Department of
Allied Health

Respiratory Care Student Handbook

Revised 8/2013

Associate of Science Degree Program, Respiratory Care Major
for Advanced Level Practitioners

Academic Advisors
Christine Harancher, MS, RRT
Respiratory Care Program Director
206 Montgomery Hall
Phone: 814-393-1253
Fax: 814-676-0215
charancher@clarion.edu
Michelle Moore, BS, RRT, NPS
Respiratory Care Director of Clinical Education
202 Montgomery Hall
Phone: 814-393-1267
Fax: 814-676-0215
mmoore@clarion.edu

Students should contact their advisor for office hours

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Table of Contents
Introductory Information ................................................................................................ 6
About the Student Handbook ...................................................................................... 6
Accessing the Respiratory Care Student Handbook.................................................... 6
Clarion University Names and Contact Information ................................................... 7
Clinical Site Contact Information................................................................................ 8
Clarion University Mission & Vision ....................................................................... 11
General Information ....................................................................................................... 12
Associate of Science, Respiratory Care Program Overview ..................................... 12
Program Goals and Objectives .................................................................................. 12
Institutional Accreditation ......................................................................................... 12
Programmatic Accreditation...................................................................................... 12
Equal Education Opportunity Statement ................................................................... 13
Office of Judicial and Mediation Services ................................................................ 13
Resolution of Disputes Related to the Respiratory Care Program ............................ 13
Confidentiality of Students Records and the Family................................................. 13
Campus Safety and Eagle Alerts System .................................................................. 14
Other Handbook/Resources/References .................................................................... 15
Center for Academic Achievement ........................................................................... 16
Venango College Learning Support Center .............................................................. 16
Personal Counseling .................................................................................................. 16
Career Services .......................................................................................................... 16
Clarion Student Email Accounts and Listserv .......................................................... 16
Academic Policies ............................................................................................................ 18
Student Responsibility for Academic Requirements................................................. 18
Handbooks and Clinical Affiliate Policies and Procedures ....................................... 18
Admission Policy ...................................................................................................... 18
Suggested Possible Prerequisites............................................................................... 19
Respiratory Care Program Pre-Clinical Requirements ............................................. 19
Completion of Coursework ....................................................................................... 19
Transfer Students, Advanced Standing, and Prior Work Experience ....................... 19
Criminal Background Clearances and NBRC/Licensure .......................................... 21
Admission Information for Current/Former Clarion Students .................................. 21
Pre-Respiratory Care Major Status............................................................................ 22
Required Courses and Minimum Grades .................................................................. 22
How to Address Program Faculty and Personnel ...................................................... 22
Clarion University Class Cancellation Notification .................................................. 22
Semester Breaks and Vacations ................................................................................ 23
Content of Course Syllabi ......................................................................................... 23
Requirements for Graduation .................................................................................... 23
Withdrawal from Program......................................................................................... 24
Appeals and Grievances ............................................................................................ 24

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Retention/Progression Requirements ........................................................................ 25
Student Academic and Clinical Support for Success/Remediation........................... 25
Dismissal from program ............................................................................................ 26
Readmission to Program ........................................................................................... 28
University Withdrawal, Probation, Suspension, and Dismissal ................................ 29
Tuition, Fees, and Other Program Costs ................................................................... 30
General Advising Information ....................................................................................... 31
General Advising Information ................................................................................... 31
Advisor/Advisee Roles and Responsibilities ............................................................. 32
Frequently Asked Registration Questions and Course Registration .......................... 32
Clinical Policies, Procedures, and Information ............................................................ 37
Scope of Practice, Ethics, Conduct, Diversity and Tolerance .................................... 37
AARC Statement of Respiratory Care Scope of Practice .......................................... 37
AARC Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct .............................................. 38
AARC Statement on Cultural Diversity ..................................................................... 38
Privacy and Confidentiality of Patient Information ................................................... 39
Technical Standards ................................................................................................... 39
Pre-Clinical Requirements ......................................................................................... 43
Physical Examination ................................................................................................. 44
Student Travel and Transportation ............................................................................. 45
Health Care Insurance and Health Care Expenses ..................................................... 45
Clinical Assignments.................................................................................................. 45
Orientation to Clinical Site Policy/Procedure Manuals ............................................. 45
Personal Appearance, Uniform, and Dress Code Policies ......................................... 46
Addressing Clinical Personnel and Patients ............................................................... 47
Cell Phones, Wireless Devices, and Electronic Devices ............................................ 47
Student Objectives for Professional Behavior ........................................................... 48
Affective Criteria........................................................................................................ 49
Misconduct, Negligent Behavior and Resultant
Dismissal from Clinical Site and/or Program ............................................... 50
Clinical Site Policies and Property ............................................................................. 50
Clinical Documentation.............................................................................................. 51
Clinical Attendance/Tardiness ................................................................................... 51
Bereavement ............................................................................................................... 52
Missed Clinical Time ................................................................................................. 53
Inclement Weather and Clinical Assignments ........................................................... 53
Absence of Clinical Preceptor ................................................................................... 54
Effective Use of Clinical Downtime ......................................................................... 54
Physician Interaction Policy ...................................................................................... 54
Clinical Safety Procedures ........................................................................................ 55
Blood borne pathogen precautions ............................................................................ 55
Standard Precautions ................................................................................................. 56
Incident Protocol ....................................................................................................... 58
Clinical Evaluation Process ....................................................................................... 59
Student Substitution for Paid Staff ............................................................................ 60
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Breaks and Meals ...................................................................................................... 60
Parking....................................................................................................................... 61
Clinical Site Safety and Emergency Response Plans ................................................ 61
Gratuities ................................................................................................................... 62
Conduct at External Events ....................................................................................... 62
Employment at Clinical Settings ............................................................................... 62
Appendix A, Respiratory Care Student Handbook Acknowledgment Form ............ 63
Appendix B, Respiratory Care Program Curriculum Plan ........................................ 64
Appendix C, Estimated Program Costs ..................................................................... 65
Appendix D, Clinical Site Student Orientation Acknowledgment Form .................. 66
Appendix E, Clinical Evaluation Form ..................................................................... 67
Appendix F, Incident Report Form ........................................................................... 69

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About the Respiratory Care Student Handbook
The purpose of this handbook is to provide Clarion University respiratory care majors
with information about general information and policies specific to the Associate of
Science Degree, Respiratory Care. Respiratory care majors are held accountable for
abiding by all policies and procedures of Clarion University as identified in this and other
program-specific handbooks, the Undergraduate Catalog, the Student Rights,
Regulations, and Procedures Handbook and other handbooks issued by Clarion
University pertinent to the student such as Residence Hall Handbooks. Students
attending clinical sites maintain their full Clarion University status and are therefore
required to abide by all Clarion University policies and procedures although they may not
physically be on university grounds.
Additionally, students are held accountable for abiding by all policies and procedures of
affiliating clinical sites that they attend, as identified in handbooks, manuals, policies and
procedures specific to each site.
Policies in this handbook are subject to revision. Students will be informed of any
changes, additions, or deletions to the information contained in this handbook via their
Clarion student email account and/or the respiratory care listserv.
Accessing the Respiratory Care Student Handbook
An electronic copy of the Respiratory Care Student Handbook may be found on the
Student Handbook tab of the respiratory care web page. Students are informed about
how to access the electronic version of the Respiratory Care Student Handbook prior to
the beginning of classes of the freshman year. All respiratory care and pre-respiratory
care majors are responsible for knowing the content of the Respiratory Care Student
Handbook.
Students are strongly encouraged to read the entire handbook prior to the start of the fall
semester – particularly sections in the handbook entitled, “About the Student Handbook,
General Information, Academic Policies, and General Advising.” Students must read the
handbook in its entirety prior to the start of the spring semester of the freshman year.
Students are required to print and sign an acknowledgement form (Appendix A)
indicating that they have read the handbook. They must then submit this form to the
Director of Clinical Education on the first day of class of the spring semester of the
freshman year.

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Clarion University Contact Information
Venango College of Clarion University
1801 West First Street
Oil City, PA 16031
1-877-VENANGO, www.clarion.edu/239/
Christopher Reber, PhD
Executive Dean, Venango College
200 Frame Administration Building
814-676-6591, extension 1207, creber@clarion.edu
Shelly Moore, PhD, RN, CNE
Interim Director, School of Nursing and Allied Health
220 Montgomery Hall
Phone: 814-393-1258, Fax: 814-676-0251, smoore@clarion.edu
Renee Bloom, MS, RT(R)
Assistant Professor
Chair, Department of Allied Health
204 Montgomery Hall
Phone: 814-393-1255, Fax: 814-676-0251, rbloom@clarion.edu
Christine Harancher, MS, RRT
Respiratory Care Program Director
206 Montgomery Hall
Phone: 814-393-1253, Fax: 814-676-0251, charancher@clarion.edu
Michelle Moore, BS, RRT, NPS
Respiratory Care Director of Clinical Education
202 Montgomery Hall
Phone: 814-393-1257, Fax: 814-676-0251, mmoore@lcarion.edu
Patricia Shontz
Medical Imaging, ASAH Leadership program secretary
218 Montgomery Hall
Phone: 814-393-1251, Fax: 814-676-0251, pshontz@clarion.edu
Debra Weaver
Respiratory Care secretary
218 Montgomery Hall
Phone: 814-393-1250, Fax: 814-676-0251, dweaver@clarion.edu

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Clinical Site Contact Information
The health care organizations listed below currently serve as clinical sites and specialty
rotation sites for respiratory care students: Clinical sites and specialty rotation sites are
subject to change.
ACMH Hospital
1 Nolte Dr
Kittanning, PA 16201
(724) 543-8500
Contact information: Lisa Hawley, (724) 543-8807
To call off: (724) 543-8500 and have RT paged overhead
Butler Memorial Hospital
911 Brady St
Butler, PA 16001
(724) 283-6666
Contact information: Dick Falen, Supervisor Respiratory Care Services, (724) 284-4203
or Kerri Herold, clinical preceptor, (724) 284-4204
Clarion Hospital
1 Hospital Dr
Clarion, PA 16214
(814) 226-9500
Contact information: Joan Kriebel, (814) 226-1665, JoanKriebel@ClarionHospital.org
DuBois Regional Medical Center
100 Hospital Ave
DuBois, PA 15801
(814) 371-2200
Contact information: Scott Solnosky, Supervisor Respiratory Care Services
(814) 375-3522, Sasolosky@drmc.org
(814) 375-3441 (depart. Lounge phone)
Geisinger Medical Center
100 N. Academy Drive
Danville, PA 17822
(570) 271-6211
Contact information: Kelly Cresci, RRT-NPS, RCP
Team Leader, Respiratory Care Services
570.214.9408, Pager# 3372

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Grove City Medical Center
631 N Broad St Ext
Grove City, PA 16127
(724) 450-7000
Contact information: Karen Rogers, (724) 450- 7188
Heritage Valley Beaver
1000 Dutch Ridge Road
Beaver, PA 15009
Contact Information: Jane Bufalini, 724-773-8396, jbufalini@hvhs.org
Heritage Valley – Sewickly
720 Blackburn Road
Sewickley, PA 15143
Contact Information: Jane Bufalini, 412-749-7347, jbufalini@hvhs.org.
Meadville Medical Center
1034 Grove St
Meadville, PA 16335
(814) 333-5000
Contact information: Amy Weston, Manager Resp Care and Sleep Services (814) 3335152, aweston@mmchs.org, (814) 333-5151 (RC Dept.)
Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital
11100 Euclid Ave, Mail stop 5005
Cleveland, OH 44106-5005
(216) 844-8447
Contact information: Nancy Johnson, Education Coordinator, (216) 844-0189, or pager #
37220
UPMC Horizon: Greenville
110 North Main St
Greenville, PA 16125
(724) 588-2100
UPMC Horizon: Shenango Valley
2200 Memorial Dr
Farrell, PA 16121
(724) 981-3500
Contact information: Greenville- Linda Myers (724)589-6279, Shenango Valley- (724)
983-7532

9

UPMC Northwest
100 Fairfield Dr
Seneca, PA
(814) 676-7600
Contact information: Pete Calenda- Manager calendap@upmc.edu or Aaron Rosen –
Preceptor, rosenab@upmc.edu
UPMC Passavant
9100 Babcock Blvd
Pittsburgh, PA 15237-5842
(412) 367-6700
Contact information: Linda Bryner, Director, (412) 367-5428, brynerlm@ph.upmc.edu
UPMC Mercy
1400 Locust Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 232-8111
Contact information: Tony Liscotti, 412-232-8248, liscottia@upmc.edu
Vantage Home Medical Equipment and Services
1904 Park Avenue Plaza (near Dunham’s Sporting Goods)
Meadville, PA 16335
(877) 593-6328
Contact information: Lisa Hershelman, (800) 548-5463 x2162, lisaher@vhcn.com

.

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Mission/Vision/Values
Mission of Clarion University of Pennsylvania
Clarion University provides transformative, lifelong learning opportunities through
innovative, nationally recognized programs delivered in inclusive, student-centered
environments.
Approved by the Council of Trustees, Clarion University, February 16, 2012
Vision of Clarion University of Pennsylvania
Clarion University will be a leader in high-impact educational practices that benefit
students, employers, and community partners.
Approved by the Council of Trustees, Clarion University, February 16, 2012
Core Values of Clarion University of Pennsylvania
Students, faculty, staff and alumni of Clarion University value:
learning;
accomplishment;
encouragement;
diversity;
civility;
civic engagement;
public higher education.
Approved by the Council of Trustees, Clarion University, February 16, 2012

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General Information
Associate of Science, Respiratory Care Program Overview
Clarion University’s Associate of Science in Respiratory Care degree program prepares
graduates to assume roles as respiratory care practitioners at the advanced level (RRTRegistered Respiratory Therapist). The program affords students the opportunity to attain
a clinical knowledge base in respiratory care as well as a liberal arts education that will
aid in their role and function as health care professionals. Graduates of the program will
be eligible to take the Written Registry Examination and the Clinical Simulation
Examination administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care.
Program Goals and Objectives
Goal: To prepare graduates with demonstrated competencies in the cognitive
(knowledge) psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains of
respiratory care practice as performed by advanced level respiratory therapists.
Objectives:

Upon completion of the program the graduate should demonstrate:

1. The ability to comprehend, apply and evaluate clinical information relevant to
their roles as advanced-level respiratory care practitioners,
2. The technical proficiency in all skills necessary to fulfill their roles as
advanced-level respiratory care practitioners,
3. Professional behavior consistent with employer expectations as advancedlevel respiratory care practitioners.
Institutional Accreditation
Clarion University is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education
3624 Market Street, 2nd Floor West,
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Telephone: (267) 284–5000, E-mail: info@msche.org Spanish: españolinfo@msche.org
Programmatic Accreditation
Clarion University’s respiratory care program holds initial accreditation with the
Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).
1248 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX 76021-4244
Phone 817-283-2835, Fax: 817-354-8519
www.coarc.com
12

Equal Educational Opportunity Statement
It is the policy of Clarion University of Pennsylvania that there shall be equal opportunity
in all of its educational programs, services, and benefits, and there shall be no
discrimination with regard to a student’s or prospective student’s race, color, religion,
sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation/affection, veterans status, or other
classifications that are protected under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972,
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, The Americans with Disabilities Act of
1990, and other pertinent state and federal laws and regulations. Direct equal opportunity
inquiries to Assistant to the President for Social Equity, 207 Carrier Administration
Building, Clarion, PA 16214-1232, (814) 393-2000, http://www.clarion.edu/48940/.
Office of Judicial and Mediation Services
Information about conflict management and resolution may be found on the Office of
Judicial and Mediation Services website at http://www.clarion.edu/1105/. This web page
also provides a link to the Student Rights, Regulations and Procedures Handbook that
addresses many topics such as grade appeals, conduct policies, harassment, and campus
safety. The link to the handbook is as follows: http://www.clarion.edu/51580.pdf.
Resolution of Disputes Related to the Respiratory Care Program
Students wanting to settle disputes related to the respiratory care program should follow
the proper chain of command when seeking to resolve issues or disputes related to the
respiratory care program. First, students should try to resolve the issue with the faculty
member (if applicable). If satisfaction is not realized, the student should contact the
Director of Clinical Education or the Program Director. If satisfaction is not realized, the
student should contact the Department of Allied Health Academic Chair (Renee Bloom).
If satisfaction is not realized, the student should contact the Interim Director of the
School of Nursing and Allied Health (Dr. Shelly Moore). If satisfaction is still not
realized, the student should contact the Executive Dean of Venango College (Dr.
Christopher Reber). If satisfaction is still not realized, the student should contact the
Executive Dean of Venango College (Dr. Christopher Reber). Contact information for
these individuals is listed on Page ii of the introductory section of this handbook.
Confidentiality of Student Records and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy
Act (FERPA)
Information about a respiratory care major’s academic record and academic progress is
not shared with any third party, including parents, spouses, etcetera, unless the student
has specifically identified a person by name as indicated on the student’s release of
information link in MyClarion.
For detailed information concerning confidentiality of student records including access
13

and review of student education records maintained at Clarion University, please go to
http://www.clarion.edu/4947/.
Clinical site progress of students may be discussed by respiratory care faculty with
clinical preceptors and instructors at the clinical site where the student is completing
clinical practicum. No non-clinical academic information is shared with clinical site
personnel.
Campus Safety and Eagle Alerts System
It is the intent of Clarion University to provide a safe learning experience for all students.
The following information provides instructions for maintaining safety for students, staff,
administration, and faculty.
Extreme Emergencies:
Fire: 1) Pull fire alarm in any building by exit doors and then leave building OR
2) Press button on outside “blue light” phones and report fire location.
Serious Injury or Medical Crisis: 1) Dial 911 from any campus phone and
report injury OR 2) Press button on outside “blue light” phones and report injury.
Criminal Activity: 1) Dial 911 from any campus phone and report activity, OR
2) Press button on outside “blue light” phones and report activity.
Facilities Emergencies:
To call Public Safety to locate the security officer or supervisor on duty at
Venango College, call extension 2111 or 814-393-2111.
Venango College Public Safety Office Dave Wilson:
814-676-6591- campus phone number
814-673-0881 - cell
dwilson@clarion.edu
For water escape, electrical outages, hazardous conditions:
8:30 am – 4:30 pm Monday through Friday: Dial extension 1000 from
any campus phone to reach Venango College Switchboard then report
problem.
All other times: Call the Clarion University Boiler House at extension
2394 or 814-393-2394.
Clarion University’s Eagle Alerts System notifies individuals by email, website,
telephone and text message in case of emergency. Notification by text message to a cell14

phone is optional. Students must sign up and provide their cell phone number in order to
be notified. To receive future Eagle Alerts, go to www.clarion.edu/eaglealerts for
instructions. For assistance with Eagle Alerts, contact Clarion’s Computing Services
Help Desk at extension 2640 or via email at helpdesk@clarion.edu.
The Clarion University Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online Handbook
contains information to help protect student safety including information on recognizing
and reporting harassment, description of health risks associated with the use of illicit
drugs and abuse of alcohol; description of drugs and alcohol treatment, rehabilitation
programs, and sanctions; and explanation of sex-offense policies, procedures, and
possible sanctions. http://www.clarion.edu/51580.pdf).
For other information about campus safety, please access the links below.
Campus Police: http://www.clarion.edu/440/
Active Shooter: http://www.clarion.edu/71296/.
Medical Emergencies: http://www.clarion.edu/65177/
Utility Emergencies: http://www.clarion.edu/65067/
Campus Accident Report Form: http://www.clarion.edu/189702/
Safety Referral Form: http://www.clarion.edu/32490/
Office of Social Equity: http://www.clarion.edu/433/
Other Handbook/Resources/References
Besides the Respiratory Care Handbook, respiratory care majors are responsible for
knowing and abiding by the policies and procedures published in other materials
including those listed below. Students may also reference webpages listed below for
additional information about the respiratory care program and Clarion University.
Clarion University Undergraduate Catalog, http://www.clarion.edu/1174/
Clarion University’s Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online
Handbook, http://www.clarion.edu/51580.pdf)
Policies and procedures of clinical sites that the student is attending. Information
and documentation of policies and procedures may be obtained from the clinical
preceptor of the clinical site or by inquiring with the Director of Clinical
education.
Clarion University Respiratory Care web page, www.clarion.edu/7332/
Graduation information, http://www.clarion.edu/6899/#GraduationRequirements.
Student one-stop, http://www.clarion.edu/253/
MyClarion, http://www.clarion.edu/236788/
Office of the Registrar, forms, http://www.clarion.edu/27449/

15

Helpdesk and Computing Services, 814-393-2640, www.helpdesk@clarion.edu,
http://www.clarion.edu/434/
Center for Academic Achievement and Student Support Services
Respiratory care majors are entitled to all student support services afforded to all Clarion
University students. For comprehensive information on the Center for Academic
Achievement and student support services, please visit the following webpage:
http://www.clarion.edu/254/
Venango College Learning Support Center
Respiratory care majors are encouraged to preemptively take advantage of free academic
tutoring and other services offered at the Venango College Learning Support Center
(LSC) that is located at 318A and B of Montgomery Hall. The LSC offers numerous
services that support the academic success of respiratory care majors. Additional
information on the Venango College LSC may be found at the following link:
http://www.clarion.edu/42167/.
Personal Counseling
Respiratory care majors, like other health care majors, sometimes face unique stressors
and challenges - whether academic, social, or personal at both home and school – that can
impede their academic and personal success. Respiratory care majors who are
experiences such challenges are encouraged to seek the free confidential counseling
services at Venango College located at 234 Montgomery Hall. Additional information on
Venango College counseling services may be found via the following link:
http://www.clarion.edu/42167/.
Career Services
Respiratory care majors who desire assistance with resume preparation, job searches,
interviewing, professional etiquette, or who may be considering other majors or careers
may visit the Venango College Career Services Center located at 230 Montgomery Hall.
Additional information on Venango College Career Services Center may be found via the
following link: http://www.clarion.edu/9304/.
Clarion Student Email Accounts and Respcare Listserv
Clarion University students are responsible for reading their Clarion University student
email and for information disseminated via their Clarion University student email even if
the student chooses not to read his/her email messages.
Students are responsible for maintaining their Clarion University email account so that
they are able to receive all messages. Students who encounter problems with their
16

Clarion student email accounts should promptly notify the Clarion University Helpdesk
by calling extension 2460 or emailing helpdesk@clarion.edu.
All respiratory care majors are included on the respcare listserv. The listserv allows
messages to be sent to all respiratory majors by respiratory care faculty, the Allied Health
Chair, Director of the School of Nursing and Allied Health, and the Secretary of the
respiratory care program. Information disseminated via the respcare listserv is essential
to student progression through the program. It is therefore important that students read
messages sent via the respcare listserv, as students are responsible for the information
disseminated on the respcare listerv.
Students who do not think they are receiving messages from the respcare listserv should
contact the School of Nursing and Allied Health at 1-877-VENANGO, extension 1250.

17

Academic Policies
Student Responsibility for Academic Requirements
Provisions in the Clarion University’s Undergraduate Catalog cannot be considered an
irrevocable contract between the university and the student. The university makes every
effort to keep information in the catalog current. It must reserve the right, however, to
amend any academic, administrative, or disciplinary policies or regulations and to update
fees or service charges described in this catalog without prior notice to affected
individuals.
Students are held responsible for reading and understanding the academic, administrative,
and disciplinary policies or regulations and for understanding general education
requirements. They are held responsible for the requirements of a major in effect at the
time they officially declare a major. If students change majors, they are responsible for
the requirements of the major in effect when they officially change majors.
Handbooks and Clinical Affiliate Policies and Procedures
All respiratory care majors will be notified of how to access the electronic version of the
Clarion University Respiratory Care Student Handbook. Students are responsible for
knowing the information disseminated in this handbook as well as other Clarion
University handbooks and the policies and procedures of each of the clinical affiliates for
which they are assigned. Any questions regarding clinical site manuals and policies
should be directed to the clinical preceptor of the clinical site.
Admission Policy
Applicants to Clarion University’s respiratory care program are required to meet the
standard admissions criteria and follow the standard admission process of the University.
Admission to the respiratory care program is also contingent upon vacancy in the
program. Students are admitted to the program via rolling admission until full capacity is
reached. Once the respiratory care program is full for the current year, students will be
admitted to the following year's class if he/she remains qualified. Students may also be
offered to be put on a waiting list for the current year's class.
It is strongly suggested that all students admitted to Clarion University for respiratory
care complete four documented hours of respiratory care career shadowing with a
respiratory therapist in a hospital environment prior to starting the respiratory care
program. Career shadowing appointments may be scheduled through Clarion
University’s Department of Allied Health by calling 814-393-1250. A career shadowing
form should be completed and returned to the Department of Allied Health. Career
shadowing forms may be obtained by calling 1-877-VENANGO, extension 1250.
18

Suggested Possible Prerequisites
Students who do not place into the appropriate math level must take Math 050 prior to
taking a higher math course. For students in need of Math 050, it is suggested that it be
taken prior to starting the respiratory care program in the fall semester. Math 050 cannot
be used to meet the requirements of the respiratory care degree program.
Applicants who have not had one year of high school or college biology with a minimum
grade of “C” or better within the past five years are strongly encouraged to take a basic
biology course such as Clarion’s Basic Biology (BIOL 111) prior to starting the
respiratory care program in the fall semester.
Respiratory Care Program Pre-Clinical Requirements
Students admitted to the respiratory care program must satisfy all pre-clinical
requirements (see Respiratory Care Program Pre-Clinical Requirements section of this
handbook).
Completion of Coursework
All course work for the respiratory care degree program must be completed at Venango
College of Clarion University.
Transfer Students, Advanced Standing, and Prior Work Experience
External transfer students. Students transferring into Clarion’s respiratory care
program must complete a minimum of 30 credits at Venango College of Clarion
University regardless of credits that transfer in. Additional transfer guidelines as outlined
in the Transfer Policy in the Undergraduate Catalog have been established to provide
uniformity of transfer standards.
Transference eligibility of general education credits required for the respiratory care
program will determined by the Office of Admissions in conjunction with the Office of
the Registrar.
Transference eligibility of respiratory care credits earned at a college or university other
than Clarion University (advanced standing) will be determined according to the
following criteria:
Evaluation of respiratory care credits earned elsewhere will be conducted only for
individuals who have made formal application to Clarion University’s respiratory
care program.

19

Evaluation of respiratory care courses completed elsewhere will be considered
only for credits earned in a respiratory care program that is accredited in good
standing by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).
Evaluation of respiratory care credits earned elsewhere will be conducted at the
discretion of the Department of Allied Health chair and respiratory care faculty.
The student must be able to provide any requested documentation of course work
completed elsewhere. Such documentation may include formal transcripts,
formal course descriptions, syllabi, copies of examinations, curriculum plans,
copies of text books, letters of recommendation or verification from former
instructors, or other documentation as deemed necessary by the evaluating
faculty. Inability to provide such documentation to the satisfaction of the
evaluating faculty will result in denial of credit evaluation and credit transfer.
Evaluation of the student’s affective, cognitive, and psychomotor skills relative to
the respiratory care course for which the student is seeking to be awarded transfer
credits may be requested at the discretion of the evaluating faculty. This may
include written examination, oral examination, clinical simulation examination,
and other evaluative mechanisms.
Credit for respiratory care courses completed elsewhere will be awarded only to
individuals who have been formally accepted to Clarion University’s respiratory
care program and who begin the respiratory care program of study in the fall
semester subsequent to the time of acceptance.
Credit granted for respiratory care courses completed elsewhere will be good for a
maximum of two years from the time credit was granted unless determined
otherwise by the Department of Allied Health chair and respiratory care faculty.
Students may be required to re-demonstrate knowledge and proficiency via
written examination, oral examination, clinical simulation examination, and other
evaluative mechanisms. Failure to demonstrate proficiency may preclude the
student from continuing in the respiratory care program.
Free elective credit in respiratory care may be granted for respiratory care credits
earned elsewhere at the discretion of the Allied Health chair for students who do
not meet the aforementioned criteria. All course work required for the respiratory
care program must be completed regardless of whether free elective credit in
respiratory care is awarded.
Credit for prior work in the field of respiratory care will not be accepted in lieu of
required respiratory care courses.

20

Criminal Background Clearances and Eligibility for NBRC Examinations and State
Licensure
Respiratory therapists must practice the profession of respiratory care in a safe and
competent manner. Certain types of criminal activity give cause to question the
individual’s ability to practice in a safe and competent manner and may therefore
preclude the individual from sitting for the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC)
credentialing examinations and also from obtaining a license to practice respiratory care.
The inability to sit for the NBRC exams and obtain licensure will render an individual
unable to practice as a respiratory therapist.
Clarion University does not make decisions about a student’s eligibility to take the
NBRC credentialing examinations or to obtain state licensure. Admission to the
respiratory care program in no way implies that a student is eligible to sit for the NBRC
credentialing examinations or to obtain state licensure. It is the responsibility of the
student to ensure their eligibility to take the NBRC credentialing examination and to
obtain state licensure. Prior to starting the respiratory care program, students with
criminal backgrounds are strongly recommended to do the following:
1. Carefully review the NBRC’s Judicial and Ethics Policies at the following link:
http://www.nbrc.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=J- Rs29_FVyk%3d&tabid=61&mid=479 and

contact the NBRC directly with any questions or concerns.
Carefully review the Application for Licensure as a Respiratory Therapist from the State
Board of Medicine (Pennsylvania) that can be found at the following link:
http://psrc.net/RTLicenseApplication.pdf and contact the State Board of Medicine with any
questions or concerns. Individuals with a criminal background who plan to practice as a

respiratory therapist in states other than Pennsylvania should contact the licensing agency
of the state where the appropriate state.
Admission Information for Current/Former Clarion University Students
Current or former Clarion University students wanting to change their major to
respiratory care must meet the following criteria:
Minimum GPA of 2.0.
Passing grades for all math and science courses that are required of the
major and that have already been completed
Vacancy in the respiratory care program
Completion of Change of Status form or Re-Admit Form
Satisfactory completion of all pre-clinical practicum requirements (see
Respiratory Care Program Pre-Clinical Requirements section of this
handbook)

21

Pre-Respiratory Care Major Status
Pre-respiratory care major status is reserved for students who are on the waiting list for
admission to the respiratory care program or to students who are readmitted to the
respiratory care program for a future date. Respiratory care majors who are dismissed
from the respiratory care program for lack of satisfactory academic progress but who still
have a minimum QPA of 2.0 and who intend to seek readmission to the respiratory care
program may be designated as pre-respiratory care majors. Pre-respiratory care majors
will be assigned a respiratory care academic advisor. Students who hold pre-respiratory
care status are expected to actively be working toward attaining active status as a
respiratory care student and may not hold pre-respiratory care status for more than one
year.
Students who are pre-respiratory care majors whose overall QPA falls below 2.0 will be
changed to undecided status until they reach this minimum GPA goal. Students who do
not qualify for pre-respiratory care status should schedule appointments at the Venango
College Career Services Center (located at 230 Montgomery Hall) and with an academic
advisor for undecided students.
Required Courses and Minimum Grades
Respiratory care majors must earn a minimum grade of “C” in all RESP courses
including all clinical courses. Specific grading criteria are contained on course syllabi.
Passing grades are required for all general education courses. A minimum QPA of 2.0 is
required at all times for all respiratory care majors. Please refer to Appendix B in this
handbook to view the list of courses required for the respiratory care program.
Please refer to the Clarion University Undergraduate Catalog for course descriptions as
well as pre-requisites and co-requisites for courses. The Undergraduate Catalog may be
access via the following link: http://www.clarion.edu/112137/.
How to Address Program Faculty and Personnel
At all times, all students enrolled in the respiratory care program, regardless of age, will
address all Clarion personnel associated with the respiratory care program by using
proper titles of Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms., Professor, Doctor, etcetera, unless specifically told
otherwise by that individual whom the student is addressing. Program personnel include
all respiratory care faculty members, the department chair, secretaries, and the Director of
the School of Nursing and Allied Health.
Clarion University Class Cancellation Notification
The academic calendar for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education requires a
fixed amount of teaching hours and does not allow for snow days.
22

It is the policy of Clarion University to maintain services on a normal basis throughout
the year. In some instances emergencies arise which require the university to determine if
it is prudent and reasonable to offer classes or require employees to report to work. Since
the university is a residential campus, special consideration will always be given to the
fact that a majority of students live on or in close proximity to the campus. This always
requires that the university be certain that regular services, outside of classroom
instruction, are provided for resident students in the event of an emergency. A list of
radio and television stations that are notified in the rare event classes are cancelled or
delayed may be found via the following link: http://www.clarion.edu/130825/.
It should be noted that a cancellation or delay of classes at the main campus of Clarion
University does not necessarily mean that classes at Venango College are also delayed or
cancelled. Information concerning class cancellation at Venango College may be
obtained by dialing 814-676-6591, extension 1200. A recorded message will inform the
caller of the status of class sessions. The message is updated as necessary according to
conditions affecting class meetings.
Semester Breaks and Vacations
The Respiratory Care Program follows the university academic calendar for the fall and
spring semesters that can be found via the following link: http://www.clarion.edu/4930/.
Students should refer to the academic calendar published by Clarion University to
determine exact dates of semester breaks and holidays.
Summer semester for respiratory care majors typically begins one week after
commencement and runs for 12 weeks with a weeklong break in the middle. The Director
of Clinical Education will provide students with a schedule for the summer semester as
early in the academic year as possible. Respiratory care majors will not be excused from
classes or clinical assignments during the summer for vacations. Students are advised to
plan vacations around scheduled time off during summer terms.
Content of Course Syllabi
The syllabus of each respiratory care course (RESP) contains written course descriptions,
content outlines including topics to be presented, specific instructional objectives,
learning outcomes, and evaluation procedures. RESP course syllabi are distributed to
students on the first day of classes in each academic term. Students may be directed to the
course syllabus in electronic format in Desire to Learn (D2L) in lieu of a printed course
syllabus. Access to the course syllabus may also be provided to students in electronic
format instead of paper format.
Requirements for Graduation
Requirements for graduation for respiratory care majors include completion of all
required course work with a minimum grade of C in all RESP courses and an overall
23

minimum QPA of 2.0. Please refer to Appendix B in this handbook to view the list of
courses required for the respiratory care program.
Competencies specific to respiratory care that are required for graduation are
incorporated into respiratory care courses and are identified on each course syllabi. The
requirement that students earn a minimum grade of “C” in all required respiratory care
programs to progress in the program and graduate ensures that all program competencies
are met. (Standard 4.02, page 25).
Additionally, respiratory care majors must have completed a minimum of 30 credits at
Venango College. Additional information on University graduation requirements may be
found via the following link: http://www.clarion.edu/6899/.
Requirements for graduation as well as those for various curricula and degree programs
may change after students matriculate at Clarion. In most instances, such changes will not
be retroactive, although students will have the option to elect to meet the new program
requirements, if desired. Exceptions may be necessary when changes in professional
certification or licensure standards mandate such changes in requirements or programs.
In such circumstances, Clarion University respiratory care majors will be notified via
their Clarion University student email account and the respiratory care listserv.
Withdrawal from Program
Respiratory care majors who intend to withdraw from the program must provide written
notification of the intent to withdraw to the respiratory care program director, director of
clinical education or department chair. The notification must include the effective date of
withdrawal, reason for withdrawal, and student signature. Respiratory care majors who
do not follow this process of withdrawal will be considered to be actively enrolled in the
respiratory care program and the clinical site.
It is the responsibility of the student to notify Clarion’s registrar of withdrawal from any
courses or the university. Students who intend to withdraw from the respiratory care
program should also first consult with Clarion University’s Office of Financial Aid for
information on how withdrawal may impact financial aid in the present or future
academic years.
Appeals and Grievances
Students who wish to appeal grades or have grievances about the respiratory care
program should follow the Grade Appeal Process outlined in Clarion University’s
Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online Handbook,
http://www.clarion.edu/51580.pdf).

24

Retention/Progression Requirements
The retention/progression policy for the Clarion University Associate of Science in
Respiratory Care Program is consistent with that of other two year programs in the
university. Respiratory care courses are sequential and must be taken in order.
To progress or be retained in the respiratory care program, the student must meet the
following requirements.
1. Earn a minimum grade of “C” in all RESP courses
2. Earn a passing in all required science and math courses as follows:
MATH 050 or Math 110 (if needed as a prerequisite course as
demonstrated by math placement exam scores)
MATH 117
BIOL 111 (if taken as a prerequisite course)
BIOL 258
BIOL 259
BIOL 260
PHSC 111
3. Complete all required courses. Please refer to Appendix B in this handbook to view the
list of courses required for the respiratory care program.
4. Attain/maintain a minimum overall QPA of 2.0
A student who does not meet the above standards is dismissed from the respiratory care
program and should refer to the respiratory care dismissal and readmission sections of
this handbook.
If a student earns an unsatisfactory grade in any of the above courses and wishes to be
readmitted to the program, the course must be retaken and passed according to the
aforementioned grading criteria.
Student Academic and Clinical Support for Success/Remediation
The following procedures will be followed for students having academic and/or clinical
difficulty.
1. Students obtaining less than a “C” on any test in a respiratory care course must
sign documentation that their performance did not meet the minimum
requirements of the program. The student is encouraged to also schedule a
meeting with the appropriate faculty member. At any time, a faculty member
may choose to institute a learning contract with a student.

25

2. Students obtaining a score of “1” in any category of the anecdotal/midterm
clinical evaluations must make an appointment to meet with the Director of
Clinical Education within one week to initiate a clinical learning contract that
contains an individualized plan for clinical success and/or referral for help. A
copy of the contract will be given to the student and also to the student’s clinical
site. The original will be maintained by the Director of Clinical Education.
3.

The student is ultimately responsible for monitoring his/her own performance in
all respiratory care courses and for seeking support and remediation.

Dismissal from Program
A student may be dismissed from the respiratory care program for any of the following
reasons:
1. Students who refuse any clinical rotation assignment.
2. Students who attempt to coerce respiratory care faculty relative to clinical
assignments.
3. Students who do not abide by all policies and processes of affiliated clinical site(s) to
which they are assigned, or who exhibit misconduct or negligence at clinical sites at
the discretion of the clinical site.
4. Failure to earn a minimum passing grade in all required math and science courses as
listed above in the retention/progression section of this handbook, and/or failure to
earn a minimal grade of “C” in all RESP courses.
5. Failure to attain a minimum cumulative QPA of 2.0 on a 4.00 scale.
6. Students who refuse substance abuse testing or test positively for illegal substances,
refuse a criminal background check, or have committed certain crimes.
7. Misconduct or disciplinary involvement resulting in dismissal from the
University (see Clarion University’s policy on dismissal from the university in the
Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online Handbook;
http://www.clarion.edu/51580.pdf ).
A student dismissed from Clarion University is also dismissed from the respiratory care
program; however, a student dismissed from the respiratory care program is not
necessarily dismissed from the university. A student who is dismissed from the program
will be informed in person, if possible, and by letter. The student will also be
automatically withdrawn from respiratory care-specific courses. It is the responsibility of
the student to register for additional courses of their choosing or to drop additional
courses of their choosing and to contact the Office of Financial Aid to determine any
26

impact on loans and grants. The student is strongly encouraged to utilize their academic
advisor to assist in problem solving and planning to meet their goals.
Depending on individual circumstances surrounding dismissal from the respiratory care
program, students who are dismissed from the program may have the following options:
1. Continue to take required general education courses and reapply to the respiratory care
program (see readmission section in the respiratory care section of this handbook).
2. Remain at Clarion University and pursue another course of study.
3. Withdraw from Clarion University.
4. Appeal dismissal (See Clarion University’s Student Rights, Regulations, and
Procedures Online Handbook, http://www.clarion.edu/51580.pdf).
Students who withdraw or are dismissed from the respiratory care program must change
their major to another major or to undecided. If a student seeks and is granted
readmission to respiratory care program, he/she will be assigned a pre-respiratory care
major status until readmission occurs. Unless a student qualifies for pre-respiratory care
major status, he/she will be assigned an academic advisor external to the Department of
Allied Health once the change of major status is processed and the student is coded as an
undecided major. Please also see information included under the “Pre-Respiratory Care
Major Status” section of this handbook.
Students who are dismissed from the respiratory care program and who would like to
discuss their dismissal with program faculty must follow the chain of command for
resolving issues in the respiratory care program. The student must first speak with the
instructor of the course, and then, if they so choose, may speak with the Department of
Allied Health Chair, School of Nursing and Allied Health Director, and Executive Dean
of Venango College respectively.
Although being dismissed from the respiratory care program is understandably difficult
for students, students are reminded to conduct themselves in a mature and controlled
manner while speaking to Clarion University faculty, chairs, directors, deans, etcetera,
about their dismissal. Students should not be accusatory, derogatory, or inappropriate.
Begging, pleading, weeping uncontrollably, bargaining, or bribing are not appropriate
approaches when engaged in conversations to resolve issues. Students who experience
undue emotional difficulty or stress related to dismissal from the respiratory care program
are encouraged to visit the Venango College counselor. Information on Venango College
counseling services may be found via the following link:
http://www.clarion.edu/42167/.

27

Readmission to Program
Students who have been dismissed or who have withdrawn from the respiratory care
program may apply for readmission within one year from the date of dismissal or
withdrawal. Readmission to the respiratory program is based on the professional
judgment of the respiratory care faculty and the Department of Allied Health Chair and is
contingent upon multiple factors. Respiratory care faculty and the department chair
evaluate the student’s request for readmission and grant or deny the petition according to
the student’s general academic history, course grades, clinical evaluations and potential
for success.
Additionally, readmission to the respiratory care program is contingent upon space
available in the program in relationship to qualifications of other candidates seeking
admission to the respiratory care program. Students with stronger academic
qualifications will be given preference over students with weaker academic qualifications
including GPA, SAT or ACT scores, and individual course grades with more emphasis
placed on grades in math and science courses. Students who are dismissed from the
program will not be given preference over other candidates because of the dismissed
student’s prior status as a respiratory care major.
.
Students wanting to reapply to the respiratory care program must request readmission in
writing via their Clarion student email and address the reason for the dismissal or
withdrawal and, if applicable, describe measures the student has taken or plans to take to
improve academic performance. The request must be sent to the Department of Allied
Health Academic Chair, Renee Bloom at rbloom@clarion.edu.
The following criteria apply to students who are seeking readmission to the respiratory
care program:
Students who have been dismissed or who have withdrawn from the respiratory
care program for academic reasons must apply for readmission within one year
from the date of dismissal or readmission will be permanently denied.
Students who withdraw from the respiratory care program for non-academic
reasons must apply for readmission within one year from the date of withdrawal.
Students who do not reapply within the one-year period will be considered new
applicants and must meet current admission criteria.
o Students who have been dismissed or who have withdrawn from the
respiratory care program for any reason are NOT guaranteed
readmission. Students who are readmitted are permitted only one
readmission to the respiratory care program.
Only students who have a minimum QPA of 2.0 will be considered for
readmission to the respiratory care program. Students applying for fall
readmission must have a minimum QPA of 2.0 by the end of the Summer III
28

session that immediately proceeds the fall semester for which they seek
readmission. Students applying for spring readmission must have a minimum
QPA of 2.0 by the end of the previous fall session that immediately proceeds the
spring semester for which they seek readmission. QPA’s will not be “rounded
up.”
Students readmitted after being unsuccessful in a respiratory care course and/or
clinical course, must repeat both the theory and clinical course even if the student
did not fail both the theory and clinical course.
Students are sometimes told that they will be considered for readmission to the
respiratory care program at a designated future date with specified contingencies
that must be met within a noted timeframe. Contingencies are made known to
students in writing and are kept on record in the student file.
o Students who meet predefined contingencies are not guaranteed
readmission to the program but instead will be considered at the time of
potential readmission pending vacancy in the program in relationship to
the qualifications of other candidates who wish to be admitted to the
program.
o Students who do not meet predefined contingencies by the designated
timeframe will not be readmitted to the program and are notified in
writing. Failure to meet contingencies constitutes a second dismissal from
the respiratory care program and the student may not reapply in the future.
Students seeking readmission to the respiratory care program after withdrawing for
medical reasons must provide to the Department Chair a signed release from their
attending physician allowing full return to the respiratory care program with no
restrictions. A date of return must be indicated on the release.
Students will be notified in writing via email and/or letter of the faculty decision
regarding readmission.
University Withdrawal, Probation, Suspension, and Dismissal
Students who withdrawal, are suspended, or are dismissed from Clarion University are
also dismissed from the respiratory care program. Detailed information on academic
standing including academic honesty, academic probation and suspension, and course and
university withdrawals may be via the following link: http://www.clarion.edu/956/. The
University withdrawal form may be found via the following link:
http://www.clarion.edu/27449/.

29

Additional information about withdrawals, probation, suspension, and dismissal is
located in the Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online Handbook that may be
found at the following link: http://www.clarion.edu/51580.pdf).
Tuition, Fees, and Other Program Costs
Respiratory care majors will be assessed tuition and fees in the same manner as other
Clarion University students. Information on Clarion University tuition and fees including
billing, payment options, refunds, and other information may be accessed via the
following link: http://www.clarion.edu/37772/.
Similar to other health care educational programs, enrolled students will realize costs
over and above typical tuition and fees that are charged to all Clarion University students.
A list of these estimated costs is included in Appendix C. Please note that costs are
estimated and are subject to change.
Costs incurred by prospective or enrolled respiratory care students are not reimbursable
or refundable by Clarion University.
Students enrolled in the respiratory care program are required to travel to clinical sites.
Significant travel is sometimes involved. Students must have reliable transportation and
the ability to travel to their assigned clinical sites. All travel-related costs are at the
expense of the student.

30

General Advising Information
Students may identify their academic advisor by following the instructions at the
following link: http://www.clarion.edu/240731.pdf.
Students who would like to meet with their academic advisor should email the advisor
and request to schedule an appointment. Advisors who hold office hours are available for
drop in advising to students during posted office hours, but appointments are
recommended.
An academic advisor typically communicates to advisees to inform them of concerns that
the advisor has relative to the student’s academic performance, to offer assistance, and to
inform students of helpful services. However, it is the choice of the student whether to
heed advice given by an academic advisor unless doing so conflicts with policy of
Clarion University, the respiratory care program, or the clinical site that the student is
attending. Likewise, it is the responsibility of the student, not the advisor, to make final
decisions regarding the student’s choices, actions, and behaviors. Additonally, all
students are responsible for knowing the major, degree, and university requirements of
their respective programs.
A variety of helpful information may be found via Clarion’s online Student One Stop
(“SOS”) at http://www.clarion.edu/253/. Clarion’s MyClarion documentation page that
is located at http://www.clarion.edu/240460/ will help students learn to navigate the
MyClarion system and perform a variety of important functions.
Clarion’s registrar’s web page also contains helpful information, forms, and links
including, among other items, the academic calendar, information on the cancellation of
classes at the university, drop/add forms, etc. Students are encouraged to access this
information at the following web address: http://www.clarion.edu/27449/. A QPA
calculator may be found at the following web address: http://www.clarion.edu/84631/.
Several tools are available to students to aid with registration of courses as follows:
Check sheets specific to allied health programs identify courses that students need
for their particular major (may be obtained from the student’s academic advisor)
The Clarion University General Education Guidelines that identify courses that
meet elective requirements: http://www.clarion.edu/42794.pdf
The comprehensive guide for using MyClarion: http://www.clarion.edu/240460/
Clarion’s online Schedule of Classes http://www.clarion.edu/6868/ and
Undergraduate Catalog http://www.clarion.edu/112137/.
The “Student Resources” page on the registrar’s web page should be particularly
helpful to students: http://www.clarion.edu/6874/
The Student One Stop web page: http://www.clarion.edu/253/
31

Additionally, information on how to register for courses is provided at workshops that are
occasionally offered on both campuses in the fall semester as well as in the Explorations
program at Clarion Campus. Students are encouraged to attend these events when they
are offered, as it is expected that students will responsibly assume their role in the
registration process as addressed in the Clarion University Undergraduate Catalog as
follows:
“All students are responsible for knowing the major, degree, and university requirements
of their respective programs.”
Additionally, the following advisor/advisee roles and responsibilities are identified in the
Clarion University Undergraduate Catalog:
Advisor/Advisee Roles and Responsibilities
Advisee should:
1. Keep in touch with advisor
2. Make and keep appointments; email or call if changing an appointment
3. Come to advising appointments with specific questions in mind
4. Ask about other sources of information
5. Be open about academic work, study habits, academic progress, etc.
6. Build a class schedule which meets necessary academic requirements and is
free of time conflicts
7. Make decisions concerning careers, choice of majors, and selection of courses
Advisor should:
1. Teaching faculty should post office hours
2. Keep appointments or call if it is necessary to change or cancel an appointment
2. Provide accurate and specific information
3. Suggest other sources of information
4. Listen and help solve problems
5. Check schedule for appropriate selection of courses
6. Suggest options concerning careers, choice of majors, and selection of courses

Frequently Asked Registration Questions About Advising and Course Registration
Most forms referenced in answer to the following questions may be obtained via the
Office of the Registrar’s web page at http://www.clarion.edu/1103/.
1. Question: How do I know when I’m allowed to register for classes for the
next semester?
Answer: Clarion’s Office of the Registrar will send an email message to your
Clarion student email account reminding you of your date and time for
registration. Your date and time for registration will also be accessible via
32

MyClarion at http://www.clarion.edu/240745.pdf. You are responsible for
checking your MyClarion student account to determine your date and time of
registering.
2. Question: When should I register for classes for the next semester?
Answer: You should register for the next semester’s courses as soon as you are
permitted to do so by the Office of the Registrar (see Question 1). The longer you
wait, the more seats in courses get filled and it gets MUCH harder to get into
courses you need and/or want. Putting off registering for even a few days makes
things harder for you than necessary.
3. Question: Should I make an appointment to see my advisor before I register
for classes?
Answer: Yes, this is a very good idea.. You should schedule an appointment
with your academic advisor BEFORE your scheduled day to register. Keep in
mind that advisor’s schedule fills up quickly during the spring and fall
registration period so schedule advising appointments early.
4. Question: How do I schedule an advising appointment?
Answer: Email your academic advisor to inquire how to schedule an advising
appointment.
5. Question: How do I know what classes I need?
Answer: Courses you will need to take are listed on the respiratory care check
sheet (check sheets may be obtained from your academic advisor). Any course
that is typed on the check sheet indicates that you have no choice but to take that
specific course at some point in time (for example, BIOL 251). Anywhere on the
check sheet that there is a blank line indicates that you have some choice in the
course that you take to meet that particular requirement/elective. Appendix B in
this handbook also identifies the list of courses required for the respiratory care
program.
6. Question: How do I know what course meets a liberal education elective, an
arts and humanities elective, a social and behavioral sciences elective, or a
general elective?
Answer: Please refer to the General Education Requirements document that can
be found at this link: http://www.clarion.edu/42794.pdf.
7. Question: How do I know what a course is about?
Answer: Look up the course in MyClarion (http://www.clarion.edu/240460/) or
in the Clarion University Undergraduate Catalog. You should either have a hard
copy of the catalog, or you may reference the online version of the catalog via the
following link: http://www.clarion.edu/1174/.

33

Once you have accessed the Undergraduate Catalog, look in the index of the
catalog for the page number of the academic department that offers the course that
you want to know about. Go to that page and then start looking for the specific
course. You will see the course description. If the course description doesn’t tell
you enough about the course, please call the academic department that offers the
course. The phone number for the academic department is listed in the catalog on
the academic department’s main page.
8. Question: How do I know if a course has a pre-requisite?
Answer: Pre-requisites are listed with the course description on MyClarion or in
the Undergraduate Catalog (See Question 7). Pre-requisites are typically
identified at the end of the course description.
9. Question: How do I know if a course is being offered?
Answer: You can check if a course is offered via MyClarion
(http://www.clarion.edu/240460/).
Be sure to choose the correct semester and the correct campus. The Schedule of
Classes will come up in a PDF file. You will see the days and times that the
course is offered. Be sure to look at the “class enrollment cap” and “class
enrollment total” to determine if the course is closed.
10. How do I get into a closed course?
Answer: There are a few different options to try, but none are guaranteed. Your
options are as follows:
1.
2.
3.

Email the professor and ask for his/her permission to get into the closed
course
Call the academic department that offers the course and inquire. Ask if there
is a waiting list.
Wait until the drop/add period at Clarion University and try to get into the
course (admission to a course during drop/add is not guaranteed).

11. Question: What if I can’t get into a course that I want?
Answer: You will probably have to choose another course. Or, you could try the
steps outlined in Question 10.
12. Question: What if I can’t get into a course that I need?
Answer: If you need a course and there is no other semester that you think you
will be able to get the course, you should call the academic department that offers
the course and explain your situation and see what they advise. You may need to
speak to the chairperson of the department. The chairperson of the department is
listed in the Undergraduate Catalog on the department’s home page. If neither of
these strategies works, please contact your academic advisor. Students are not
guaranteed seats in courses.
34

13. Question: Does the sequence of my courses matter?
Answer: Sequence does matter. Your academic advisor will advise you each
semester as to the specific courses you will need to register for in the next
semester.
14. Question: What math courses do I need?
Answer: You will need Math 117 (Mathematics for Health Science) and possibly
Math 050* (Basic Algebra) if indicated by your Clarion University math
placement results.
*Math 050 does not count toward the requirements of degree programs at Clarion
University, but is required of students for students who place into the course.
15. Question: What kind of courses should I consider for general and free
electives?
Answer: Please consult with your academic advisor. .
16. What if an elective course that I want conflicts with another course that I
need?
Answer: In most cases, you should not drop an important course that you need so
that you can take an elective course. For example, you would not drop Anatomy
and Physiology because it conflicts with an arts and humanities course - - even if
you need the arts and humanities course as an elective. Please consult with your
advisor in such circumstances.
17. Question: Who will register me for classes?
Answer: After the first fall semester, you will register yourself online via
MyClarion. It’s therefore important that you know how to register for courses.
Please refer to the MyClarion documentation web page at
http://www.clarion.edu/240460/.
18. Question: Why is it a problem to have “holds” on my account?
Answer: Holds on your account will keep you from being able to register for
courses for the next semester. The longer you wait to register for courses, the
more difficult it will be for you to get the courses that you need and/or want.
Some holds are very easy to get removed such as a Personal Information Form
(PIF) hold. This hold may be removed simply by updating your Personal
Information Form. Other holds like financial holds may be more complex and
could take days or weeks or you to resolve. Even if you THINK you don’t have
any holds on your account, check in advance of your scheduled day to register
anyway. To check for holds, please refer to the MyClarion documentation web
page at http://www.clarion.edu/240460/.
35

19. Question: What should I do to prepare for my advising appointment?
Answer:
1. Review the respiratory care check sheet so you know what courses you need
and want for the following semester. (Check sheets may be obtained from your
academic advisor..)
2. Review the Schedule of Courses to make sure those courses are offered in the
next semester and that there are no conflicts of times between the courses you
need/want.
3. Write down your tentative scheduling plan and bring it with you to your
advising appointment.

36

Clinical Policies, Procedures, and Information
Scope of Practice, Ethics, Conduct, Diversity and Tolerance
Clarion University’s respiratory care program adheres to all guidelines set forth by the
American Association of Respiratory Care (AARC). Clarion’s respiratory care program
has therefore adopted the following statements as a matter of policy: The AARC
Statement of Respiratory Care Scope of Practice, Ethics and Professional Conduct
Statement, and Cultural Diversity Statement.
Students are expected to adhere to:
AARC Statement of Respiratory Care Scope of Practice
o Respiratory therapists are health care professionals whose responsibilities include
the diagnostic evaluation, management, education, rehabilitation and care of
patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system. The
scope of practice includes the application of technology and the use of treatment
protocols across all care sites including, but not limited to, the hospital, clinic,
physician’s office, rehabilitation facility, skilled nursing facility and the patient’s
home.
The practice of respiratory care encompasses activities in diagnostic evaluation,
therapy, and education of the patient, family and public. These activities are
supported by education, research and administration.
Diagnostic activities include but are not limited to:
1. Obtaining and analyzing physiological specimens
2. Interpreting physiological data
3. Performing tests and studies of the cardiopulmonary system
4. Performing neurophysiological studies
5. Performing sleep disorder studies
Therapy includes but is not limited to the application and monitoring of the
following:
1. Medical gases and environmental control systems.
2. Mechanical ventilator support
3. Artificial airway care
4. Bronchopulmonary hygiene
5. Pharmacological agents related to respiratory care procedures
6. Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation
7. Hemodynamic cardiovascular support

37

The focus of patient and family education activities is to promote knowledge and
understanding of the disease process, medical therapy and self-help. Public
education activities focus on the promotion of cardiopulmonary wellness.

AARC Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct
o In the conduct of professional activities the Respiratory Therapist shall be
bound by the following ethical and professional principles.
o Respiratory Therapists shall:














Demonstrate behavior that reflects integrity, supports objectivity,
and fosters trust in the profession and its professionals. Actively
maintain and continually improve their professional competence,
and represent it accurately.
Perform only those procedures or functions in which they are
individually competent and which are within the scope of accepted
and responsible practice.
Respect and protect the legal and personal rights of patients they
care for, including the right to informed consent and refusal of
treatment.
Divulge no confidential information regarding any patient or
family unless disclosure is required for responsible performance of
duty, or required by law.
Provide care without discrimination on any basis, with respect for
the rights and dignity of all individuals.
Promote disease prevention and wellness.
Refuse to participate in illegal or unethical acts, and refuse to
conceal illegal, unethical or incompetent acts of others.
Follow sound scientific procedures and ethical principles in
research.
Comply with state or federal laws which govern and relate to their
practice.
Avoid any form of conduct that creates a conflict of interest, and
shall follow the principles of ethical business behavior.
Promote health care delivery through improvement of the access,
efficacy, and cost of patient care.
Encourage and promote appropriate stewardship of resources.

AARC Statement on Cultural Diversity
o The AARC embraces diversity and multi-culturalism in all of its forms and
promotes a professional community established with understanding, respect
and cultural competence. The AARC is enriched by the unique differences
38

found among its diverse members, their patients/clients, and other
stakeholders. The AARC encourages and promotes a culture where personal
and cultural backgrounds are utilized effectively to enhance our profession.
The AARC accomplishes this by:





being sensitive to the professional needs of all members of racial and
ethnic groups,
promoting appreciation for, communication between, and
understanding among people with different beliefs and backgrounds,
promoting diversity education in its professional schools and
continuing education programs, and
recruiting strong leadership candidates from under-represented groups
for leadership and mentoring programs.

Privacy and Confidentiality of Patient Information
Respiratory care students receive formal instruction on the Health Insurance Portability
and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) prior to clinical site assignment. Students are
expected to fully comply with HIPAA policy from the time of formal instruction
throughout the remainder of the respiratory care program.
Technical Standards
Technical Standards/Essential Functional Abilities Requirement
In addition to being admitted to Clarion University by meeting academic standards,
applicants to the respiratory care program must also meet technical standards. Technical
standards are the physical, cognitive, and behavioral requirements of the respiratory care
program’s curriculum and reflect the essential functional abilities necessary to practice as
a safe and effective respiratory therapist.
Broad technical standards required of respiratory care majors include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Think critically, with sound judgment, emotional stability, maturity, empathy, and
physical and mental stamina.
Learn and function in a wide variety of large and small didactic and clinical
settings.
Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, using appropriate
grammar, spelling, and vocabulary.
Immediately comprehend and respond to auditory instructions or requests.
Think clearly and act calmly and effectively in stressful and rapidly changing
situations.
Perform up to a 12-hour clinical experience in a single 24-hour period.
Work cooperatively, preserving relationships with other members of the health
care team.
39

8.

Establish and maintain appropriate and professional emotional and interpersonal
boundaries.
9. Perform fine and gross motor skills with both hands.
10. Apply adequate pressure to stop bleeding.
11. Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
*Specific technical standards required of respiratory care majors include:
Gross Motor Skills
Move within confined spaces
Sit and maintain balance
Stand and maintain balance
Reach above shoulders (e.g., IV poles)
Reach below waist (e.g., plug electrical appliance into wall outlets)
Fine Motor Skills
Pick up objects with hands
Grasp small objects with hands (e.g., IV tubing, pencil)
Write with pen or pencil
Key/type (e.g., use a computer)
Pinch/pick or otherwise work with fingers (e.g., manipulate a syringe)
Twist (e.g., turn objects/knobs using hands)
Squeeze with finger (e.g., eye dropper)
Physical Endurance
Stand (e.g., at client side during surgical or therapeutic procedure)
Sustain repetitive movements (e.g., CPR)
Maintain physical tolerance (e.g., work entire shift)
Physical Strength
Push and pull 25 pounds (e.g., position patients)
Support 25 pounds of weight (e.g., ambulate patient)
Lift 25 pounds (e.g., pick up a child, transfer patient)
Move light objects weighing up to 10 pounds (e.g., IV poles)
Move heavy objects weighing from 11 to 50 pounds
Carry and move supplies and equipment (e.eg - ventilators and suctions machines)
Use upper body strength (e.g., perform CPR, physically restrain a patient)
Squeeze with hands (e.g., operate fire extinguisher)

40

Mobility
Twist
Bend
Stoop/squat
Move quickly (e.g., response to an emergency)
Climb (e.g., ladders/stools/stairs)
Walk
Hearing
Hear normal speaking level sounds (e.g., person-to-person report)
Hear faint voices
Hear faint body sounds (e.g., blood pressure sounds, assess placement of tubes)
Hear in situations when not able to see lips (e.g., when masks are used)
Hear auditory alarms (e.g., monitors, fire alarms, call bells)
Visual
See objects up to 20 inches away (e.g., information on a computer screen, skin
conditions)
See objects up to 20 feet away (e.g., patient in a room)
See objects more than 20 feet away (e.g., patient at end of hall)
Use depth perception
Use peripheral vision
Distinguish color (e.g., color codes on supplies, charts, bed)
Distinguish color intensity (e.g., flushed skin, skin paleness)
Tactile
Feel vibrations (e.g., palpate pulses)
Detect temperature (e.g., skin, solutions)
Feel differences in surface characteristics (e.g., skin turgor, rashes)
Feel differences in sizes, shapes (e.g., palpate aretery, identify body landmarks)
Detect environmental temperature (e.g., check for drafts)
Smell
Detect odors from patient (e.g., foul smelling drainage, alcohol breath, etc.)
Detect smoke
Detect gases or noxious smells
Reading
Read and understand written documents (e.g., policies, protocols)
41

Arithmetic Competence
Read and understand columns of writing (flow sheet, charts)
Read digital displays
Read graphic printouts (e.g., EKG)
Calibrate equipment
Convert numbers to and/or from the Metric System
Read graphs (e.g., vital sign sheets)
Tell time
Measure time (e.g., count duration of contractions, etc.)
Count rates (e.g., drips/minute, pulse)
Use measuring tools (e.g., thermometer)
Read measurement marks (e.g., measurement tapes, scales, etc.)
Add, subtract, multiply, and/or divide whole numbers
Compute fractions (e.g., medication dosages)
Use a calculator
Write numbers in records
Emotional Stability
Establish therapeutic boundaries
Provide client with emotional support
Adapt to changing environment/stress
Deal with the unexpected (e.g., patient going bad, crisis)
Focus attention on task
Monitor own emotions
Perform multiple responsibilities concurrently
Handle strong emotions (e.g., grief )
Analytical Thinking
Transfer knowledge from one situation to another
Process information
Evaluate outcomes
Problem solve
Prioritize tasks
Use long-term memory
Use short-term memory
Critical Thinking
Identify cause-effect relationships
Plan/control activities for others
Synthesize knowledge and skills
Sequence information
42

Interpersonal Skills
Negotiate interpersonal conflict
Respect differences in patients
Establish rapport with patients
Establish rapport with co-workers
Communication Skills
Teach (e.g., patient/family about health care)
Explain procedures
Give oral reports (e.g., report on patient's condition to others)
Interact with others (e.g., health care workers)
Speak on the telephone
Influence people
Direct activities of others
Convey information through writing (e.g., progress notes)
*Obtained from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc., Chicago, IL.
Individuals wishing to major in respiratory care at Venango College of Clarion must be
able to perform all aforementioned essential functional abilities with or without
reasonable accommodations. Individuals with a documented disability that precludes
them from performing any of the essential functional abilities must determine if
reasonable accommodation can be provided.
To request an accommodation, please contact the Venango College Director of Student
Affairs, Emily Aubele, by calling 1-877-VENANGO, extension 1270 or via email at
eaubele@clarion.edu and present written documentation of your disability. Students
must request accommodations in writing prior to application to the respiratory care
program. The University is not required to alter the nature or requirements of the
respiratory care program for reasonable accommodations that place an undue burden on
the university or program.
If a respiratory care major’s health changes while enrolled in the respiratory care program
so that the essential functions cannot be met with or without reasonable accommodations,
the student must withdraw from the respiratory care program but may pursue another
course of study at Clarion University.
Pre-Clinical Requirements
Students must meet all physical requirements of a clinical site prior to attending a clinical
site. As such, pre-clinical requirements must be satisfied by the first day of the spring
semester of the freshman year. All pre-clinical requirements are at the student’s expense
and are as follows:
43

Satisfactory physical examination (see paragraph about physical exam below)
Child abuse history clearance
Satisfactory results of a screening for illegal drug use
FBI fingerprinting and criminal background clearance
Current Basic Life Support for Health Care Provider (CPR) certification by the
American Heart Association
Documentation of health insurance during clinical rotations
Documentation of the purchase of an individual malpractice insurance policy in the
amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) for each claim and three million
dollars ($3,000,000.00) in the aggregate (at student’s expense). The cost of this 2year policy is currently under $100 but is subject to change.
Pre-clinical requirements are subject to change. Refusal to comply with or failure to meet
all of the criteria by the first day of the spring semester deadline may result in dismissal
from the respiratory care program. Only students who have met the above criteria and
have completed all science and general education requirements will be permitted to start
the respiratory care clinical practicum. Clinical education typically begins in May.
Students who have been readmitted to the respiratory care program will have to repeat all
pre-clinical requirements unless specifically told otherwise by the Director of Clinical
Education. This decision by the Director of Clinical Education to waive the obligation
for a readmitted student to repeat pre-clinical requirements will be made on an
individualized basis.
Any costs incurred to meet the pre-clinical practicum requirements of the respiratory care
program are non-refundable even if a student is dismissed from the program.
Physical Examination. The physical exam must be documented on the Report of
Medical History and Physical Examination Form and must be signed and dated by a
medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, certified registered nurse practitioner or a
physician’s assistant. The physical examination may not be completed more than three
months prior to the first day of the first spring semester. The Report of Medical History
and Physical Examination Form is available at the School of Nursing and Allied Health
Office or from the Director of Clinical Education.
The physical examination includes a record of immunity to a number of
diseases/conditions as demonstrated on the Report of Medical History and Physical
Examination Form. Additionally, students must show proof being free of illicit drugs.
Other requirements of the physical examination may be added as necessary. The
physical examination cannot be completed more than three months prior to the first day
of the spring semester when pre-clinical requirements are due. A physical exam form
may be obtained from the School of Nursing and Allied Health Office.

44

Student Travel and Transportation
Throughout the 24-month respiratory care program, students will be assigned to home and
specialty clinical rotations at affiliated clinical sites in the region. Students are required to
have reliable transportation to each clinical site and are responsible for all expenses related
to travel and attending clinical rotations.
Health Care Insurance and Health Care Expenses
Respiratory care majors are required to have health care insurance at all times while in
the clinical portion of the respiratory care program. At any point in time, students may be
asked to provide formal documentation of current health care insurance if asked.
Students unable to provide formal documentation of health care insurance upon request
may be dismissed from the respiratory care program.
Clarion University and respiratory care clinical affiliates have no responsibility for
students’ health care expenses including any expenses associated with clinical
assignments. Any health related expenses incurred during the course of clinical training
are the responsibility of the student.
Clinical Assignments
Assignment of students to clinical sites is made by the Director of Clinical Education.
Student preference for assignment to clinical sites cannot be considered. Students are
forbidden to try to coerce in any manner the Director of Clinical Education relative to
clinical assignment. Clinical site assignment will not be changed. Students who refuse
clinical assignments will be unable to complete their clinical courses and will therefore
receive a failing grade in the course that will result in dismissal from the respiratory care
program.
While at an assigned clinical site, respiratory care majors will follow all policies and
procedures of the clinical site and Clarion University and will display professional,
courteous, respectful, and appropriate behavior to all individuals at all times.
Inappropriate or negligent behavior, as deemed so by the clinical site or Clarion
University respiratory care faculty, may result in immediate removal from the clinical site
and dismissal from the respiratory care program.
Orientation to Clinical Site Policy/Procedure Manuals
Within two weeks after their first clinical assignment, students are required to familiarize
themselves with policy and procedure manuals of the home clinical site to which they are
assigned. Questions regarding these manuals must be directed to the clinical preceptor of
the clinical site.
In addition, all students will undergo an orientation program provided by the home
45

clinical site to which they are assigned. This orientation shall provide the student with
policies and procedures specific to the clinical site including occupational health and
safety, emergency conditions and response, incident-reporting, corporate compliance,
information management, and other pertinent materials.
The Director of Clinical Education will provide the student with a packet of pertinent
information once clinical sites have been assigned. Because each clinical site has
different requirements, students will be provided with information specific to the
particular clinical site to which he/she is assigned. The student will be required to
complete the Clinical Orientation Acknowledgement Form and return it to the Director of
Clinical Education within three weeks of the beginning of the student’s home clinical
practicum assignment. The form must also be signed by the clinical preceptor. (Please
see Appendix D for the Clinical Orientation Acknowledgement Form.)
Personal Appearance, Uniform, and Dress Code Policies
While on clinical assignments, students will represent Clarion University’s respiratory
care program with pride and responsibility. Appearance reflects greatly on the quality of
care, professionalism, and a spirit of service and respect. The dress, grooming, and
overall personal appearance of each student help create this environment. Accordingly,
students are expected to be neat, clean, and properly groomed in a manner that is safe and
appropriate for the health care setting and to reflect a high level of professionalism,
competence, and caring.
Students must follow the clinical dress code and uniform policies (see below). Failure to
adhere to the dress code, to practice good hygiene, and to behave in a professional
manner may result in the student being dismissed from their clinical assignment for the
day at the discretion of the clinical preceptor and/or the Director of Clinical Education.
Students who are dismissed from their clinical assignment for any of the aforementioned
reasons must notify the Director of Education and must make up the missed clinical day.
Uniform Policy
The student will at all times wear:
Navy blue scrub top and pants uniform with Clarion University Respiratory Care
patch on left shoulder
Name tag/ identification
White lab jacket (optional). All lab jackets will have the Clarion University
Respiratory Care patch on left shoulder
Stethoscope with bell and diaphragm
Pen
Watch with second hand
Socks
White shoes or sneakers
Notepad
46

Dress Code:
At all times, clothing is to be clean, neatly maintained, free of wrinkles and stains,
and in good repair.
Personal cleanliness and hygiene is expected on a daily basis including but not
limited to oral hygiene and use of deodorants.
Avoidance of scented products such as cologne, perfume, body lotion, hair spray,
soaps in order to protect patients with sensitivities or allergic reactions. If a
student smells of smoke, the student will be sent home and will receive an
unexcused absence.
No gum chewing or use of tobacco products.
Hair must be clean and neat at all times. It must be secured to keep away from
face and should not come into contact with patients. Facial hair must be neatly
trimmed and clean.
Fingernails must be trimmed and free from visible dirt. No artificial nails are
permitted. Polish must be neat and professional.
Jewelry: no facial/body (including tongue, lip, and eyebrow) piercing may be
visible with the exception of post earrings. No loose jewelry that may dangle or
snag and cause a hazard.
Tattoos must be covered so to not be visible.
Socks and shoes must be clean. Shoes must be closed-toe. White uniform shoes
or sneakers may be worn.
Addressing Clinical Personnel and Patients
At all times, all students enrolled in the respiratory care program, regardless of age, will
address all patients over the age of 18 by using proper titles of Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms.,
Sister, Father, Professor, Doctor, etcetera unless told otherwise by the individual whom
the patient is addressing. Under no circumstances will students address adult patients
using terms of endearment such as “sweetheart, dear, honey, darling, etcetera.”
Additionally, all students enrolled in the Program personnel respiratory care program,
regardless of age, will address all clinical personnel by using proper titles of Mr., Mrs.,
Miss, Ms., Sister, Father, Professor, Doctor, etcetera, unless told otherwise by the
individual whom the patient is addressing.
Cell Phones, Wireless Devices, and Electronic Devices
With the exception of a cell phone, students are not permitted to have any other personal
electronic devices including but not limited to i-pads, tablets, pagers, etc, at assigned
clinical sites. Students may not carry cell phones on their person in the clinical
environment, but must instead turn them completely off and store them.
Students may use cell phones at clinical sites ONLY during their personal time such as
scheduled lunches and breaks. Students should be considerate of others when using cell
47

phones during their personal time and find a private area to hold conversations in a
discreet manner.
Student Objectives for Professional Behavior
In addition to offering a transition from theory to application of skills, a purpose of
clinical education is to teach the student the importance of acceptable work habits and
appropriate professional guest relations as a member of a health care team. Students who
are achieving professional growth will demonstrate certain observable characteristics
desirable in a health care professional.
I. Organizational skills
plans ahead
conducts procedures systematically and smoothly
establishes priorities in sequence
maintains a clean, orderly, safe work environment
comes to the clinic prepared (has clinical log, pens, name badge, etc.)
II. Relationships with staff and peers
maintains open communication, coordinates the day's activities, asks
questions, communicates effectively
receptive and responsive to constructive criticisms and suggestions
willing to assume full share of work and responsibility
willing to work with others harmoniously
recognizes chain-of-command
strives to be pleasant and amicable
maintains co-workers confidentiality and respect; refrains from gossiping
III. Relationships with patients
communicates appropriately, effectively, and gives undivided attention to
patient
provides patient with information about procedures; answers patient’s
questions
attempts to demonstrate empathy or concern for patient's emotional and
physical well-being
provides patient with a safe and clean environment
refers to patient using correct title and surname; uses patient’s first name
only upon patient request
refrains from discussing personal or social activities when performing
exams on patients or within ear-shot of patient areas
safely guards patient's personal property while in the department and
while performing mobile procedures
treats patient with respect
demonstrates professional behavior at all times
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IV. Flexibility
makes appropriate choices in stressful or unusual situations
maintains control of actions at all times
willing and capable of working with all personality types in the health care
setting
demonstrates sound critical thinking in response to atypical scenarios
willing to help as needed
V. Initiative
willingly seeks out responsibilities and tasks without persistent prodding
shows interest in learning and trying new procedures
committed to learning the practice of respiratory care
offers assistance to other staff members in performance of respiratory care
duties
makes effective use of times when patient volume is down
VI. Policy Compliance
Complies with all program policies as outlined in this handbook, the
Respiratory Care Student Handbook, all Clarion University Handbooks,
and all policies and procedures of the clinical sites to which the student is
assigned.
Affective Criteria
Respiratory care students are expected to conduct themselves in the following manner at
all times while in the clinical setting:
Function safely, effectively, and calmly under stressful situations
Maintain composure while managing multiple tasks simultaneously
Prioritize multiple tasks
Exhibit social skills necessary to interact effectively with patients, families,
supervisors, and co-workers of the same of different cultures such as respect,
politeness, tact, collaborations, teamwork and discretion
Maintain personal hygiene consistent with close personal contact associated with
patient care
Display attitudes/actions consistent with the ethical standards of the profession.
Students will undergo evaluation of the aforementioned criteria twice each semester
during clinical practicum rotations. Evaluation of these criteria serves to assess the
professional conduct of the student while in the clinical setting. Evaluation of affective
criteria is performed by the respiratory care director/supervisors with input from all
clinical staff.
49

Misconduct, Negligent Behavior and Resultant Dismissal from Clinical Site and/or
Program
In accordance with the policies and procedures of clinical sites with which Clarion
University affiliates for the respiratory care program, disciplinary action may be taken
against students for acting in a manner that, by generally accepted standards of behavior,
is viewed as inappropriate.
The following is a list of behaviors that may result in immediate dismissal from a
clinical site and from the respiratory care program, as deemed inappropriate by the
clinical site preceptor, Director of Clinical Education, or by Clarion University
respiratory care faculty, Department Chair, or Director of the School of Nursing and
Allied Health.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Intoxication or drinking on hospital premises
Erratic, inappropriate, questionable, suspicious, or unprofessional behavior
Overt threats or acts of personal violence or possession of weapons
Unauthorized use or sale of illegal substances
Gambling on hospital premises
Participating in any activity that could or does lead to disruption of the care of
patients
7. Dishonesty such as stealing, cheating or deliberate falsification of records
8. Divulging confidential information of patients, fellow students, technologists,
and employees, or by failing to adhere to a patient’s rights with regards to their
Protected Healthcare Information as defined by HIPAA.
9. Sleeping or the appearance of sleeping during education hours
10. Immoral conduct
11. Insubordination, including refusal to accept appropriate assignments from
clinical personnel or use of profane or obscene language toward anyone in
public or private conversations.
12. Disorderly conduct on hospital premises
13. Discriminatory actions, attitudes, language, or behavior
14. Any grossly negligent, careless, or willful act that could result in personal injury
or personal damage
Clinical sites reserve the right to conduct random, on-the-spot screenings for illegal
substances or alcohol of students assigned to the clinical facility. Students who test
positively for illegal substances or alcohol will be dismissed immediately from the
clinical site and risk permanent dismissal from the clinical site and from the respiratory
care program.
Clinical Site Policies and Property
The clinical preceptor or Director of Clinical Education reserves the right to send a
student home if the student breaches any hospital-specific policies or procedures. Should
50

the clinical preceptor decide to send a student home, the preceptor will notify the Director
of Clinical Education, a clinical Incident Report Form (Appendix F) will be completed,
and disciplinary action will ensue. Students sent home for this purpose will be required
to make up missed clinical time.
All students borrowing reference material from any hospital library or in possession of
any hospital property shall assume total and final responsibility for the condition, return,
and replacement of the material or property.
Clinical sites reserve the right to refuse to permit any student to use their facility for
clinical practicum. Students who are dismissed from a clinical site risk dismissal from
the respiratory care program.
Clinical Documentation
Falsification of documentation will automatically result in dismissal from the clinical
assignment and may result in dismissal from the respiratory care program. The Director
of Clinical Education will be notified of such incidences and a clinical incident report
will be completed.
Falsification includes, but is not limited to the following: charting a procedure on a
patient that was not performed, charting prior to performing the procedure, falsifying
information, or forging the Clinical Instructor’s signature on clinical paperwork.
Clinical Attendance/Tardiness
Attendance at clinical sites is an essential component of the student’s clinical education.
Therefore it is imperative that the student must be in his/her assigned clinical area and
prepared for instruction at the scheduled time.
Clinical Absence. If a student will be absent from clinical or at any required clinically
related activity due to illness or unavoidable emergency, it is his/her responsibility to
follow the proper procedure as follows:
1. Report the absence to the clinical preceptor at the clinical site at least 30
minutes prior to the start time scheduled for the clinical assignment.
2. Notify the Director of Clinical Education at least 30 minutes prior to the
start time scheduled for the clinical assignment.
3. Log into DataArc and document a SICK DAY at least 30 minutes prior to
the start time scheduled for the clinical assignment..
If the proper procedure is not followed for reporting clinical absences, it will be recorded
on a Clinical Incident Form and will be considered an unexcused absence.
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All absences will be made up prior to the semester’s completion. It is the student’s
responsibility to reschedule any missed clinical time at the convenience of the clinical
preceptor and notify the Director of Clinical Education. Failure to complete all required
clinical time may result in a failing grade and dismissal from the respiratory care
program.
Tardiness. It is equally important that a student be punctual for clinical assignments.
Arriving late is disruptive to the clinical site’s ability to provide patient care and reflects
poorly on the student and the respiratory care program. Late is defined as arriving at
the clinical site 10 minutes passed the scheduled time.
If the student finds he/she will be late, they must notify the clinical preceptor
immediately. Once the student notifies the preceptor, they must be present at the clinical
site within 60 minutes of the scheduled time of clinical. If the student does not notify the
preceptor in advance of being late, he/she will be sent home if more than 30 minutes late
and the entire day must be made up. It is preferred that missed clinical time due to
lateness be made up that day based on availability of the clinical preceptor.
If a student must leave a clinical assignment early due to illness or emergency, they must
consult with the clinical preceptor and notify the Director of Clinical Education prior to
leaving.
All missed clinical time must be made up prior to the end of the semester in consultation
with the Director of Clinical Education. Clinical time that is not made up prior to the
end of the semester will result in a grade of incomplete or failing at the discretion of the
Director of Clinical Education.
Bereavement
Students will be granted an excused three day leave from clinical practicum if a death
occurs in the student’s immediate family. Immediate family includes a parent, stepparent, parent-in-law, spouse, child, stepchild, brother, sister, guardian, or daughter/sonin-law.
Students will be granted a one day leave from clinical practicum if a death occurs in the
student’s extended family. Extended family includes a grandparent, aunt, uncle,
brother/sister- in-law, niece, or nephew.
Excused bereavement time will not be granted for any other individual not identified
above.
Bereavement leave may be taken any time between the day of death and the funeral.
Students will not be granted bereavement leave for funerals or associated events that
occur during vacation time, holidays, weekends or other time off in which the student has
no clinical educational obligations.
52

A formal obituary from an established newspaper is required as proof of death for all
bereavement absences. Students must speak with the Director of Clinical Education prior
to missing clinical practicum due to bereavement.
Absences from respiratory care courses due to bereavement is at the discretion of the
course instructor. It is the prerogative of the course instructor whether to allow make up
exams or assignments for bereavement absences. Students should speak with the
instructor prior to being absent for bereavement.
All missed clinical days for bereavement, whether for immediate or extended family,
must be made up prior to the end of the semester in which bereavement absences
occurred. Missed days will be made up at a time that is suitable to the student's clinical
site and with the prior approval of the Director of Clinical Education.
Missed Clinical Time
In the event of an unexpected prolonged absence such as serious illness or military
deployment, the Director of Clinical Education must be notified as soon as possible.
Students who are absent for three or more consecutive days due to illness must provide
written documentation from their physician or medical facility verifying illness and
readiness to return to their clinical assignment.
Inclement Weather and Clinical Assignments
Individuals in the health care professions are faced with whether-related travel decisions
frequently and in most cases are expected to arrive to work safely. Likewise, the health
care student, first and foremost, must be safe and needs to make their own decision
regarding traveling to clinical sites in inclement weather. It is impossible to establish
one policy which governs all clinical sites because weather conditions can change rapidly
and can differ considerably in various geographical areas.
If it is known ahead of time that Clarion University – Venango College is closed, all
clinical experiences are cancelled and shall be made up on a future date under the
direction of the Director of Clinical Education before the end of a semester. The closing
of the main campus of Clarion University in Clarion does not indicate that Venango
College will be closed.
If a student has already arrived at a clinical experience prior to formal cancellation of
classes at Venango College, the student and the Director of Clinical Education shall
jointly decide whether the student should remain at the clinical site or to return home.
In the event that the Director of Clinical Education makes the decision to cancel a clinical
experience or a student does not attend a clinical assignment because of weather, the
student is responsible to make up the missed clinical time. Missed clinical time must be
made up before the end of the semester in which clinical time was missed and must be
scheduled in advance with the Director of Clinical Education and the clinical site. The
53

Director of Clinical Education will coordinate and verify make up times with the clinical
site.
Whether or not inclement weather forces the University to cancel classes at either
campus, a student’s safety depends on his/her decision of whether local conditions allow
safe travel. It is the student’s responsibility to communicate with their instructors in the
case of absences or tardiness. If a student believes that inclement weather will not allow
them to travel safely to an off-campus clinical site assignment they must contact, prior to
their clinical start time, the Director of Clinical Education, as well as the clinical
preceptor of the clinical site where they were supposed to report for the day.
Absence of Clinical Preceptor
In the event that a clinical preceptor is absent when the student is present at their clinical
site, the student, the student must immediately notify the Director of Clinical Education.
With the guidance of the Director of Clinical Education, the student will be assigned to
another therapist who will serve as the student’s preceptor for that day. If no such
assignment can be made, the student will be sent home, given an excused absence for that
clinical day, and will not be required to make up the day.
Effective Use of Clinical Downtime
Clinical downtime may occasionally occur while students are on clinical assignment.
Students are expected to effectively use clinical downtime for further self-directed
learning of respiratory care knowledge and skills.
Students are not permitted, however, to excuse themselves from hands-on clinical
learning opportunities because of the desire to complete assignments, study for
examinations, etc.
Physician Interaction Policy
Students should seek out physician interaction whenever possible to develop ease in
approaching physicians as well as for learning opportunities. A point system has been
created to encourage this effort. Students must earn a total of 20 points per semester
starting with the Fall semester of the second year. The scoring system is listed below:
TYPE A: Patient Focused
Individual, personal interaction with a physician relating to the management of a
particular patient as it pertains to respiratory care. Included are actual procedures with
a patient (for example, code blue, bronchoscopy, etc.) Also included are such activities as
evaluations, diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis of a singular patient. The interaction
may also include discussion of indications, contraindications, and hazards associated with
prescribed therapeutic procedures and medication for a singular patient.
54

TYPE B: Tutorial
Individual one-on-one instruction related to clinical medicine or other areas pertinent to
respiratory care. Included are activities such as formal or informal discussions, review of
research or recent advances in respiratory care, and practical demonstration of procedures
or equipment without patient interaction.
TYPE C: Small Group
Formal or informal presentations such as in-service, seminars, continuing education
meetings, case presentations, physician’s rounds, etc. It is necessary for the presentation
to be small enough for the physician conducting the session to be aware of who is in
attendance.
TYPE D: Large Group
Formal educational experiences such as lectures or papers presented at professional
meetings, conferences, seminars, etc. The size of the meeting would preclude significant
audience participation.
Scoring is as follows:
TYPE A
TYPE B
TYPE C
TYPE D

1 HOUR = 4 POINTS
1 HOUR = 3 POINTS
1 HOUR = 2 POINTS
1 HOUR = 1 POINT

Physician interaction records are to be submitted to the Director of Clinical Education or
Clinical Instructor within the clinical notebook in a designated section unless specified
otherwise.
Clinical Safety Procedures
Blood borne pathogen precautions:
The following policy is based upon the guidelines distributed by the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, Public Health Service, and U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services.
Standard Precautions Education – Students are taught standard precautions prior to
attending their first clinical practicum rotation. Students may also access current
information about standard precautions via the CDC Hotline (1-800-342-AIDS) or via the
web at www.cdc.gov .
Prevention of HIV Transmission - The School of Nursing and Allied Health follows the
guidelines prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (January, 1994;
August 3, 2000). When the clinical agency in which the student is affiliating has a policy
that is more restrictive than the standard precautions, the student shall follow the
55

institution’s policy. The students shall always, at minimum adhere to the standard
precautions.
Patient Care (Compliance Required) – Respiratory care students cannot refuse to follow
standard precaution guidelines. Respiratory care students cannot refuse to care for those
with HIV/AIDS disease.
Confidentiality - This policy adheres to the Confidentiality of HIV-Related Information
Act (February 27, 1991) which protects individuals from inappropriate disclosure and
subsequent misuse of confidential HIV-Related information. The confidentiality of HIVrelated information will be protected, as is the case for all health-related information.
Testing records are kept separate from academic or employment files.
Exposure - Standard precautions are designed to reduce the risk of disease transmission
in the health care setting. Students, faculty or staff who believe themselves to be at risk
for HIV antibody have an obligation to be tested and receive pre-post counseling. It is
the individual’s responsibility to pay for these health services.
Standard Precautions
Standard Precautions aim to reduce the risk of disease transmission in the health care
setting, even when the source of infection is not known. Standard Precautions are
designed for use with all patients who present in the health care setting and apply to:
Blood and most body fluids whether or not they contain blood
Broken skin
Mucous membranes
To reduce the risk of disease transmission in the health care setting, the School of
Nursing and Allied Health requires the use of the following Standard Precautions:
1.

Wash hand immediately with soap and water before and after examining patients
and after any contact with blood, body fluids and contaminated items – whether or
not gloves were worn. Soap containing an antimicrobial agent is recommended.

2.

Wear clean, ordinary thin gloves anytime there is contact with blood, body fluids,
mucous membrane and broken skin. Change gloves between tasks or procedures on
the same patient. Before going to another patient, remove gloves promptly and
wash hands immediately, and then put on new gloves.

3.

Wear a mask, protective eyewear and gown during any patient-care activity when
splashes or sprays of body fluid are likely. Remove the soiled gown as soon as
possible and wash hands.

4.

Handle needles and other sharp instruments safely. Do not recap needles. Make
sure contaminated equipment is not reused with another patient until it has been
56

cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized properly. Dispose of non-reusable needles,
syringes, and other sharp patient-care instruments in puncture-resistant containers.
5.

Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces including beds, bed rails,
patient examination tables and bedside tables.

6.

Clean and disinfect soiled linens and launder them safely. Avoid direct contact
with items soiled with blood and body fluids.

7.

Place a patient whose blood or body fluids are likely to contaminate surfaces or
other patients in an isolation room or area.

8.

Minimize the use of invasive procedures to avoid the potential for injury and
accidental exposure. Use oral rather than injectable medications whenever possible.

When a specific diagnosis is made, find out how the disease is transmitted. Use
precautions according to the transmission risk.
If airborne transmission:
1.

Place the patient in an isolation room that is not air-conditioned or where air is not
circulated to the rest of the health facility. Make sure the room has a door that can
be closed.

2.

Wear a HEPA or other biosafety mask when working with the patient and in the
patient’s room.

3.

Limit movement of the patient from the room to other areas. Place a surgical mask
on the patient who must be moved.

If droplet transmission:
1.

Place the patient in an isolation room.

2.

Wear a HEPA or other biosafety mask when working with the patient.

3.

Limit movement of the patient from the room to other areas. If patient must be
moved, place a surgical mask on the patient.

If contact transmission:
1.

Place the patient in an isolation room and limit access.

2.

Wear gloves during contact with patient and with infectious body fluids or
contaminated items. Reinforce hand washing throughout the health care facility.
57

3.

Wear two layers of protective clothing.

4.

Limit movement of the patient from the room to other areas.

5.

Avoid sharing equipment between patients. Designate equipment for each patient,
if supplies allow. If sharing equipment is unavoidable, clean and disinfect it before
use with the next patient.

Source: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/spb/mnpages/vhfmanual/annex1.pdf
Incident Protocol
An “incident” is defined as any happening related to student performance which is not
consistent with the educational practices of the respiratory care program, or one in which
the safety of an individual is jeopardized.
Should an accident or incident occur to a student while in a clinical setting, the student is
responsible for completing the following procedure:
Report the incident as soon as possible to the Director of Clinical Education and
clinical preceptor.
Complete proper documentation required by the clinical site, as advised by the
clinical preceptor.
Seek medical assistance if required. (Medical treatment is at student’s expense.)
Report to any additional authorities as required.
Seek follow up treatment as recommended.
Complete Clarion University Incident Report Form
The Incident Report Form is in Appendix F of this handbook and is also available in the
School of Nursing and Allied Health Office or from the Director of Clinical Education.
The student is to fill out the form and return it to the Director of Clinical Education. The
following procedures will apply:
1. The Director of Clinical Education will hold a conference with the student
concerning the incident and then complete the required portion of the Incident
Report Form.
2. The Director of Clinical Education will inform the Program Director and the
Chair of the Department of Allied Health of the incident and a determination will
be made as to the action to be taken. If deemed necessary, the student will be
instructed to make an appointment to meet with the Chair of the Department of
Allied Health. After meeting with the student, the Chair of the Department of
Allied Health will add to the Incident Report Form as appropriate.
3. The Director of Clinical Education, Program Director, and Chair of the
58

Department of Allied Health will evaluate the situation as to whether further
action is necessary.
4. Referral to the Director of the School of Nursing and Allied Health is at the
discretion of the Chair of the Department of Allied Health.
5. If further action is needed the incident will be taken before the Department of
Allied Health Faculty Organization for a decision on the matter.
6. Incident Report Forms are retained by Clarion University’s Department of Allied
Health in the student file..
7. This incident report procedure is for Clarion University purposes and is separate
from any requirements for reporting of the clinical site, The clinical preceptor
will advise the student of the proper reporting procedures required by the clinical
site.
Clinical Evaluation Process
Students are held responsible for knowing and ensuring that they satisfy all clinical
requirements of the respiratory care program.
The student’s progression toward clinical competence will be formally evaluated in the
laboratory setting first. Upon successful demonstration of skill, the student can perform that
skill in the clinical setting under direct supervision. Direct supervision is defined as having a
clinical preceptor immediately accessible in the same room as the student. Once the student
is competent, successful demonstration of mastery is evaluated in the clinical setting. If the
student demonstrates mastery, they may perform that skill without direct supervision.
Laboratory Evaluation. This is a pre-clinical evaluation. Following adequate instruction
and practice for a procedure, the student’s performance will be evaluated in the laboratory
setting. The student must complete instructor check-offs. It is the responsibility of the
student to be prepared for the evaluation session. The student is not permitted to practice a
procedure in the clinical setting until he/she has passed the performance evaluation in the
laboratory.
Clinical Evaluation. The clinical evaluation process consists of evaluation of the student’s
performance of a procedure in the clinical setting. It’s the student’s responsibility to practice
clinical skills until confident enough to pass a check-off with the clinical preceptor. The
student is encouraged to ask the clinical preceptor for feedback as they are practicing
clinical skills, but the preceptor will not approach the student to complete a clinical skill
check-off. The student must complete all required check-offs for a clinical skill before they
can be proceed to the formal clinical evaluation with a clinical preceptor.

59

When the student feels confident in his/her ability to perform the clinical skill competently,
he/she should schedule the clinical evaluation with the preceptor. The clinical preceptor
may refuse to evaluate a student if the preceptor is not confident in the student’s ability to
perform the clinical skill competently. However, a clinical preceptor’s willingness to
conduct a clinical evaluation for a student should not be construed as the clinical preceptor’s
endorsement that the student will be successful in the clinical evaluation. Please see
Appendix E for the Clinical Evaluation Form.
The Instructor/Evaluator Role. The instructor must perform at least two different roles.
These roles involve clinical instruction and evaluation. Clinical instructors provide direct
clinical supervision and facilitate learning. As evaluators, the role of the instructor is
significantly reduced. Therefore, when the student has scheduled an evaluation session, it is
assumed that the student can perform a procedure without assistance of any kind. If it
becomes necessary for the evaluator to intervene, either to safeguard the patient’s welfare or
to expedite completion of the procedure, the evaluation session must be repeated after the
student has had further practice.
The Student’s Role. Before each formal evaluation session, the student should do the
following:
Review the steps of the appropriate competency
Meet with the instructor to discuss any points of confusion.
Review the patient’s medical record.
Ensure that all necessary equipment is readily available.
Be prepared to accept constructive criticism.
Student Substitution for Paid Staff
The purpose of the clinical practicum assignment is so respiratory care students can
practice and sharpen their required respiratory care competencies. Under no
circumstances are students to be substituted for clinical, instructional, or administrative
staff at clinical sites or in didactic or lab courses.
Students who meet established criteria may be chosen to assist faculty members in the
laboratory environment, but student assistants do not have instructional primacy or
authority.
Breaks and Meals
Breaks and meals during clinical assignments are taken according to the policy at the
clinical site and in coordination with the clinical preceptor. Students typically utilize the
same dining and lounge facilities as the staff of the assigned clinical site.

60

Parking
Clarion University respiratory care majors must follow the parking policies and
guidelines of all clinical sites to which they are assigned. Parking expenses are the
responsibility of the student.
Information about parking at clinical sites is available as follows:
UMPC Passavant- students will use off-site parking with UPMC Passavant shuttle
service to the hospital.
UPMC Northwest: employee lot
Meadville Medical Center: student will be issued permit for employee lot on Liberty St.
Clarion Hospital: park at end of lot on upper level
Rainbow Babies: student can purchase a visitor pass (approximately $20) that is good for
10 days or park free at distant lot and take a shuttle to the hospital.
Butler Hospital: employee garage
Armstrong County Memorial Hospital: employee parking
Dubois Medical center: across street at top of hill
Heritage Valley, Sewickly Hospital – Students will be issued a pass to park in the
hospital’s parking garage for a nominal fee.
For information about parking for clinical sites that are not listed above, please see the
Director of Clinical Education or the preceptor of the clinical site.
Clinical Site Safety and Emergency Response Plans
While at their assigned clinical practicum site, students will follow the safety protocols of
the clinical site as provided to students during their clinical site orientation. Students will
follow protocols for all safety matters including, but not limited to Standard Precautions;
body mechanics; combative patients; safe handling of substances (material safety data
sheets); electrical, fire and other safety precautions related to the physical plant; bomb
threats; active shooter emergencies; and other safety matters as identified at clinical site
orientation.
All students will follow the instructions of the clinical preceptor or the respiratory care
clinical supervisor in situations related to the facility’s emergency response plan. In all
cases, the student must notify the Director of Clinical education of the situation
immediately after the student’s safety has been assured.
Clinical time that is missed because of emergency responses will be made up by the
student at the convenience of the clinical preceptor and with prior approval of the
Director of Clinical Education.

61

Gratuities
Many times what students do for patients is perceived by the patient as being above and
beyond the call of duty. The patient and/or their family may feel grateful and wish to
reward the student. Because the service that health care professionals provide is part of
their jobs, students are not permitted to accept gifts or tips of any types from patients and
their families Students may instead suggest to patients and families that instead of gifts or
tips, written letters of commendation about the student’s performance be sent to Clarion
University’s Director of Clinical Education.
Conduct at External Events
Respiratory care students attending external respiratory care events such as professional
conferences, workshops, and conventions are representatives of Clarion University. As
such, students are expected to conduct themselves at all times in a professional, discreet,
and respectful manner while attending the event and also during their related stay in a
hotel/motel. Public intoxication; erratic, inappropriate, violent, immoral, or
unprofessional behavior, language, and actions; disorderly conduct; absence from or
sleeping during scheduled event activities; smelling of alcohol; and other offensive
behaviors or language are grounds for disciplinary action including loss of future
privileges to attend such events or dismissal from the respiratory care program.
Employment at Clinical Settings
Respiratory care students may establish an employment relationship with clinical sites
where they attend clinical practicum or with other affiliated or non-affiliated clinical
sites. The work for pay relationship is completely devoid of Clarion University oversight
or involvement. While the student is working, the student is an employee of the clinical
site subject to all policies and procedures established by the clinical site. While working,
the student will in no way engage in any form of educational activity related to the
Clarion University respiratory care program. The student may not perform competency
check-offs, practice procedures, evaluations, or other activity required for Clarion’s
respiratory care program. The student may not represent his/her work for pay activities
as activity related to the Clarion University respiratory care program.
Conversely, while respiratory care student are completing their clinical practicum
assignments, they may not accept payment or gratuities of any kind for educational
activities or time spent at the clinical site.

62

Appendix A
Respiratory Care Student Handbook
Acknowledgment Form
I have read the contents of the Respiratory Care Student Handbook and had the
opportunity to ask questions. I agree to abide by all program and clinical policies as
outlined in this and other department and university handbooks.
I understand that in addition to the cost of tuition and fees related to Clarion University’s
respiratory care program, I will incur other related costs. Such costs include but are not
limited to travel to clinical sites, parking at clinical sites, lodging at distance clinical sites,
meals at clinical sites, uniforms, etc.
I also acknowledge that violation of these policies may result in disciplinary action,
including dismissal from the respiratory care program.
Changes to any of the policies contained in this handbook may become necessary, as
deemed necessary by the Department of Allied Health.
STUDENT’S NAME (please print): _________________________________________
STUDENT’S SIGNATURE:_______________________________________________
DATE:__________________________________

63

Appendix B
Associate of Science, Respiratory Care
Curriculum Plan Example*
First Semester (Fall I)
BIOL 251 & 261 Human Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab 4
PHSC 111
Physical Science Chemistry
Math 117
Mathematics for Health Science Majors
AH 201
Intro to the Healthcare Environment
AH 101
Medical Terminology
Semester Total
Second Semester (Spring I)
BIOL 252 & 262
RESP 101
BIOL 260
ENG 111
PSY 211
Semester Total

Human Anatomy & Physiology II
Introduction to Respiratory Care
Microbiology
Writing II
General Psychology

Third Semester (Summer I)
RESP 102
RESP 121:
RESP 201
RESP 202
RESP 203
Semester Total

Intermediate Respiratory Care
Clinical Application of Resp Care I
Cardiopulmonary A&P
Cardiopulmonary Pathophysiology
Cardiopulmonary Pharmacology

Fourth Semester (Fall II)
RESP 204
RESP 205
RESP 206
RESP 220
Semester Total

Mechanical Ventilation & Critical Care II
Neonatal & Pediatric Respiratory Care
Clinical Application of Respiratory Care III

Sixth Semester (Summer II)
RESP 209
Advanced Cardiac Life Support Prep
RESP 210
Advanced Clinical Concepts
RESP 211
Case Studies – Clinical Simulations
RESP 222
Clinical Application of Respiratory Care IV
Semester Total

3
3
2
3
15

Credits
with Lab 4
3
3
3
3
16

Credits
Advanced Respiratory Care
Mechanical Ventilation & Critical Care I
Selected Topics in Respiratory Care
Clinical Application of Respiratory Care II

Fifth Semester (Spring II)
RESP 207
RESP 208
RESP 221
Semester Total

Credits

Credits
3
2
3
2
2
12

3
3
3
3
12
Credits
4
3
5
12
Credits
2
3
2
5
12

TOTAL CREDITS = 79
*Curriculum subject to change.

64

Appendix C
Respiratory Care Program Estimated Costs*
Malpractice insurance for 2 years
AHA Healthcare Provider CPR
Fingerprinting and background clearances
(including the state of Ohio in the second year)
Subscription to electronic clinical database
Respiratory supplies lab kit
Physical examination
o 10 panel Drug Screen
o 2-step TB Testing
Scrubs (2 sets)
Stethoscope
ACLS
Health Insurance
Transportation to clinical sites and parking

$68.00
$50.00
$100.00
$75.00
$120.00
price set by student’s medical provider of choice
price set by student’s medical provider /laboratory of choice
price set by student’s medical provider of choice
$40.00
$50.00
$80.00
price set by health insurance provider

*Please note that costs identified above do not include costs of tuition, fees, books, meals, living expenses, etc.
While care has been taken to identify all costs associated with the respiratory care program that are not related to tuition, fees, living
expenses, etc, there may be random costs that have not been identified on the above list.
Costs identified above are estimates and are subject to change without notice. Some costs may be covered by the respiratory care
club, but this is not guaranteed.

65

Appendix D
Venango College of Clarion University
Associate of Science Degree Program in Respiratory Care
Clinical Site Student Orientation Acknowledgement Form

I have completed orientation at the home clinical site to which I have been assigned and
have had the opportunity to ask questions of the clinical preceptor or other clinical site
personnel as well as the Director of Education.

Home Clinical Site: ______________________________________________________
Student’s Name (please print): _____________________________________________
Student’s Signature:______________________________________________________

Date:__________________________________

************************************************************************

Name of Clinical Preceptor (please print): ___________________________________

Signature of Clinical Preceptor:____________________________________________

Date:_________________________________

66

APPENDIX E
Venango College of Clarion
University
Clinical
Evaluation
Venango
College
of Clarion
University Clinical Evaluation
Student__________________________
Student__________________________
Scale:

3 – Exceptional

Date:________________
Date:________________

2 – Satisfactory 1– Unsatisfactory

N/O– Not Observed

Knowledge
3
Demonstrates superior
understanding of concepts,
facts and theories specific to
the situation

2
Demonstrates a general
knowledge of concepts,
facts and theories specific
to the situation

1
Demonstrates little or no
understanding of the concepts,
facts and theories related to the
specific situation

N/O
Not observed

2
Carries out the skill
without significant error
and meets the accepted
standards most of the time.
Requires occasional
assistance.

1
Cannot perform the skill or is
in danger of harming the
patient. Needs constant
assistance.

N/O
Not observed

2
Rarely absent but informs
appropriate personnel; is
seldom or unprepared, but
notifies appropriate
personnel

1
Absent repeatedly and neglects
to inform appropriate
personnel; is frequently late
and unprepared

N/O
Not observed

Psychomotor/Hands On Ability
3 o
Can perform the skill with
confidence, without error and
greatly exceeding standards.
Seldom requires assistance.

Dependability
3
Never absent, always arrives
on time and prepared

Self-Direction and responsibility for his/her actions
3
Is self-directed and works
responsibly

2
1
Needs normal amount of
supervision and usually
accepts responsibility

N/O
Requires frequent or constant
supervision and has difficulty
assuming responsibility

Not observed

Efficient Planning and Time Management
3
Plans ahead, always works
efficiently and manages time
wisely

2
Completes assigned
tasks, needs occasional
direction

1
Inconsistent or rarely
completes tasks, needs
significant help and direction
in prioritizing work

N/O

1
Has difficulty collecting and
communicating appropriate
information; fails to maintain
confidentiality

N/O
Not observed

Oral Communication Skills
3
Always communicates in a
concise manner; relating
appropriate and complete
information; maintains
confidentiality

2
Usually communicates in a
thorough manner; ensures
confidentiality

Appropriately interacts with patients (courteous, thoughtful, empathetic, displays patience, and
non-judgmental).
3
Always demonstrates respect,
sensitivity and consideration
for others, consistently
anticipates and attends to
patient's and family's needs for
comfort and help

2
Usually concerned for
and supportive of others,
reasonably aware of and
attentive to patient's and
family's needs for
comfort and help

1
Seldom shows concern or
interest in others, inconsistent in
attending to patient's and
family's needs for comfort and
help

N/O
Not observed

67

Scale:

3 – Exceptional

2 – Satisfactory 2 – Unsatisfactory

N/O– Not Observed

Accepts supervision and works effectively with supervisory personnel (accepts constructive criticism and
guidance
3
Always seeks constructive
feedback, accepts guidance, and
changes behavior for personal
improvement

2
Usually accepts guidance or
direction, frequently improves
behavior

1
Rarely accepts guidance or
direction, is defensive or
argumentative and unwilling to
change behavior

N/O
Not observed

Confidence in abilities, Exercises good judgment and maintains composure in stressful situations
3
Self –confident, always seeks
assistance when appropriate,
respects professional boundaries
and remains calm in stressful
situations

2
Recognizes
limitations the
majority of the
time, occasionally
seeks assistance
when necessary,
acts appropriately in
stressful situations

1
Doesn’t know when to seek
assistance, oversteps professional
boundaries and makes inappropriate
decisions that are harmful to patient
care

N/O
Not observed

Conducts himself/herself in an ethical and professional manner (displays integrity, sincere and applies
discretion).
3
Always exhibits concern for the
dignity and welfare of patients
and team members; prevents
conflict of interest; always takes
measures to deal with conflict
effectively

2
Generally displays
concern for dignity
and welfare of
patients and team
members; avoids
conflict of interest;
and recognizes
conflicts as they
arise

1
Is negligent or inconsiderate of
patients or team members dignity or
welfare; or demonstrates conflict of
interest; or provokes conflict

N/O
Not observed

Participates in educational activities that enhance clinical performance.
3

2

1

Readily initiates learning
activities and participates
willingly in learning activities

Participates
willingly in learning
activities

Participates only if prompted or with
encouragement from preceptor

N/O

Comments: (Overall comments and comments specific to any rating of exceptional or unsatisfactory)

Directions: It is to the student’s benefit if you are as honest and constructive as
possible. Comments and examples are highly valued. If you feel that the student
deserves an exceptional or unsatisfactory rating in any category, please include specific
comments so that we may either recognize the student or create an action plan to
maximize his/her potential.
Please fax completed evaluation to:
Chris Harancher, DCE Respiratory Care Program
814-676-0251

68

APPENDIX F
CLARION UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
SCHOOL OF NURSING AND ALLIED HEALTH
INCIDENT REPORT FORM
An incident is any happening related to student performance, which is not consistent with
the educational practices of the Respiratory Care Program, or one in which the safety of
the individual is jeopardized.
Date of Incident:________________________
Student:________________________________
Level of
Student:________________________Educator:_______________________________
DESCRIPTION OF INCIDENT –By the Student

Signature:____________________________________
DESCRIPTION OF INCIDENT – By the Faculty Member

Signature: ___________________________________

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INCIDENT REPORT FORM, CONTINUED
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