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PARAMEDIC PROGRAM COURSE CATALOG 2013 - 2014 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES Volume 3 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome.......................................................................................................................Page 2 Disclosure……………………………………………………………………………………………3 Disclaimer……………………………………………………………………………………………3 Mission & Values……………………………………………………………………………………3 Accreditation…………………………………………………………………………………………4 Contact Information…………………………………………………………………………………5 Facilities………………………………………………………………………………………………6 Academic Calendar…………………………………………………………………………………7 Course Descriptions…………………………………………………………………………….8-13 Paramedic Program Policies………………………………………………………………….14-34 FORMS: Enrollment Application Background Check Consent Form Authorization to Release Student Information Form Request for Credit by Examination Immunization Record Form Cancellation/Withdrawal Request Form 1 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM Congratulations on your decision to continue your education in Pre-hospital Emergency Medicine at the Paramedic level. We will strive hard to give you the best possible class environment and learning experience that we can! I am a firm believer that we can accomplish anything that we set our minds to. I must stress to you, however, that as with any other course, you will get out of this class exactly what you put into it. It is up to each of you to be successful. It is up to each of you to give your best. What does this mean? It means, be responsible for your destiny! All of us at Emergency Training Associates, Inc. are facilitators for your learning. That does not mean that we are going to do your work for you! We cannot teach you common sense. That is something that has to come from within you. It has been said that Emergency Medicine is 90% common sense, 5% equipment, and 5% education. I agree with that assessment. Good Luck – Work Hard – Be Responsible – Use your common sense and you will be successful! Cordially, Dennis A. Ehrichs Program Director 2 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM DISCLOSURE Emergency Training Associates, Inc. is licensed as a Private Career School with the Minnesota Office of Higher Education pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, sections 141.21 to 141.32. Licensure is not an endorsement of the institution. Credits earned at the institution may not transfer to all other institutions. DISCLAIMER Emergency Training Associates reserves the right to make changes to curriculum, rules, and fees whenever such changes are deemed necessary. Catalogs are usually prepared by staff for the purpose of furnishing prospective students with information about the school. Information contained in this catalog is subject to change without notice and may not be regarded in the same nature of binding obligations on the school and the State. MISSION We believe that each person in the areas we serve deserves quality emergency care. Emergency Training Associates, Inc. strives to train high quality paramedics that are critical to the health care system. It is our commitment to provide quality instruction and service, consistent with the highest standards of education. We strive to honor this commitment by providing profession, pertinent, accurate, and cost effective education. VALUES Emergency Training Associates, Inc. believes that people are our most valuable resource. Therefore, we also believe that: Treating people with dignity is essential to harmonious relationships. A person’s individual measure of success cannot be attained without belief in their own abilities. All people can contribute to society. Values are the foundation of individual choices. Trust cannot exist without honesty. Sharing enhances effectiveness. Individual quality of life is a balance between work and leisure. Learning is a continuous process throughout life. Excellence grows from measured quality. Success cannot be attained without risk. Adapting to change is essential to survival. 3 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM ACCREDITATION ETA and the Greater Minnesota Paramedic Consortium has been delivering high quality EMS training courses since our founding in 1993. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP), 1361 Park St, Clearwater, FL 33756, Ph: 727-210-2350, Fax: 727-210-2354 Accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Education Programs for the EMS Professions (CoAEMSP), 4101 W Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington, TX 76016, Ph: 817-3300080, Fax: 817-330-0089 Licensed by the Minnesota Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board (MNEMSRB), 2829 University Ave SE, Suite 310, Minneapolis, MN 55414-3250, Ph: 651-201-2800, 800747-2011, Fax: 651-201-2812 Recognized by the National Registry of EMT as an authorized training institution, 6610 Busch Blvd, PO Box 29233, Columbus, OH 43229, Ph: 614-888-4484, Fax: 614-888-8920 This course has been approved by and is taught in accordance with: National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians United States Department of Transportation Minnesota EMS Regulatory Board (MNEMSRB) State of ND – Division of EMS. After successful completion of this course, the student will be eligible for the National Registry’s Practical and CAT examinations. Upon passing these examinations, the student will be qualified for employment as an entry level paramedic. 4 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM CONTACT INFORMATION PRESIDENT Bjorn Ringdahl VICE PRESIDENT Tollef Ringdahl EMS PROGRAM DIRECTOR Denny Ehrichs Office: 218-998-2739 Cell: 218-849-4400 Email: [email protected] EMS PROGRAM COORDINATOR Vicki Berreth Office: 701-251-2273 Cell: 701-226-0120 Email: [email protected] EMS PROGRAM CO-DIRECTOR MARKETING DIRECTOR Randy Fischer Office: 218-736-2819 Cell: 218-731-8216 Email: [email protected] PROGRAM MEDICAL DIRECTORS Steve Davis, MD Philip Jystad, MD CLINICAL COORDINATOR FINANCIAL AID DIRECTOR RECRUITER/SOLICITOR Carol Krump Cell: 701-640-0262* Home: 218-557-9224 *Try cell # first Email: [email protected] INSTRUCTORS Alfredo Altimirano, PA Dr. Davis Vicki Berreth Dennis Ehrichs Randy Fischer Bjorn Ringdahl Matt VanGrinsven Dr. Jystad FERGUS FALLS OFFICE MANAGER HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICER Cindy Ehrichs Office: 218-998-2739 Email: [email protected] JAMESTOWN OFFICE MANAGER Nancy Miller Office: 701-251-2273 Email: [email protected] MN OFFICE OF HIGHER EDUCATION 1450 Energy Park Dr, Suite 350 St. Paul, MN 55108-5227 Phone: 651-642-0567 Toll Free: 800-657-3866 Fax: 651-642-0675 5 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM FACILITIES FERGUS FALLS CAMPUS: The Fergus Falls Campus is located at 214 E Junius Ave., Fergus Falls, Minnesota. The classroom is in the back section of Ringdahl Ambulance Service, Inc. The classroom has seating for up to 30 students, ITV capabilities, and wireless internet access. JAMESTOWN CAMPUS: The Jamestown Campus is located at 502 1st Ave. S., Jamestown, North Dakota. The classroom is in the upper level of Ringdahl Ambulance Service, Inc. – Jamestown Area Ambulance Service. The classroom has seating for up to 20 students, ITV capabilities, and wireless internet access. MORRIS CAMPUS: The Morris Campus is located at 209 S. Hwy. 9, Morris, Minnesota. The training facility is a 1000 square foot training room with two lab stations, ITV capabilities, and wireless internet access. BEMIDJI CAMPUS: The Bemidji Campus is located at Clearwater County Hospital, 203 4th St NW, Bagley, MN. The training facility has two training rooms, has seating for up to 20 students, ITV capabilities, and wireless internet access. 6 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM ACADEMIC CALENDAR January 16, 2013 March 31, 2013 April 10, 2013 May 12, 2013 May 27, 2013 June 16 July 3, 2013 July 4, 2013 July 10, 2013 September 2, 2013 September 21, 2013 November 27, 2013 November 28, 2013 December 25, 2013 January 1, 2014 January 19, 2014 January 22, 2014 First Day of Class Easter End of 1st Quarter Mother’s Day Memorial Day Father’s Day No class Independence Day End of 2nd Quarter Labor Day End of 3rd Quarter No Class Thanksgiving Christmas – No Class New Year’s Day – No Class Final Course Written Exam Final Course Practical Exam End of 4th Quarter NOTE: These dates are subject to change with notification going out to all students. 7 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM COURSE DESCRIPTION EMS 101- Preparatory (16 Hours – 1 Credit) EMS Systems / Roles and Responsibilities Well Being of the Paramedic Injury and Illness Prevention Medical & Legal Issues/Ethics This is the first course leading towards certification as an EMT-Paramedic. This course provides the learner with an understanding of his/her roles and responsibilities within the EMS system, and how these roles and responsibilities differ from other levels of providers. The paramedic student will come to understand the value and importance of personal wellness in EMS and serve as a healthy role model for peers. The paramedic student will learn to integrate the implementation of primary injury prevention activities as an effective way to reduce death, disabilities and healthcare costs. This course provides the learner with an understanding of the role that ethics plays in decision making and the medical and legal issues surrounding EMS. EMS 102 – Terminology (16 hours – 1 Credit) This course covers prefixes, suffixes, and roots used to compose medical terms. The student learns to spell, pronounce, define, analyze, and formulate terminology related to body structure, disease, diagnosis, and treatment. Medical abbreviations are also included. EMS 103 - Anatomy & Pathophysiology (64 Hours – 4 Credits) This course will prepare the paramedic student to apply the general concepts of anatomy and physiology and pathophysiology for the assessment and management of patients suffering from illness or injury. EMS 104 – Pharmacology (32 Hours – 2 Credits) This course is comprised of five sections and covers basic drug information, the action of drugs, weights and measures, administration of drugs and techniques of their administration. This course provides the learner with hands on in the administration of oral, subcutaneous, intramuscular and I.V. medications and their dose calculation and prepares them for clinical experience in which medications are administered to patients in the hospital and in the field. EMS 105—Venous Access and Medication Administration (16 Hours – 1 Credit) This course will present to the learner safe and precise access to venous circulation for fluid resuscitation and the administration of medication. EMS 106 (32 Hours - 2 Credits) Patient Assessment Therapeutic Communication Life Span Development 8 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM This course is designed to instruct the learner on using appropriate techniques to obtain a medical history from a patient. Paramedic students will learn how to integrate the principles of history taking and techniques of physical exam to perform a patient assessment. The paramedic student will also learn the accepted format for dissemination of patient information in verbal form, either in person or over the radio. In addition, the learner will be instructed in how to effectively document the essential elements of patient assessment, care and transport. This course instructs the learner to integrate the principles of therapeutic communication to effectively communicate with any patient while providing care. The student will learn to integrate the physiological, psychological, and sociological changes throughout human development with assessment and communication strategies for patients of all ages. EMS 107—Airway Management & Ventilation (32 Hours – 2 Credits) Airway/Respiratory Systems A & P Pathology Of Airway Obstruction Respiratory Pharmacology Assessment & Management This course is designed to instruct the paramedic student on techniques used to establish and maintain a patent airway, as well as oxygenate and ventilate the patient. EMS 108—Medical I:Pulmonary and Respiratory Emergencies (16 Hours – 1 Credit) Respiratory Anatomy & Physiology Clinical Consequence of Pathological Change Respiratory Disease Assessment & Management This course will instruct the paramedic student to integrate pathophysiological principles and assessment findings to formulate a field impression and implement the treatment plan for the patient with respiratory problems. EMS 109—Medical II – Cardiology (64 Hours – 4 Credits) Cardiovascular Anatomy and Physiology Clinical Consequences of Pathological Change Cardiovascular Assessment Interventions in the Management of Cardiovascular Disease ECG Monitoring Cardiac Arrhythmias Advanced Cardiac Life Support This course is designed to instruct the paramedic student to integrate pathophysiological principles and assessment findings to formulate a field impression and implement the treatment plan for the patient with cardiovascular disease. 9 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM EMS 110—Medical III—Medical Emergencies (48 Hours – 3 Credits) Neurology Endocrinology Allergies / Anaphylaxis Gastroenterology Renal / Urology Toxicology This course is designed to instruct the paramedic student to integrate pathophysiological principles and assessment findings to formulate a field impression and implement a treatment plan for the patient with neurological problems, endocrine problems, allergies and anaphylactic reactions, gastroenterological and urologic problems, and toxic exposure. EMS 111—Medical IV—Medical Emergencies (32 Hours – 2 Credits) Hematology Environmental Conditions Infections and Communicable Diseases Behavioral / Psychiatric Disorders This course instructs the paramedic student to integrate the pathophysiological principles of the hematopoietic system, to formulate a field impression and implement a treatment plan for the patient with hematologic crisis. The student will learn to do the same for those patients with an environmentally induced or exacerbated medical or traumatic condition, and also for the patient with infectious and communicable diseases. This course will instruct the paramedic student to describe and demonstrate safe, empathetic competence in caring for patients with behavioral emergencies. EMS 112—Medical V—Obstetrics/Gynecology/Neonatology/Pediatrics (48 hours – 3 credits) This course will instruct the paramedic student to apply an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system to the assessment and management of a patient experiencing normal or abnormal labor and gynecological emergencies. This course will instruct the paramedic student to integrate the pathophysiological principles and assessment findings to formulate a field impression and implement a treatment plan for the neonatal and pediatric patient in distress. EMS 113—Trauma (48 Hours – 3 Credits) This course will instruct the paramedic student to integrate the principles of kinematics to enhance the patient assessment and predict the likelihood of injuries based on patient’s mechanism of injury. The learner will be able to integrate the pathophysiological principles and assessment findings to formulate a field impression and implement a treatment plan for the patient with the following presentations: 10 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM Hemorrhage and Shock Head & facial Trauma Abdominal Trauma Soft tissue trauma Spinal Trauma Musculoskeletal Trauma Burns Thoracic Trauma EMS 114—Special Populations (16 Hours – 1 Credit) Geriatrics Abuse and Assault Patients with Special Challenges Acute Interventions for the Chronic Care Patient This course will instruct the paramedic student to integrate the pathophysiological principles and the assessment findings to formulate a field impression and implement a treatment plan for the geriatric patient, the patient who has sustained abuse or assault, for diverse patients and those who face physical, mental, emotional, social and financial changes, and those patients who are in a deteriorating condition or who are chronically ill. EMS 115—Operations (16 Hours – 1 Credit) Ambulance Operations Medical Incident Command Rescue Awareness and Operations Hazardous Materials Incidents Crime Scene Awareness This course will instruct the paramedic student on the standards and guidelines that help ensure safe and effective ground and air medical transport. The student will learn to integrate the principles of general incident management and multiple incident management techniques in order to function effectively at major incidents. The student will learn to integrate the principles of rescue awareness and operations to safely rescue a patient from water, hazardous atmospheres, trenches, highways, and hazardous terrain. During this course the student will learn to evaluate hazardous materials emergencies, call for appropriate resources, and work in a cold zone. The student will also learn to have an awareness of the human hazard of crime and violence and the safe operations at crime scenes and other emergencies. 11 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM EMS 116—Assessment based Management (16 Hours – 1 Credit) This course will assist the paramedic student in integrating the principles of assessment based management to perform an appropriate assessment and implement the management plan for patients with common complaints. EMS 117—Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) (16 Hours – 1 Credit) This course will be a certification course in ACLS, following American Heart Association guidelines for Emergency Cardiac Care. EMS 118—Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) (16 Hours – 1 Credit) This will be a certification course in PHTLS, following the guidelines and PHTLS criteria. EMS 119—Medical Lab—Advanced Medical Simulation Lab (16 Hours – 1 Credit) This course will simulate Medical Patient encounters for the student in a realistic ambulance setting. The student will be tested on a variety of simulated medical patients and will be required to address not only the patients presenting condition(s) and treatment but to include the management of the scene, family, bystanders and hospital personnel. EMS 120—Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) (16 Hours – 1 Credit) This course will be a certification course in PALS following American Heart Association guidelines for Pediatric Emergency Cardiac Care. Field Internship Labs Field Internship labs are designed to assist the student in applying the didactic knowledge and skills learned in the classroom in the field setting. It is through this process that the student will become proficient in the skills necessary to become a competent field paramedic. EMS 121—ALS Ambulance (470 hours – 13 credits) The student will do internships on Advanced Life Support ambulances. The student will be under the guidance of preceptors. Students will not be allowed to participate above their level of training in the classroom, and will be at the discretion of the preceptors. Students must complete minimum competencies in this setting. Hospital Clinical Labs EMS 122—OB, Pediatrics, Psychiatric (72 Hours – 2 Credits) The student will be at a hospital in OB for 10 hours, Pediatric unit for 10 hours and a psychiatric unit. The student will observe or participate when asked by the preceptors. The student must complete minimum competencies in this setting. 12 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM EMS 123—OR, Anesthesia (36 Hours – 1 Credit) The student will be in the operating room under the direct supervision of the anesthesiologist or the CRNA. The student needs to perform endotracheal intubations on patients in the OR. The student must complete minimum competencies in this setting. EMS 124—Emergency Department (72 Hours – 2 Credits) The student will be at the emergency department of affiliate hospitals under the direct supervision of a Paramedic, Nurse or Physician preceptor. The student will participate at the discretion of the preceptors and hospital staff. The students must complete minimum competencies in this setting. 576 classroom hours = 36 credits (16 hours per credit) 650 clinical hours = 18 credits (36 hours per credit) Total Credits = 54 Total Hours = 1226 13 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM PROGRAM POLICIES Students in the Paramedic Program are being trained as Pre-Hospital Medical Professionals. With that in mind, students will conduct themselves in class and clinicals in a manner that is keeping with the profession. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY It is the policy of ETA to comply with federal and state law prohibiting discrimination and all requirements imposed by or pursuant to regulations issued thereto, the end that no person shall on the grounds of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, age or disability be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any course program or in employment, or recruitment consideration or selection, therefore, whether full-time or part-time under any course program or activity operated by Emergency Training Associates, Inc. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION POLICY Emergency Training Associates, Inc. practices affirmative action in the admissions criteria, employment practices and program content of all its courses. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT POLICY Emergency Training Associates, Inc. will follow the guidelines and recommendations of the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians as it applies to Americans with Disabilities Act, Exam Accommodations and Disability Policy. At the first day of class, students will be provided a copy of the National Registry’s job description of EMT at the appropriate level, and will be required to sign a statement indicating that they have no conditions which would preclude them from safely and effectively performing the duties and functions of that level of EMT. The instructor shall inquire if there are students who may request accommodations for disabilities. Such students should speak privately with the instructor. If student requests accommodations, the instructor shall refer or advise the individual to contact the State EMS Office directly to assure a consistent approach to the application of appropriate accommodation policies. ETA will follow all recommendations of the State EMS Office. DATA PRIVACY (FERPA) Emergency Training Associates, Inc. complies with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act in regard to student records. Requests for information on past or present students will be accomplished by a release form signed by the student or by the parent/guardian if the student is less than 18 years of age. The request will indicate the purpose and provide signed permission to release specific types of information contained in a student’s record. 14 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM Students may obtain a personal transcript any time upon request to the Corporate Office. No one outside the corporation may obtain data regarding a student’s performance or attendance unless the student so authorizes in writing. CONFIDENTIALITY CONFIDENTIALITY IS MANDATORY! All students will be required to sign a Confidentiality Agreement. ETA has a legal and ethical responsibility to respect and protect the privacy rights of patients, employees, volunteers, medical staff, third parties and students. ALL information gathered during the ETA sponsored course and clinical rotation time is strictly confidential. Therefore it is imperative, as a condition of employment and or association with ETA that each individual be familiar with the confidentiality policy of the company. All patient, employee, medical staff, volunteer, student information is private and protected against unauthorized viewing, discussion or disclosure. This information is privileged and confidential regardless of format: electronic, written, verbal or observed The student may access, use, disclose, or copy information only as it relates to the performance of duties or as needed for the paramedic course. Any unauthorized use or disclosure of confidential information is a violation of ETA policy. If a complaint is received on a student, the complaint will be investigated by the Program Director, Program Coordinator, and Program Medical Director. If indicated, disciplinary action will be initiated up to and including dismissal from program, civil liability, and/or criminal charges. The student will immediately report any activity by any person, including themselves, that is in violation of this policy. FEE PAYMENT POLICY Fees must be paid in full by the registration deadline and/or start date. Persons not paying by the registration deadline and/or start date will be dropped. Anyone applying for independent financial aid and/or funding provided by an employer/agency, must also pay by the registration deadline/start date unless we have a purchase order or authorization letter from the agency that they will be funded. This notice must be received by the registration deadline. Students that are delinquent on tuition will not be allowed to participate in Hospital or Ambulance clinicals. Students will be allowed to continue with their clinical experience once their tuition is current and they are in good standing. 15 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM Students will not be allowed to take the National Registry CAT and Practical Exams unless, or until, their tuition is paid in full at the time of the exams. REFUND POLICY (per MN Stat. 141.271) – for Students attending in MN, or permanent resident of MN if attending in ND Each student will be notified of acceptance/rejection in writing. In the event a student is rejected, all tuition, fees, and other charges will be refunded. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, if a student gives written notice of cancellation within five business days of the execution of the contract or day on which the student is accepted, then a complete refund is given regardless of whether the program has started. If a student gives a written notice of cancellation after five business days of the execution of the contract or day on which the student is accepted, but before the start of the program by the school, then all tuition, fees and other charges, except 15 percent of the total cost of the program (15 percent not to exceed $50.00) shall be refunded to the student. If a student gives written notice of cancellation after the start of the period of instruction for which the student has been charged, but before completion of 75 percent of the period of instruction, then student is assessed a pro rata portion of tuition, fees and all other charges based on the number of days in the term plus 25 percent of the total program cost (25 percent not to exceed $100.00). Any notice of cancellation shall be acknowledged in writing within 10 business days of receipt of such notice and all refunds shall be forwarded to the student within 30 business days of receipt of such notice. This refund policy is not linked to any student conduct policy and any promissory instrument shall not be negotiated prior to the completion of 50 percent of the course. Written notice of cancellation shall take place on the date the letter of cancellation is postmarked or, in the case where the notice is hand carried, it shall occur on the date the notice is delivered to the school. The date of execution of the enrollment agreement shall be presumed to be the date of delivery of the notice of acceptance; and if delivered by mail, the postmark date of the letter of acceptance. Short-term programs: Licensed schools conducting programs not exceeding 40 hours in length shall not be required to make a full refund once a program has commenced and shall be allowed to prorate any refund based on the actual length of the program as stated in the school catalog or advertisements and the number of hours attended by the student. 16 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM REFUND POLICY (per ND Century Code 15-20.4-06) – for Students attending in ND and permanent resident of ND Each student will be notified of acceptance/rejection into the Paramedic Course in writing. If a student is rejected, all tuition, fees, and other charges will be refunded, less the application fee. If a student gives written notice of cancellation prior to, or within seven days after completion of the first day of class, refund will be granted on all tuition, fees, and other charges, less the registration fee. If a student gives written notice of cancellation within thirty days after completion of the first day of class, or prior to the completion of 25% of the total class, a penalty of 25% will be assessed plus the registration fee. If a student gives written notice of cancellation after completion of 25% of the total class, but before completion of 50%, a penalty of 50% will be assessed plus the registration fee. If notice is received after the completion of 50% of the total class, no tuition or other charges will be refunded. If ETA is forced to cancel a class for any reason, liability is limited to the return of the paid registration fee. Notice of cancellation shall be acknowledged in writing within 10 days of receipt of cancellation notice. Refund will be processed and forwarded to the student within 30 business days of receipt of cancellation notice. In the event that a veteran or a veteran’s beneficiary enrolls under the provisions of Title 38, US Code and/or Title 10, US Code and discontinues training before completion of the program, the school will retain ten dollars ($10) as a bona fide registration cost. All other advance payment of tuition, fees, and other charges, will be refunded to the trainee on a pro rata basis computed to the date of discontinuance of training. Refund policy is not linked to student conduct policies. Date of cancellation must be clarified. Date of acceptance must be clarified. Promissory instruments are not to be negotiated prior to completion of 50% of the course. 17 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM COURSE COMPLETION POLICY The completion policy at Emergency Training Associates, Inc. grants Certificates/Diplomas in accordance with the requirements listed below: 1. Minimum of 80% grade average on all course work 2. All coursework required for the program successfully completed according to criteria established by ETA. 3. FISDAP database reflects 100% completion on all clinical competencies. 4. ETA final written exam passed 5. ETA final practical exam is passed 6. OSPE exam passed with a minimum passing percentage as given with the cut raw scores in every topic area (2 attempts allowed). 7. All tuition/fees are paid in full. 8. Student has been granted course completion approval by program director. Upon completion of the above requirements, the student may go online and schedule the National Registry CAT test and locate a National Registry Practical Exam. Testing fees are to be paid by the student. CREDIT BY EXAMINATION A student may challenge parts of the Emergency Care Paramedic program through an Examination for Credit. The student obtains an Examination for Credit form at the corporate office and secures approval for such an examination from ETA personnel. The completed form is presented at the designated office. Students will be charged and examination fee of $185 per credit. A grade of P (Pass) or NP (No Pass) will be entered on the student’s academic record. No student may earn more than 56 hours required for their certificate through Credit by Examination. REPEATING COURSES Courses may be repeated no more than two times. When a course is repeated, the higher grade will be used. If a student does not complete any portion of the program, they will be allowed to re-enter the program at that point and will pay tuition for the portion(s) that are taken. 18 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM COURSE ATTENDANCE STANDARDS Students are expected to attend all classes. In case of absence, due to sickness or other justifiable cause, it is the responsibility of the student to notify the Program Director, Program Coordinator or the Instructor as soon as is feasibly possible. If a class is missed, the student will be required to make up the class at the discretion of the course instructor. Poor attendance may result in dismissal from course. Being tardy for class can be grounds for dismissal from the program. Being late or unprepared for class is disruptive and unfair to other members of the class. REMEMBER, you are being trained in a profession where punctuality is of the utmost importance. For a makeup class with an individual student, the cost of extra instructional time will be $35.00 per hour. GRADING POLICY ETA uses letter grades in all courses to measure student progress as follows: A = 100 – 95% B = 94 – 90% C = 89 – 85% D = 84 – 80% F = 79% or below P/NP = Pass/No Pass AD = Audit I = Incomplete CR = Test Out W = Withdraw R = Repeat A minimum passing grade, which is an average of 80% on all quizzes, exams and practical’s, must be maintained in all areas. If a student cannot meet the 80% competency in any given area of the Paramedic Program, the student will not receive a certificate of successful completion and will not be approved to take the National Registry Practical or CAT exam. One retest on all exams/quizzes will be allowed if grade is below 80%. If 80% is not reached on (3) consecutive quizzes/tests, the student will be dismissed from the program! Cardiology, ACLS, PALS and PHTLS are of major importance in the Paramedic program. If a student fails ACLS or PALS, they will be required to retake these programs. 19 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM If a student misses an exam or quiz, it is up to the student, at the instructor’s discretion/approval to make it up. If assignments are late, the grade will be lowered 5% per day until done. Any student cheating on quizzes, exams or course work will be dismissed from the program. Falsification of any Clinical Documentation will result in immediate dismissal from the program. CLINICAL ROTATIONS Proof of immunizations must be on file with ETA before student is permitted to start clinical rotations. Students must provide immunization record for Measles, mumps, and rubella, or if born after 1/1/51, have proof of a rubella immunization or titer. Students must have a negative mantoux or chest x-ray within the past 12 months. Some clinical affiliates require a two-step mantoux (2 mantoux tests within 14 days of each other). Students that are delinquent on tuition will not be allowed to participate in Hospital or Ambulance clinicals. Students will be allowed to continue with their clinical experience once their tuition is current and they are in good standing. No medications, caffeine pills, energy drinks, etc. will be allowed in any Psychiatric Unit clinical area. Breach of this policy will be brought to the attention of the Advisory Committee and could result in dismissal from the program. Students are not to wear cologne or perfume while at clinicals. This is a requirement of the Clinical Affiliates and is made due to allergies. Students will not be allowed to schedule more than 24 consecutive hours for any ambulance clinical, unless specifically approved by the Program Director, Program Coordinator, and Clinical Coordinator. NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS POLICY! Ultimately, patient care and treatment is up to the paramedics, physicians, or nurses directly involved with the patients you will come into contact with. Clinical rotations must be completed within four (4) months after the classroom portion of the course is complete. 20 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM CLINICAL ATTENDANCE REMEMBER, you are being trained in a profession where punctuality is of the utmost importance. A student must contact the Clinical Coordinator to schedule any and all clinicals and will only be scheduled at existing current clinical affiliate sites. If the student is an employee of the ambulance service and they happen to be around when a call comes in, they CANNOT just jump on the ambulance and be a student. ALL clinicals must be sanctioned and scheduled through, and by, ETA. A breach of this policy can lead to dismissal from the program. If a student requests that a new clinical affiliate be added as a possible clinical site, it will be up to the discretion of ETA’s management team and advisory committee whether to pursue as an affiliate site. If it is determined by the team or committee to add a clinical affiliate, the process can take several months before they will officially be added as a site. Students will not be allowed to miss a scheduled clinical unless it is an emergency. ALL absences must be approved by the Clinical Coordinator. In the case of a clinical absence, the following policy will apply: A. One no-show, without prior notification to Clinical Coordinator and clinical site, student will be notified by certified letter with signature required. B. Two no-shows, without prior notification to Clinical Coordinator and clinical site, student will be subject to suspension, with length of suspension to be determined by Education Committee, or possible expulsion from the Paramedic Program. Any changes in scheduled clinicals must be made at least seven days in advance of the scheduled clinical date. CLINICAL COMPETENCIES When a student arrives at a clinical location, either ambulance or hospital, it is up to the student to talk to the crew or staff members. Objectives should be filled out on the FISDAP forms and the student should communicate them to the preceptor(s) prior to the start of the clinical shift. The student needs to communicate to the preceptor(s) where he/she is at in the course and what they are allowed to do, as verified by the Skills Verification sheet and/or clinical phase forms. Ultimately, patient care and treatment is up to the Paramedics, Physicians, or nurses directly involved with the patients the student will come into contact with. 21 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM All clinicals must be entered into FISDAP database and the Student Evaluation Report submitted to the Clinical Coordinator within 7days of the completion of the clinical or they will not be counted – NO Exceptions will be made! All preceptor evaluations need to be signed by the preceptor by the end of each clinical. Only if the student is a third person on the ambulance, will patient contacts and assessments be counted as a team leader. The student will need to handle patient care from the time the call starts, patient care is given throughout the call until the patient is turned over to hospital staff, and the hand-off report is complete. When a paramedic student is working on shift with a paramedic, the student CANNOT perform any skills or treatments outside of the EMT’s Scope of Practice and must follow the policies of the ambulance service where they are employed. Only when the student is doing a clinical and is the third person on the crew can paramedic clinical skills be done and counted. A breach of this policy can lead to dismissal from the Paramedic Program. When doing a field clinical, the student does NOT complete the ambulance run sheet that is given to the hospital – this is the responsibility of the Paramedic. All student documentation for each run is to be completed on the Field Internship Patient Care Report. Ringdahl employees shall not be given preference in scheduling ride along shifts for the purpose of completing skills related to EMT-Paramedic training. Student to patient contact is at the discretion of the primary paramedic on call. The ETA education staff will assign a ranking to each student based upon a score derived from the compilation of clinical evaluations, test scores and class attendance at quarterly meetings with ETA students. Student rankings may change from quarter to quarter based upon student performance. Clinical availability will be offered to the highest ranked student then the second and so on until all shifts are filled or the clinical component is completed. No medications, caffeine pills, energy drinks, etc. will be allowed in any Psychiatric Unit clinical area! Breach of this policy will be brought to the attention of the Advisory Committee and could result in dismissal from the program. Students will not be allowed to schedule more than 24 hours for any Ambulance clinical, unless specifically approved by the Program Director, Program Coordinator and Clinical Coordinator. No exceptions to this policy! 22 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM When a student has completed the classroom and clinical portion of the Paramedic Program and is waiting to test or is in the testing process, the student can no longer do ALS Paramedic Skills while working or riding along in the ambulance. The student will need to function in their BLS Scope of Practice! There will be no exceptions to this policy! If there is a breach in this policy, it will lead to disciplinary action and possible termination from the Paramedic Program. INCOMPLETE GRADES An incomplete (I) grade must be removed by completing course requirements within the first two (2) instructional days of the next section of regular program offerings. Incomplete’s not removed will be changed to an “F”. FAILURE TO PASS When a student fails to pass - 1) Course Written exam (after 3 attempts); 2) Course Practical Exam (after 3 attempts); OR 3) OSPE exam (after 2 attempts); they will be required to complete a 48 hour Paramedic Refresher course. If administered by ETA, it will be at a cost of $740 per student. The final exam for the Paramedic program will not be administered to any student who has not successfully completed any area of the program. PROGRESS EVALUATION Those students who are not progressing satisfactorily in the following areas shall receive a Deficiency notice. Deficiency notices will be issued for: 1. Incomplete grades in a class or classes 2. Failing grades in a class or classes 3. Attendance problems 4. Other problems affecting course progress The student will receive a copy of the Deficiency Notice with action to be taken specified on the form. Students will be scheduled for a review unless there are exceptional circumstances that warrant an alternate plan. Deficiency Notices must be completed and copies turned in to the Education Coordinator. The student will be scheduled for the review within two weeks of the notice, unless other action is specified by the instructor. DRESS CODE All students shall dress in good taste as indicated by the guidelines and regulations set up by each individual instructor when attending class and labs. 23 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM When participating in clinical experiences, all students will arrive in student uniform with student photo ID. Students may be required to change into other required attire (ie: scrubs at hospital clinicals) upon arrival to some clinical affiliate sites. The student uniform consists of: 1. Blue student uniform shirt 2. Navy blue uniform pants (no jeans or denim material allowed) 3. Black uniform belt 4. Navy blue or black socks 5. Black uniform style boots with black shoe laces STUDENT IDENTIFICATION (NAME TAG) Emergency Training Associates provides each student with a picture identification tag that states the student’s first name, last initial, and student level (ie: Paramedic Student). This ID must be worn at all clinicals. GROOMING AND OTHER DRESS ISSUES 1. Hair will be off the collar in back (men & women), plain clasp or hair clips only 2. Men will be clean shaven, beards and mustaches neatly trimmed 3. No perfume or cologne 4. No excessive cosmetics 5. No jewelry except watch with second hand, and engagement or wedding rings, no earrings, no visible body piercing 6. No caps 7. Students must be clean, free of body odor or offensive breath EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES 1. Stethoscope 2. Watch with second hand 3. Trauma Shears 4. Black ink pen 5. Pen light 6. Protective eye wear 7. Clinical forms 8. Note pad Students arriving for clinical or field rotations inappropriately attired, poorly groomed, or without necessary equipment, will be sent home and will not be allowed to attend any further rotations until counseled by the Program Director and/or Program Coordinator. 24 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM TOBACCO POLICY Use of tobacco products at each training site, if allowed, is permitted only in approved or designated areas. HEALTH INSURANCE Students are encouraged to carry some type of health coverage while enrolled in ETA courses. ETA DOES NOT HAVE A BLANKET HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE POLICY. MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LIABILITY COVERAGE Those students enrolling in the Emergency Training Associates, Inc. Paramedic course are covered by the medical malpractice liability coverage provided by Emergency Training Associates. STUDENT CONDUCT CODE No cell phones will be allowed in class or at any clinical sites. If a student has a cell phone, it must be turned off and be placed out of sight. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS! ETA upholds all federal, state and local laws and regulations and considers violation of these on training site property or at any class held off-site as cause for disciplinary action. The following code of behavior is relative to conduct on training site property and at all offsite sponsored activities. ETA will not initiate disciplinary proceedings against students for violation of law which occurs off training site property unless that nature of the violation is such as to indicate that the continued attendance of the offender represents a threat to the safety and well-being of other members of the training program. The following types of conduct are defined as unacceptable and violators shall be subject to disciplinary action. For serious infractions ETA reserves the right to dismiss a student: 1. The possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages on training site property. 2. The possession, sale, use or distribution of any narcotic drug, marijuana, or other addictive, hallucinogenic or other mood modifying substances. 3. Gambling 4. Theft or damage to public or private property. 5. Any conduct which is lewd, indecent, or obscene, including the use of profane or abusive language. 6. Failure to meet financial obligations or writing bad checks relative to course transactions. 7. Furnishing false and misleading information to training records. 8. Possession or use of firearms, explosives, dangerous chemicals or other weapons. 9. Failure to comply with directions of ETA personnel acting in the performance of their duties. 25 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM 10. Assaulting, threatening, harassing, or endangering in any manner, the health or safety of any person. 11. Interference with the orderly operation of classes by breach of the peace, physical obstruction or coercion, or by noise, tumult, or other forms of disturbance. The Instructor/ETA personnel shall be responsible for handling all appropriate details involved in student conduct. Reports of incidents involving student conduct, procedures for handling disciplinary cases and the results of conduct hearing shall be maintained in ETA office. Pending action on the charges, the status of such students will not be changed or their right to be present at the training site and to attend classes suspended, except for reasons relating to their physical or emotional safety and well-being, or that of the training program as determined by the President. Students will have imposed upon them for violations of this section, disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the course. In addition, students who violate the standards of conduct will be referred to prosecution consistent with local, state and federal laws. SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PROCEDURES Safety and the prevention of accidents is the responsibility of the instructor. In all cases, the instructor must provide instruction in the safe use of equipment and supply adequate supervision for students particularly while doing hazardous tasks. It is suggested that a test on safety procedures or a form on which student signs that he/she understands the safety practices which apply to your class be utilized. Examples of these materials are available from the coordinator. Each instructor must maintain a record of the dates that safety instructions were given. It is not sufficient to simply know that such instruction was given. In the event an accident does occur, the instructor must contact the corporate office and report the incident in writing. Utilize the following procedures as they apply to a particular accident: 1. Seek medical attention immediately for injured person 2. Do necessary first aid 3. Call an ambulance - if necessary 4. If there is no need for an ambulance, but the student needs emergency treatment, they may go by taxi or call someone else. In no case, should a teacher be allowed to transport the student to the hospital 5. Notify the President and fill out an Accident report as soon as possible 26 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM ACCIDENT REPORTING PROCEDURE All accidents must be reported in writing on the Accident Report form. This form must be completed by the instructor and the President and submitted to the corporate insurance office within 24 hours of the incident. Remain attentive to details concerning accident and note the time, location and conditions surrounding the accident. a. Specific location of accident b. Physical condition of area 1. Lighting 2. Foreign objects involved 3. Equipment – condition, settings, location 4. Materials being used – (Save) After the accident, find out what witnesses said about the event and take time to make up some comprehensive notes about your recollections and those of specific witnesses. Show concern and interest in the welfare of the injured student and family but refrain from stating opinion or judgments concerning the accident. Do not discuss or provide information to anyone until it is cleared through the Corporate Office. STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES WITH AIDS AND CERTAIN OTHER COMMUNICABLE DISEASES Public concern that students be able to attend the training of ETA without being infected with serious communicable diseases, such as Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), and HSV related diseases such as Chickenpox, Shingles, and Infectious Mononucleosis requires that the Board of Directors adopt procedures effectively responding to the health concerns while respecting the rights of all students and employees, including those who are so infected. I. Students It is the policy of the Board of Directors that students with communicable diseases be allowed to attend class in their regular classrooms so long as their attendance does not create a substantial risk of the transmission of illness to other students or employees of the corporation. A procedure for minimizing interruptions to leaning resulting from communicable diseases will be established by Management in consultation with community health and private health care providers. Procedures for the inclusion or exclusion of students with communicable diseases from classes will consider the educational implications for the student and others with whom he or she comes into contact, recommendations from the county public health agency, the Minnesota Department of 27 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM Education, the North Dakota Department of Health and the United States Public Health Services Centers for Disease Control. II. Employees It is the policy of the Board of Directors that employees with communicable diseases be allowed to attend to their customary employment so long as they are physically able to perform tasks assigned to them and so long as their attendance does not create a substantial risk of the transmission of illness to students or other employees of the corporation. III. Special Circumstances and Conditions The Board of Directors recognizes that some students, because of age and handicapping conditions, and some employees, because of special conditions, may pose greater risks for the transmission of communicable diseases than other persons infected with the same illness. Examples include children who display biting behavior and students and employees who are unable to control their bodily fluids or have uncovered oozing wounds. These conditions need to be taken into account and considered in assessing the risk of transmission of the disease and the resulting effect upon the educational program of the student or employment of the employee. PROCEDURE: The following procedure for implementing the policy is based upon guidelines of the Minnesota Department of Education and recommendations of the Center for Disease Control of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. In all cases in which ETA becomes aware that a student or employee has contracted one of the diseased listed in the policy, ETA will take the following steps. A. The parent(s) or guardian of the student, or in the case of an adult student or an employee, the adult student, the employee or the family, will be contacted in order to discuss the situation and determine whatever facts are available. B. Upon receiving written consent from the parent(s) or guardian of a student or, in the case of an adult student or employee, the adult student, the employee or the family, ETA will confer with the treating physician, if any, in order to determine any significant medical facts concerning the diagnosis of the disease or factors affecting the possible transmission of the disease. C. Advise local, county and state public health authorities of the situation. D. Where the age of a student, or other condition, such as biting behavior or, in the case of either an employee or a student, the lack of control of bodily fluids, or the existence of uncovered oozing wounds or other medically identifiable factors increases the risk of transmission. The Minnesota Commissioner of Health is to be contacted and requested to convene an Advisory Committee to review the case and to provide recommendations regarding educational placement for a student or 28 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM continued attendance at work for an employee. Such Advisory Committee is to include, wherever possible, and if necessary, the following members: The State Epidemiologist Minnesota Department of Education Representative or Physician with expertise in infectious diseases Physician with expertise in care of patients with the above-listed disease President of ETA Primary teacher in the case of a student Hygiene Practices Good hygiene practices as recommended by local, county and state health authorities are to be followed at all times when handling blood or other bodily fluids of any student or employee. Teachers and other employees who may be expected to have contact with a student or employee under circumstances giving rise to a risk of transmission of a serious illness will be informed about the condition of the student or fellow employee, instructed regarding the possible modes of transmission of the disease and provided any special supplies, such as disposable gloves, which medical advisors deem to be appropriate. Data Privacy Concerns Public concern regarding communicable diseases is neither an excuse nor defense for the violation of data privacy rights of students or employees who have or are rumored to have such illnesses. A. Health data regarding students is private data (Minn. Stat. 13.32, Subd. 2) and is not to be disseminated to the public or to staff without the strict observance of data privacy rights. Knowledge that a student has a communicable disease will be limited to those persons determined by ETA to have a direct need to know. B. Health data regarding employees is private data (Minn. Stat. 13.43, Subd. 2) and may not be released to the public or to fellow employees without strict observance of data privacy rights of public employees (Minn. Stat. 13.43). Knowledge that an employee has a communicable disease will be limited to those persons determined by the President to have a direct need to know. C. ETA recognizes that the improper and unauthorized release of health information regarding a student or employee suffering from an infectious disease has the potential of doing irremediable harm. 29 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM Staff and Student Education The Board of Directors recognizes that the education of its staff and students, regarding the risks involved in the spread of infectious diseases in the class setting, will help to minimize the risk of transmission to other students and employees while protecting the rights of infected students and employees. All employees will receive instruction regarding this policy, appropriate hygienic practices for use in all classroom settings, precautions to be employed where contagious diseases may be encountered and community resources for referral and information. SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which violates Section 703 of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 2000e, et seq., and Minn. Stat. 363301- 14, the Minnesota Human Rights Act. It is the policy of ETA to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from sexual harassment. The corporation prohibits any form of sexual harassment. It shall be a violation of this policy for any student or employee of ETA to harass a student or an employee through conduct or communication of a sexual nature as defined by this policy. The Board of Directors will act to investigate all complaints, formal or informal, verbal or written, of sexual harassment and to discipline any student or employee who sexually harasses a student or employee of ETA. SEXUAL HARASSMENT DEFINED Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature when (1) submission to that conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, of obtaining or retaining employment, or of obtaining an education; or (2) submission to or rejection of that conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting that individual’s employment or education; or (3) that conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s employment or education, or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive employment or education environment. Any sexual harassment as defined when perpetrated on any student or employee by and student or employee will be treated as sexual harassment under this policy. 30 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM Sexual harassment may include but is not limited to: (1) verbal harassment or abuse; (2) subtle pressure for sexual activity; (3) inappropriate patting or pinching; (4) intentional brushing against a student's or an employee's body; (5) demanding sexual favors accompanied by implied or overt threats concerning an individual's employment or educational status; (6) demanding preferential treatment with regard to an individual's employment or educational status; or (7) any sexually motivated unwelcome touching. REPORTING PROCEDURES Any person who believes he or she has been the victim of sexual harassment by a student or an employee of ETA, or any third person with knowledge or belief of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment should report the alleged acts immediately to an appropriate ETA official as designated by this policy. ETA encourages the reporting party or complainant to use the report form available from the corporate office. The President is responsible for receiving oral or written reports of sexual harassment. Upon receipt of a report, the designated person(s) must notify the ETA Human Rights Officer immediately without screening or investigating the report. A written report will be forwarded simultaneously to the Human Rights Officer. Failure to forward any sexual harassment report or complaint as provided herein will result in disciplinary action. If the complaint involves the designated receiving person, the complaint shall be filed directly with the ETA Human Rights Officer. The Board of Directors has designated the ETA Human Rights Officer to receive reports or complaints of sexual harassment from any individual, employee or victim of sexual harassment. If the complaint involves the Human Rights Officer, the complaint shall be filed directly with the alternate designee. ETA shall conspicuously post the name of the Human Rights Officer including a mailing address and telephone number. If the ETA President is the subject of the complaint, the report shall be submitted to the alternate individual as designated by the Board of Directors. Submission of a complaint or report of sexual harassment will not affect the individual's future employment, grades or work assignments. Use of formal reporting forms is not mandatory. ETA will respect the confidentiality of the complainant and the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed as much as possible, consistent with ETA's legal obligations and the necessity to investigate allegations of harassment and take disciplinary action when the conduct has occurred. 31 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM INVESTIGATION AND RECOMMENDATION By the authority of the Board of Directors, the Human Rights Officer, upon receipt of a report or complaint alleging sexual harassment, shall immediately authorize an investigation. (1) This investigation may be conducted by ETA officials (2) or by a third party designated by the Board. The investigating part shall provide a written report of the status of the investigation within 10 working days to the ETA President. In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, the investigator should consider the surrounding circumstances, the nature of the sexual advances, relationships between the parties involved and the context in which the alleged incidents occurred. Whether a particular action or incident constitutes sexual harassment requires a determination based on all the facts and surround circumstances. The investigation may consist of personal interviews with the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident(s) or circumstances giving rise to the complaint. The investigation may also consist of any other methods and documents deemed pertinent by the investigator. BOARD ACTION Upon receipt of a recommendation that the complaint is valid, the Board of Directors will take such action as appropriate based on the results of the investigation. The results of the investigation of each complaint filed under these procedures will be reported in writing to the complainant by the Board of Directors. The report will document any disciplinary action taken as a result of the complaint. Any Board of Directors action taken pursuant to this policy will be consistent with Minnesota Statute and ETA policies. The Board of Directors will take such disciplinary action it deems necessary and appropriate, including warning, suspension or immediate discharge to end sexual harassment and prevent its recurrence. REPRISAL The Board of Directors will discipline any individual who retaliates against any person who reports alleged sexual harassment or who retaliates against any person who testifies, assists or participates in an investigation, proceeding or hearing relating to a sexual harassment complaint. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment. 32 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM RIGHT TO ALTERNATIVE COMPLAINT PROCEDURE These procedures do not deny the right of any individual to pursue other avenues of recourse which may include filing charges with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, initiating civil action or seeking redress under state criminal statute and/or federal law. SEXUAL HARASSMENT AS SEXUAL ABUSE Under certain circumstances, sexual harassment may constitute sexual abuse under Minnesota Statute 609.341, subd. 10 through 609.345; Minnesota Statute 609.321 through 324; or Minnesota Statute 617.246. In such situations, ETA shall comply with Minnesota Statute 626.556, Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors. Nothing in this policy will prohibit ETA from taking immediate action to protect victims of alleged sexual abuse. Legal References: Section 703 of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended Minnesota Statute 363.01-14, the Minnesota Human Rights Act. COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES A complaint or grievance exists when an enrolled student is dissatisfied with a decision or an aspect of their college experience over which the student has not control and on which remedial action is desired. A grievance may also include an apparent violation of equal opportunity laws, regulations, fair grading practices or behavioral concerns. If a student feels unfairly treated, or has a complaint, the student shall first discuss the issue with the instructor or with the person where the perceived unfair treatment occurred. It may be a case of misunderstanding which can be resolved by thorough discussion. RESOLVING STUDENT COMPLAINTS OR GRIEVANCES Initially, the student, or complainant, who is considering submitting a complaint or grievance, should attempt to resolve the concern directly with the instructor or student. If the complainant is not satisfied, or is unwilling to address the issue at the individual or instructor level, the complainant should contact the Program Coordinator. The Program Coordinator may be able to provide assistance in resolving the issue in an informal manner at the individual level. If informal resolution is not successful or is deemed unrealistic, the Program Coordinator will inform the complainant of the formal grievance process. As requested by the student, the Program Coordinator will provide the complainant with information needed to initiate and complete this process. 33 EMERGENCY TRAINING ASSOCIATES PARAMEDIC PROGRAM FILING A STUDENT GRIEVANCE Students wishing to file a formal grievance shall do so to the Program Director by submitting the grievance in writing using the student complaint form, or other document approved by the Program Director. The grievance shall be submitted within five working days of the Program Coordinator’s determination that informal resolution is not possible. The Program Director, either alone or in consultation with instructors, staff, or students, will initiate the resolution process by investigating the complaint. An alternate resolution or decision will be reached by the Program Director within ten working days of receipt of the grievance and communicated to the complainant in writing. If there is no appeal, the decision of the Program Director is final. FILING AN APPEAL If the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution or decision, a written appeal may be submitted to the Vice President within five working days of the Program Director’s decision. The appeal must reasonably establish that: 1. the established procedures were not properly followed; or 2. an adequate opportunity to present evidence was not allowed; or 3. the evidence was not substantial enough to justify the decision or resolution. The Vice President shall assemble a student grievance committee within ten working days of receipt of the written appeal. The student grievance committee shall be composed of two students, two instructors, and the Vice President. A prejudiced member may be removed or may voluntarily withdraw from the committee if the situation warrants such action. The Vice President shall inform the complainant and student grievance committee of the specific time and place of the meeting. The committee shall review the written appeal provided by the complainant and the record made by the Program Director, and reach a decision based upon these documents. The committee may, in its sole discretion, receive additional testimony or other evidence and make that information part of its record. Upon reaching a decision, the Vice President shall, if possible, orally communicate the committee’s decision to the student followed by a written statement within two days. If there is no appeal, the decision of the student grievance committee is final. The complainant may appeal the decision within ten working days to the President. All students have the right to present grievances in accordance to the steps outlined in this policy and are assured freedom from discrimination, coercion, restraint or reprisal in presenting grievances. All references to working days shall be actual days that school offices are open. 34
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