall.
  7. The request of the Director and/or Human Resources.

Probation Guidelines:

A student may be placed on probation if an infraction of any of the various policies occurs. An “Unsatisfactory Performance Contract” (probation form) will be completed by the student, the faculty and the clinical preceptor (if applicable). Probation will extend to the length of time designated on the contract and/or the satisfaction of the conditions of the contract agreed upon by the parties above.

The following infractions will cause the student to be placed on probation:

  1. The student receives less than a “C” in a mid-term course grade in the radiologic technology curriculum. Probation will continue during that semester during which time the student must earn a “C” or better.
  2. A student is removed from one clinical affiliate due to unsatisfactory performance at the request of the clinical preceptor, Director and/or Human Resources. (request must be made in writing). Probation will extend until completion of the radiologic technology program in this instance.
  3. A student is performing below standards in one or more areas of his/her training, both academically and clinically, which includes but is not limited to the student’s clinical rotation evaluations and annual student evaluations. Probation will be applied and extended at the discretion of the program faculty.
  4. Chronic poor performance in either the clinical or didactic aspects of a student’s education which may include: excessive absenteeism, poor communication skills, lack of respect toward program faculty, college faculty and staff, clinical staff, patients, and fellow classmates, or other circumstances which inhibit successful completion of the program.

Dismissal Guidelines:

A student may be removed from the program based on various infractions of policies outlined in the Radiographic Technology Program Student Handbook. The authority to dismiss a student from the program rests solely with the Program Director.

The following infractions are grounds for removal from the program:

  1. Academic Dishonesty: This includes cheating, plagiarism, or any other attempt to use someone else’s work as one’s own. Any student guilty of this may also be subject to expulsion from the college.
  2. Two consecutively failing clinical rotation evaluations.
  3. Failure to follow the supervision policy on direct and indirect supervision.
  4.   Failure to follow the repeat policy requiring direct supervision for all repeat images regardless of the student’s competency level.
  5. A student is removed from a second clinical affiliate at the written request of the clinical preceptor due to unsatisfactory performance.
  6. The failure to respect patient confidentiality (HIPAA).
  7. Documented patient endangerment.
  8. Failure to satisfactorily complete the conditions outlined in an unsatisfactory performance contract.
  9. Violation of any Radiologic Technology Program policy while on probation.
  10. Failure to earn a grade of “C” or better in a radiologic technology curriculum course.
  11. Drug and/or alcohol abuse.
  12. Profanity in the classroom or clinical setting.
  13. Any infraction resulting in expulsion from the college.